7 Travel Destinations Every Hiker Needs on Their Bucket List

If the hiking bug has bitten you and you’ve fallen head over heels in love with trekking earthly terrain, odds are likely that you’re itching to see what else the world has in store beyond the confines of your zip code, state, or country.

Whether you’re a novice hiker or a seasoned one, your ever-growing list of trails to hike and sights to see should include these following world wonders. Beyond these destinations’ outstanding trails, lovers of food, culture, and people are bound to adore every moment spent in these hiking hotspots.

1. Salt Lake City, Utah

Why we love it: Salt Lake City is a city almost entirely designed for those in need of a city that offers extraordinarily stunning natural scenery and a city scene brimming with culture and history.

Outdoorsy folks are bound to fall in love with all the possibilities for camping, golfing, swimming, skiing, and canoeing, and more all abound. City folks can experience the downtown atmosphere and cram in all the shopping, entertainment, and eating they have on their travel to-do list. It’s the perfect balance all tied up in one beautiful city. 

Trails to hike: Ogden Waterfall Hike, Cecret Lake Trail, and Ensign Peak.

2. Cape Town, South Africa

Why we love it: Cape Town has gained a well-deserved reputation for being a bustling destination for explorers and hikers alike. Located just beneath South Africa’s famed Table Mountain, Cape Town has become one of the hottest spots for hikers to traverse land and water to visit.

Trails to hike: Lion’s Head, Platteklip Gorge Trail, and Maclear’s Beacon.

3. Bern, Switzerland

Why we love it: Bern— the capital city of Switzerland— has long been praised by hikers for its spectacular natural beauty you simply have to see to believe. You can navigate trails of all difficulty levels easily when visiting Bern, so whether you’re a beginner hiker or have years of experience behind you, the perfect trail for you is just a Google search away. Here you can find other best cities in Switzerland.

Trails to hike: Alte Schwarzwasserbrücke Loop, The Eiger Trail, and Schynige Platte Panorama Trail.

4. Seattle, Washington

Why we love it: When you think of the Pacific Northwest, chances are you’ll think of the quintessential PNW city of Seattle. This Washington state hub is among the most popular U.S. destinations for hikers all across the globe. For all twelve months in the year, Seattle is home to some of the most stunning wildlife refuges and lined with a multitude of spectacular hiking trails that lead to waterfalls, mountaintop views, lakes, and so much more.

Pro-tip: be sure to pack a pair of waterproof hiking shoes if you plan to visit during the fall— muddy season will leave your shoes a total mess.

Trails to hike: Rattlesnake Ridge, Twin Falls, and Mount Pilchuck.

5. Portland, Oregon

Why we love it: Located just south of Seattle, Portland serves up a serious plate of hiker’s delight. Known for its unparalleled beauty, it’s truly no wonder why Portland is home to the largest urban hiking trail in the entire world. Enjoy hundreds of miles of hiking in the Portland area and surrounding areas, hiking trails, with amazing views of the city and countryside.

Trails to hike: Hoyt Arboretum, Iron Mountain Trail, and Powell Butte.

6. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Why we love it: Heralded as one of the most colorful cities in the world, Rio de Janeiro is one of the most surprising hiker destinations to make it on our list. Brazil is known for many things, but as of late, the hiking scene has become the talk of this South American country. 

While you won’t want to skip the hike up to the world-famous statue of Christ the Redeemer, do venture the paths less traveled by immersing yourself into Rio’s finest trails and treks.

Trails to hike: Pedra Telegrafo, Pedra da Gávea, and Morro da Urca.

7. Big Island, Hawaii

Why we love it: Big Island is undoubtedly home to some of America’s best coastal and mountain views. Feast your eyes on sweeping landscapes, historical flavor, and lush natural greenery that spans across this Hawaiian island on every single hike housed on Big Island.

Trails to hike: Waipi’o Valley Trail, Kilauea’iki Trail, and Pololu Valley Trail.

What hiking hotspots are next on your bucket list? Let us know in the comments below!