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Thru-hikes are an incredible way to explore the outdoors and experience nature in its rawest form. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a novice, thru-hikes offer something for everyone: stunning landscapes, challenging terrain, and amazing cultural experiences.
But where should you go? With so many trails out there, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is right for you.
That’s why I’ve compiled this list of the 15 best thru hikes in the world (which are also the world’s most famous thru hikes) that are sure to satisfy any hiker. From iconic routes like the Pacific Crest and Appalachian Trails to lesser-known gems such as the Israel National Trail and GR20, this list will provide something for every appetite.
Editor’s Note: As there’s no official internationally-recognised definition of a “thru-hike” I have generally applied the rule that in order to be included in this list, a trail must be at least one of the following: (a) a minimum of 14 days in duration; (b) a minimum of 1,000 kilometres in length; (c) an iconic or historic route of a minimum of 7 days.
The American Triple Crown.
No list of the best thru hikes in the world could be complete without the trifecta of long-distance hiking trails – what is known as the Triple Crown of thru hiking.
The Triple Crown is a prestigious achievement reserved only for the hardiest of hikers. Consisting of completing the Appalachian Trail, Pacific Crest Trail and Continental Divide Trail, this challenge traverses a combined total distance of over 8,000 miles.
The Triple Crown is a true test of endurance and commitment. Here’s a bit more about what to expect on each leg.
1 – Appalachian Trail
Spanning 2,190 miles from Maine to Georgia, this world-famous long-distance footpath is the most popular of the ‘Big 3’ hiking trails in the United States and is a great way to explore the beauty of the USA’s east coast. It takes most thru-hikers 5 to 7 months to complete the entire trail, with many choosing to walk in a northerly direction from Springer Mountain in Georgia up through 14 states along the Appalachian Mountains to Mount Katahdin in Maine.
Along its course hikers will experience a vast diversity of terrain such as expansive meadows, high-elevation mountain ridges, and plenty of dense forests (referred to as the “Green Tunnel”). Thousands attempt the journey each year and it’s where many first-time thru-hikers choose to cut their teeth.
Trail Info
Location: Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Massachussetts, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine, USA
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 2,190 mi / 3,540 km
Duration: 4 to 5 months
Fastest Known Time: Joe “Stringbean” McConaughy (self-supported) 45d 12h 15m on 2017-08-31 / Liz “Mercury” Derstine (self-supported) 51d 16h 30m on 2020-08-27
Official Website: https://appalachiantrail.org/
2 – Pacific Crest Trail
The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) is arguably the world’s most scenic thru-hike spanning 2,650 miles from Mexico to Canada. Along its journey, it passes through California, Oregon and Washington, providing hikers with breathtaking views of the desert, mountains and forests. Most thru-hikers choose to walk in a northerly direction (NOBO) from Campo at the Mexican border, to Manning Park at the Canadian border.
The total distance takes around five to six months to complete. An established and robust trail community provides additional support in terms of food, lodging, medical care and the other supplies thru-hikers need as they make their way north. In contrast to the Appalachian Trail’s relative urbanity, the PCT is regarded as a true wilderness experience, where hikers are required to divert off the trail to return to civilisation.
Trail Info
Location: California, Washington and Oregon, USA
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 2,650 mi / 4,265km
Duration: 5 to 6 months
Fastest Known Time: Josh Perry (self-supported) 55d 16h 54m on 2022-08-07 / Heather Anderson (self-supported) 60d 17h 12m on 2013-08-07
Official Website: https://www.pcta.org/
3 – Continental Divide Trail
The Continental Divide Trail (CDT) is a roughly 3,000-mile trail stretching from Mexico to Canada. It is the longest and most remote of America’s Triple Crown, spanning five states: New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana. The CDT winds its way through some of the continent’s most rugged terrain – from snowy mountain passes in Colorado to the dry desert badlands of New Mexico and the bubbling volcanically active terrain of Yellowstone National Park.
The majority of thru-hikers choose to walk in a northerly direction with the average hiking time around 5-6 months depending on factors like weather and resupply days. With its vastness comes great rewards, but the CDT requires a higher level of skill and preparedness as a much more remote and unforgiving trail.
Trail Info
Location: New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming, Idaho and Montana, USA
Difficulty: Hard
Length: ~3,100 mi / ~4,988 km
Duration: 5 to 6 months
Fastest Known Time: Jeff Garmire (self-supported) 79d 23h 57m on 2016-10-15
Official Website: https://continentaldividetrail.org/
Two More Famous American Thru Hikes.
If you want to avoid the crowds on the ‘Big 3’ trails, there are two more famous American thru hikes worth mentioning in this list of thru hikes around the world. Both offer similarly scenic experiences through two of America’s very diverse yet unique landscapes.
