Staying indoors for many days, we may not realize that the world has transitioned from the gloomy season to the vibrant and colorful spring season.
Luckily, there are still some places where we can go without worrying about exposure to the wind or crowds - places where backpackers can experience breathtaking scenery. Here are some of the world's most visited hiking trails:
1. West Coast Trail, Canada
The West Coast Trail, located on the southwest end of Vancouver Island, BC, Canada, is considered the most spectacular and beautiful trail, and it's also highly admired by North American hiking enthusiasts.
The trail is home to ancient nature, covered in thick moss and ancient vines, with waves lapping up the shore, breathtaking cascading waterfalls, sandy beaches, petroglyphs, shipwreck ruins, and more.
While exploring this route, sea lions and bald eagles can be good friends, and there is a great chance of seeing whales and bears. There are many beautiful camping sites to choose from along the way, with the most famous one being the camp by Tsusiat Falls.
2. Skyline Trail, Alberta
The Wilderness Trail in Jasper National Park begins at Maligne Lake and climbs 1,410 meters. The trail passes by glaciers, glacial lakes, and spectacular ridgelines. Camp at one of the six campsites on the trail or stay at the Shovel Pass Lodge, which offers freshly cooked food and comfortable rooms. Here, you'll meet many like-minded backpackers.
3. Overland Track, Australia
Named one of the top 10 hiking trails in the world by Lonely Planet and National Geographic, the Overland Track is located in Tasmania, Australia, which is the closest place in the world to the South Pole. It starts in Tasmania's Cradle Mountain National Park and ends in Lake St Clair National Park, running north to south for 65 kilometers through the heart of Tasmania's World Heritage-listed wilderness.
The track typically takes six to seven days to complete and passes through steep mountains, temperate rainforests, rivers, plains, and bogs, crossing Mount Ossa, Tasmania's highest mountain, and Lake St Clair, Australia's deepest lake.
4. The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, Peru
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, one of the seven wonders of the world, is considered the most famous hiking trail on the entire planet. Beginning at an altitude of 2,800 meters and making its way to the mysterious Inca city in the sky at an altitude of 4,200 meters, this is an extraordinary cultural journey and a life-changing experience.
Surrounded by tropical jungle and cascading mountains, the area is serene, soothing, and lazy. Standing on the edge of the cliffs at the top of the mountain, you'll have a breathtaking view of the vertical cliffs of the Urubamba River, which drops 600 meters. The mountain's natural environment is well-protected, and with a daily limit of 500 climbers, you'll be able to see herds of alpacas on the way.
5. Torres del Paine Circuit, Chile
From Punta Arenas, the southernmost city in the world, the 83 km-long Torres del Paine offers an unparalleled visual feast. During ten days of wilderness hiking, you'll marvel at the 3,000-meter-high granite peaks that rise straight up from the Pacific Ocean.
You'll also see herds of grazing camels, ethereal blue glacial lakes, and breezy plains. Enjoy a carefree hike and get lost in these magnificent landscapes.