Maggie CarlstromFor many, travel is a way to escape. A way to lift the stresses of life right up off of your shoulders and take in the surroundings of a new place. When people go through the heartbreaks in life there is no better comfort than a camera in hand, up in the sky, knowing in a few hours you will be touching down somewhere new.
Something I personally enjoy doing while exploring a new place, is seeing the offline parts of the world. The places that lack wi-fi but provide you with a true connection.
A breath of fresh air accompanied with a view to die for. I’m talking about embracing your outdoorsy side – even if you’re not one for trekking up a mountain – sometimes it can be worth it.
In these seven destinations for hikers… it is totally worth it.
The Grand Canyon
Words cannot describe the feeling upon first glance at the Grand Canyon. Now imagine you get to adventure through it!
Specifically, I’m talking about the Rim to Rim hike. You do need to be trained properly, studied it a bit and have the right gear to do the entire thing.
But a kicker for those who just want a taste; you can hike as much or as little as you want! Just turn around when you think you’ve had enough (but remember it takes at least 1.5 times longer on the way back up than down.)
Location: Arizona, USA
Length: 24 miles one way
Best time to go: May – October
Bay of Fires
The Bay of Fires runs down the northeastern coast of Tasmania. It is a series of blinding white beaches, with beautiful turquoise waters and orange-glowing rock formations. The only downfall is you have to go with a guided group – but what better way to make friends and
Location: Tasmania, Australia
Length: 16 Miles
Best time to go: October – May
The Trek to Petra
A hike through low gorges and over high ridges, through the deserts of Jordan. There are sculpted sandstone canyons all leading to the Nabataean city of Petra, which is bound to take your breathe away.
It is one of the top destinations for hikers to spend a week of their time.
Location: Jordan
Length: 50 Miles
Best time to go: October – April
Everest Base Camp Trek
Of course we’ve all heard of “climbing Mount Everest.” Well you can see the highest point on the earth during this trek, and if that’s not worth it than I don’t know what is!
Along with the beautiful views, you can experiences the cultures and people who live in the area.
Location: Nepal
Length: 70 Miles
Best time to go: March to May or September to November
Laugavegurinn/Fimmvörðuháls Pass
This hike is truly all of the chapters of a fairytale packed into one. Rhyolite mountains, frozen rivers, and volcanic terrain comprise this route – which some say is not an easy one.
A plus with this hike is that Iceland has been named one of the safest places to travel alone to; although you should not hike it alone!
Location: Iceland
Length: 50 Miles
Best time to go: June to September
Mountains of the Moon
I had to include some destinations for hikers that had animals involved! Not only will you get the chance to spot some elephants and African wildlife, but you’ll also get to see the highest peaks of Africa. Win, win!
Location: Uganda
Length: 38 Miles
Best time to go: December to March
The Torres del Paine “W” Circuit
This hike is one through Chile’s national park of Torres del Paine. Glaciers, rock formations, hills and gorgeous all on a path that is the shape of a “W”. This one is sure to take your breath away!
Location: Patagonia, Chile
Length: 37 Miles
Best time to go: October to May
