World’s Best Hikes

One of the things that I like about hiking is that you don’t need to be doing the “best” hike in the world to be having a good time. You get to be out in nature with people you care about, enjoying any one of the varied landscapes our planet has to offer. Whether it’s walking in rural Vermont’s rolling hills or trekking in Mount Everest, at the core of it, we’re all just having a good time in the great outdoors.

That being said… there is something kind of fun about hiking a route that is undeniably iconic or world-renowned. So in this blog, we’re going to talk about just that – those hikes that leave you breathless (in more ways than one) and keep you thinking and talking about them for years to come.

The Inca Trail, Peru

Most people, when they think of Peru, immediately think of Machu Picchu. Nestled in the heart of the Andes, hikers from around the world take the famous Inca Trail to reach it. This trail is lined with ancient stones and stairs and takes hikers to the Sun Gate, most visitors’ first view of Machu Picchu. Make sure to get a few photos before continuing along the trail to the UNESCO World Heritage Historic Sanctuary and archaeological site.

Experience this hike for yourself on our Peru Walking & Hiking Tour!

Laguna de los Tres, Patagonia, Argentina

Patagonia is known for some of the most breathtaking hiking in the entire world. It’s a hiker’s paradise and Laguna de los Tres is one of our favorites.

This hike has everything that you want out of a challenging ascent: stunning views of Mount Fitz Roy and De las Vueltas River as you climb; altering terrain ranging from flat open landscapes to loose gravel switchbacks; and, of course, a rewarding summit. At the top, you’ll find yourself at Lago de los Tres. Meaning “Lake of Three” in English, this lagoon gets its name from the mountains that tower over it – Mount Fitz Roy, Cerro Torre and Mount Poincenot. Marvel at De los Tres Glacier, have a snack, then carefully make your way back down the switchbacks to El Chaltén.

Interested in making the climb? Experience it on our Patagonia Walking & Hiking Tour!

Tour du Mont Blanc, France, Italy & Switzerland

Europe's crown jewel of long-distance hiking, the Tour du Mont Blanc weaves through three countries—France, Italy and Switzerland. Encircling the iconic Mont Blanc, this trail takes hikers along alpine meadows, through quaint villages and to extraordinary panoramic vistas. On our Italian, French & Swiss Alps Lodge-to-Lodge Hiking Tour, you’ll be able to experience Mont Blanc in all of its glory, including hiking hand-selected portions of the Tour du Mont Blanc trail.

Explore these epic hikes and so much more with Backroads. Browse our hiking trips around the world today and find your perfect adventure!