4 – Colorado Trail
This stunning 486 mile long trail winds through six mountain ranges and national forests to traverse the state of Colorado, USA. Renowned for its dramatic elevation gain and loss with an average elevation of 10,000 ft / 3,048 m this trail takes you from snow-capped peaks to lush meadows filled with wildflowers and alpine lakes.
Along the way, you’ll be immersed in diverse wildlife, and alpine tundra and although you won’t quite reach 14,000ft on the trail you’ll be surrounded by these massive peaks as you walk. With an average time frame of around three to five weeks for thru-hikers, it is a challenging but rewarding journey.
Trail Info
Location: Colorado, USA
Difficulty: Hard
Length: 486 mi / 782 km
Duration: 3 to 5 weeks
Fastest Known Time: David Ruttum (self-supported) 10d 12h 24m 45s on 2022-09-14
Official Website: https://coloradotrail.org/
5 – Arizona Trail
The Arizona Trail is an 800-mile long, multi-use trail that traverses the entire state of Arizona from Mexico to Utah. It travels through a variety of diverse terrain and climates, from desert canyons and gorges to mountain peaks and lush forests. Renowned for its solace, it’s one of the relatively few long-distance trails in America where you can have a true wilderness experience.
Wildlife abounds with coyotes, bobcats and perhaps even the odd black bear prevalent along the way, and share the trail with mountain bikers, horse riders and more. See the world’s largest forest of Ponderosa Pines, and enjoy a sunset or two atop the Grand Canyon. With its picturesque views, challenging sections, and world-class scenery along the way, it is no wonder why the Arizona Trail remains one of America’s most popular trails.
Trail Info
Location: Arizona, USA
Difficulty: Hard
Length: 800 mi / 1287 km
Duration: 40 to 55 days
Fastest Known Time (self-supported): Josh Perry (self supported) 14d 12h 21m on 2019-10-30 / Katie Brown (self supported) 17d 19h 52m 54s on 2022-05-16
Official Website: https://aztrail.org/
The Best Thru Hikes in Europe.
Europe is home to some of the world’s most stunning and challenging thru hikes. From the snow-capped mountains of Switzerland and the Alps to the ancient pilgrimage routes of Spain, there’s something for everyone across the continent. Here are some of the best thru hikes in Europe to get you started.
6 – Camino Frances, Spain
Also known as the Way of St James or the Camino Frances (the French Way) this ancient pilgrimage route spans almost 500 miles, taking hikers across some of the most stunning and diverse landscapes northern Spain has to offer. With the solitary goal of reaching the tomb of St James in Santiago de Compostela, this journey has been an annual tradition since the 12th Century. Beginning in St Jean Pied de Port on the French side of the Pyrenees Mountains, hikers will pass through lush valleys, rolling hillsides, small villages and historic cities as they make their way to Santiago.
Widely recognised as perhaps the most cultural thru hike in the world, this journey is as much about the people as the landscape with each night spent in hostel-style accommodation socialising with fellow hikers and locals. Although strenuous in sections the trail is routinely hiked by people in their 70s and 80s, with plenty of options to ease the 12+ mi / 20+ km per day pace by having your bags transported ahead and skipping more difficult sections.
Trail Info
Location: Spain
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 500 mi / 800 km
Duration: 30 – 40 days
Fastest Known Time: Andrey Merkulov (self-supported) 10d 7h 41m on 2019-04-27 / Jennifer Anderson (supported) 9d 5h 29m on 2011-03-07
Official Website: https://caminoways.com/camino-frances
7 – South West Coast Path, UK
Representing England on this list of the best thru hikes in the world is the South West Coast Path. This is the UK’s longest continuous hiking trail, winding its way for 630 miles along the dramatic coastline of England’s southwest. Stretching from Minehead in Somerset, to Poole Harbour in Dorset, this stunning path takes hikers through some of the most breathtaking coastal scenery in all of Britain.
Along the route, you’ll pass by iconic landmarks such as Land’s End and Lizard Point, explore quaint seaside fishing villages, reflect at historic fortifications and marvel at beautiful beaches! Never far from civilisation, there’s plenty of opportunity to enjoy a beer (or cider), pub meal or cream tea along the way, with plenty of accommodation options and places to resupply as you go.
Trail Info
Location: England, UK
Difficulty: Hard
Length: 630 mi / 1,014 km
Duration: 6 to 8 weeks
Fastest Known Time: Dave Phillips (supported) 10d 8h 24m 44s on 2022-05-22 / Danielle Blackie (supported) 18d 14h 42m 42s on 2021-05-02
Official Website: https://southwestcoastpath.org/
8 – GR20, Corsica
The GR20 (short for Grand Randonee) is a challenging yet rewarding hiking trail located on the French island of Corsica. Spanning approximately 109 miles, this high-altitude trek takes hikers through some of the most breathtaking landscapes on the Mediterranean coast and provides them with spectacular views that will stay with them forever.
