Serious hikers, do you want an experience that lasts a lifetime? No amount of gorgeous photos will ever replace traversing the beautiful trails for yourself. Here are some treks you’d definitely want to hike before it’s too late.
Inca Trail
Ok, this trek is surely on everyone’s bucket list. And for good reason too: its grand majestic trails, coupled with historic ruins attract flocks of visitors year after year. There are a variety of trails to choose from, the most popular being the one that leads to Machu Picchu. You will be able to see lots of jungles, lakes, the Incan tambo of Runkuraway, and the ruins of Patallacta on this trail.
This trek is not for the faint hearted. This hike will take at least a few days to complete, though there is the option of doing a one day trek. Also, remember that the trail is closed in February and you need to book in advance, as they only allow a maximum of 500 people (including guides) per day.
The Narrows
Zion National Park in southern Utah is home to some of the most awe-inspiring scenery in the world. Hiking 1400 feet down beyond Angels Landing will get you to The Narrows. The trail itself is about 26 km (16 miles), with the river as the hiking route. You’d probably spend more than half you time wading or swimming through the Virgin River. There are little grottoes and hanging gardens you can hang around at if you want to take a more leisurely pace.
You can choose to hike the trail in one day, or spend a night at one of the park’s campgrounds.
John Muir Trail
John Muir is well-known for helping to save many areas in the US, including Sequioa National Park. Because he also founded the Sierra Club and was devoted to all things to do with nature conservation, obviously there would be a trail dedicated to him. The 346 km (215 mile) long trail starts at Yosemite National Park, and ends at Mount Whitney. Expect to pass through a few national parks while on the trail. You will most likely be able to see glaciers, forests, fields, lakes, and even a few animals (be careful!) while trekking. If you choose to hike the whole trail at once, it should take you about a week. You also have the option to break the hike into small segments, since it is divided that way.
Pakistan’s Baltoro Glacier and K2
This impressive ice-based hike takes to the K2 peak. It is the world’s second highest peak at 28,251 feet. It starts off as icy rivers, then leads into the interior of the glacier before finishing off at granite mountains, including Uli Biaho. This trail takes about 15 days, so it’s definitely not for the faint hearted. You can choose to take side trips around the trail if you still want to experience a part of it.