Across soaring peaks, through verdant forests and along sweeping coastlines this trail involves river crossings, vertiginous climbs and a swing bridge or two. And the elevation profile tells a gruelling story. Widely regarded as the most difficult thru hike in Europe, less than half of the GR20’s aspiring thru hikers manage to complete it! With an average time frame of around three to five weeks, it’s sure to be a strenuous but ultimately fulfilling achievement.
Trail Info
Location: Corsica, France
Difficulty: Hard
Length: 109 mi / 176 km
Duration: 3 to 5 weeks
Fastest Known Time: Lambert Santelli (supported) 1d 6h 26m 15s on 2021-06-26 / Anne-Lise Rousset Séguret (supported) 1d 11h 50m 40s on 2022-06-14
9 – Tour du Mont Blanc, France, Italy & Switzerland
The Tour du Mont Blanc is a classic hiking route that takes you through the birthplace of alpine tourism in France, Italy and Switzerland. The full circuit passes through all three countries as it loops around Mont Blanc (the White Mountain) and offers some of the most spectacular alpine views in all of Europe.
An unforgettable experience for hikers looking to explore the majestic beauty of the Alps, the tour typically takes between nine and twelve days, depending on your chosen itinerary. You’ll traverse well-maintained paths through lush alpine meadows, past snow-capped peaks, serene mountain lakes and picturesque villages tucked away in the many valleys. Don’t miss the opportunity to take advantage of the many mountain huts, lodges and guesthouses which have sheltered many hikers and climbers over the years.
Tour Info
Location: France, Italy and Switzerland
Difficulty: Hard
Length: 105 mi / 168 km
Duration: 9 to 12 days
Official Website: https://www.autourdumontblanc.com/en/
10 – Via Dinarica, Balkans
The Via Dinarica is a unique hiking trail that traverses through the western Balkan region, offering an unforgettable adventure for hikers. Boasting dramatic limestone mountain ranges, roaring rivers and glacial lakes, abundant wildlife (such as deer and chamois) and a unique culture to explore, this is an amazing way to experience the diversity of the region.
The trail winds through Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Albania, and Serbia, with many hikers stating the best part of this trail is its relative anonymity. A hybrid experience of lodges and guesthouses, and camping marks the nights spent on the trail, and the locals are always on the lookout for strays in case you get lost or look hungry. There’s plenty to see and learn about along the trail in these almost forgotten communities on Europe’s farthest reaches.
Trail Info
Location: Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Montenegro, Albania and North Macedonia
Difficulty: Hard
Length: 1,199 mi / 1,930 km
Duration: 3 to 4 months
Official Website: https://www.via-dinarica.org/
some more of the Best Thru Hikes in the World.
If you haven’t yet found something that whets your appetite on this list, there are plenty of other famous thru hikes to explore. Perhaps you’re more inclined to an adventure which takes you the entire length of a country? Or is high-altitude trekking more your style? With varying levels of difficulty and a range of cultural experiences, here are five more of the best thru hikes in the world to think about.
11 – Te Araroa, New Zealand
Despite the fact that it’s a wee way down this list, Te Araroa is perhaps my choice of the best thru hikes in the world. An incredible hiking trail in New Zealand that spans the entire length of the country, it’s a popular destination for hikers looking to explore the stunning landscapes and unique wildlife of NZ’s beautiful island nation. The trail covers about 3,000 kilometres (1,864 miles) from Cape Reinga at the northern tip of New Zealand down to Bluff at its southern tip.
Along its route, Te Araroa passes through some of the most stunning scenery in all of New Zealand including forests, mountains, beaches and rivers. Hikers will also have plenty of opportunities to spot some amazing native kiwi wildlife along their journey!
Trail Info
Location: New Zealand
Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
Length: 3,000 km / 1,864 mi
Duration: 4 to 6 months
Fastest Known Time: Tim Wright (self supported) 69d 20h 37m on 2022-12-24 / Brooke Thomas (supported) 57d 12h 16m on 2021-01-22
Official Website: https://www.teararoa.org.nz/
12 – Bibbulmun Track, Australia
Named after the indigenous inhabitants of the western Australian region, the Bibbulmun Track is a walking trail that stretches over 963 miles through stunning forests and coastal landscapes. Beginning in Perth and traversing varied landscapes through to Albany on the southwestern coast of Australia, the trail passes through some of the most beautiful and biodiverse regions in the country.
Experience gigantic karri trees (the world’s third largest) and wildflowers, goannas and skinks, and keep your distance from the highly poisonous dugite and tiger snakes. Along its length, there are spacious shelters at established campsites, with water sources, toilets and other facilities provided. Very well supplied and with relatively flat walking and a settled climate, even novice walkers and those in their 70s and 80s can undertake this amazing adventure.
Trail Info
Location: Australia
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 620 mi / 1,000 km
Duration: 6 to 8 weeks
Fastest Known Time: Tom Bartlett (self supported) 11d 21h 45m on 2022-10-04 / Nicki Rehn (self supported) 19d 12h 0m on 2009-04-24
Official Website: https://www.bibbulmuntrack.org.au/
13 – Everest Base Camp Trek, Nepal
Although only a 14-day journey, the Everest Base Camp Trek makes the list of best thru hikes in the world due to its astoundingly awe-inspiring scenery. From the lush green hills of the lower Khumbu valley to the snow-capped peaks of the tallest mountains in the world, this trek will literally take your breath away. The 8,200 ft (2,500 m) difference in elevation between the trek’s start point in Lukla and south base camp makes for strenuous trekking.
The two-week timeframe allows a few extra acclimatisation days to help reduce the risk of altitude sickness. And why wouldn’t you want to stop and enjoy the adventure? Experience the colour and culture of settlements like Namche Bazaar, trek along with yaks and sherpas carrying 40+ kilo loads up the valley, and visit the monastery of Tengboche to learn more about the spirituality of the region. If you’re feeling energetic, you may also choose to explore various side trails or even some of the easier peaks as you gradually acclimatise towards base camp.
Trail Info
Location: Nepal
Difficulty: Hard
Length: 80 mi / 130 km
Duration: 14+ days (return)
Fastest Known Time: Tyler Andrews (self supported) 23h 42m 13s on 2020-03-16
14 – Israel National Trail, Israel
This culturally significant long trail spans the entire country of Israel, from the small town of Kfar Giladi at the border of Lebanon and Syria to its southern terminus at Eilat on the Red Sea. With over 1,100 kilometres of varied terrain, the trail offers something for every type of hiker. From rolling hills and lush forests to a long section along the Mediterranean coast, before turning inland where ancient ruins and arid deserts reign, this incredible journey will take your breath away.
Bustling metropolises filled with modern comforts morph into soulless deserts where hikers may encounter tribes of Bedouin and learn about nomadic life. Passing through such historically and religiously significant sites as Nazareth, Jerusalem and the Judean Desert, this is an overwhelmingly cultural pilgrimage and one which is a rite of passage for young Israelis.
Trail Info
Location: Israel
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 680 mi / 1,100 km
Duration: 8 to 10 weeks
Fastest Known Time: Carlos Goldberg (self supported) 12d 13h 37m on 2007-10-05
Official Website: https://www.israeltrail.net/
15 – Jordan Trail, Jordan
To round out this list of the best thru hikes in the world is one of the newest. Officially opened in 2017, the Jordan Trail is a 400-mile hiking route that traverses some of the most stunning scenery in Jordan. Passing such iconic sites as Petra and Wadi Rum, this Jordan thru hike is more commonly walked in sections rather than as a whole, but will no doubt grow in popularity.
Enjoy the gigantic wadis of the desert, vast open expanses of red sand and ancient craters, to the olive groves and orchards of the north. Pass old crusader castles at Kerak and marvel at the star-speckled sky which glows in the absence of light pollution. End your journey within the red-tinged walls of Petra, one of the seven wonders of the world. Take the opportunity to immerse yourself in Jordanian culture, where you should brush up on local customs and perhaps learn a bit of Arabic before interacting with locals.
Trail Info
Location: Jordan
Difficulty: Hard
Length: 400 mi / 650 km
Duration: 30 to 40 days
Fastest Known Time: Willie Thacker (self supported) 16d 1h 0m on 2022-01-24 / Amy Sproston (supported) 8d 9h 28m on 2020-10-03
Official Website: https://jordantrail.org/
Final Thoughts: The 15 Best (& Most Famous) Thru Hikes in the World.
Thru hiking is a great way to explore the world and experience different cultures. This list of the best thru hikes in the world takes you from challenging treks in the Nepalese Himalayas and ancient pilgrimages like the Camino de Santiago, to culturally significant trails like the Israel National Trail or Jordan Trail.
Whether it’s an adventure of a lifetime or just a two-week escape to the wilderness, each of these thru hikes offers something unique that will leave you with unforgettable memories.
So why not challenge yourself and embark on your own epic journey today? Start planning now… who knows what surprises await along your path!
