Nothing truly encapsulates the word ‘adventure’ better than mountain climbing. It’s physically challenging and it often involves exploring highly remote locations. With it comes breathtaking views and scenic trails.
But just what are the best places to go mountain trekking in the world? There are hundreds of mountain ranges to choose from and they all have their merits. However, some stand out for their iconic status, picture postcard vistas or sheer size. Below are 10 examples that every hardcore mountaineer should visit.
The Andes
Stretching along the entire west coast of South America and spanning multiple countries, The Andes is the longest mountain range in the world. There is so much hiking here to experience that no one person could do it all in their lifetime. So where do you start? Well, the most famous trek is undoubtedly the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, which combines archaeological wonders and stunning views. There’s also Torres del Paine in Chile with its glaciers and jagged granite peaks, and the Avenue of Volcanoes in Ecuador where you can get close up to massive active calderas.
The Dolomites
The Dolomites in Northern Italy are some of the most beautiful mountains in the world. These dramatic limestone peaks are surrounded by lush rolling meadows. The Tre Cime de Lavaredo loop takes you around the range’s most famous three peaks. The Lago di Sorapis loop meanwhile encircles a beautiful turquoise lake, while Alta Via 1 is one of the most challenging hikes in the area. Travel here if you’re looking for romantic scenery and incredible photography opportunities.
The Appalachian Mountains
Home to the iconic Appalachian Trail, the Appalachian Mountains attract millions of hikers every year. The 2,200 mile trail itself runs from Maine down to Georgia and passes through lush forests, sweeping valleys and rolling hills. Few people complete it all, but it’s worth attempting a small section. Top spots to visit in the Appalachian Mountains include the pony-filled Grayson Highlands, the rhododendron gardens of Roan Highlands and the panoramic Instagram-famous cliff ledge of McAfee Knob.
The Swiss Alps
A Swiss Alps trekking adventure is a chance to experience true Alpine beauty. Experience snow-capped peaks, crystal clear lakes and charming villages as you hike your way around these mountains. Many people visit Zermatt to see the famous Matterhorn peak (there’s also some great local skiing here). Lauterbrunnen Valley meanwhile offers challenging trails with steep cliffs and 72 waterfalls. For those craving a more leisurely form of exploration, The Bernina Express train is another attraction worth considering, taking you through gorgeous mountain passes and over glaciers.
The Atlas Mountains
In Morocco, the Atlas Mountains provide unique adventures through ancient Berber villages and lush valleys full of walnut trees. Make sure to visit Ait Benhaddou – a historic UNESCO World Heritage site that has been used as a filming location in Gladiator and Game of Thrones. For those wanting a physical challenge, there is meanwhile Toubkal Peak, which is the highest summit in North Africa. The Ouzoud Waterfalls are also breathtaking and can be accessed by hiking up to them or by taking a boat tour.
The Scottish Highlands
These misty mountains in the far north of Scotland attract many visitors each year for their grandeur, history and folklore. Trek through the Cairngorms where you can spot majestic wildlife such as red deer and eagles, or explore the sights around Fort William including the mighty Ben Nevis and the Glenfinnan Viaduct (the bridge that the Hogwarts Express goes over in the Harry Potter movies). There are also many castles to explore and shimmering lochs to hike around including the famous Loch Ness (where you may catch sight of Nessie if you’re lucky!).
The West MacDonnell Ranges
Also known by its Aboriginal name ‘Tjoritja’, the West MacDonnell Ranges provide dramatic gorges and watering holes that are accessible from Alice Springs. The Larapinta Trail is a long trail that weaves around this range, allowing you to see amazing rock formations and wildflower displays contrasted with vast desert vistas. Sites like Emily Gap meanwhile boast historic aboriginal rock art, while Simpson’s Gap is a top spot to see black-footed rock wallabies. Make sure to also visit Standley Chasm – a gorge with steep red rock walls that you can walk through.
The Tien Shan Range
Central Asia’s Tien Shan range – also known as the ‘Celestial Mountains’ – extends through Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. Throughout this dreamy landscape you’ll find absolutely huge peaks (7000m+), vast glaciers and the second largest Alpine lake in the world (Lake Issyk-Kul). Experience nomadic life by staying in traditional yurts or visit backpacker-friendly guesthouses in Karakol to meet other hikers. All kinds of unique wildlife can be spotted in this range including marmots, ibexes and even bears.
The Japanese Alps
Japan has its own picturesque Alps that are full of unique and unforgettable sights. Kamikochi is the most popular destination for hiking – visit in Autumn when the entire valley turns orange and red. Jigokudani Monkey Park meanwhile sports hot springs where you’ll find wild macaques bathing in winter. The area is also known for its historic and striking black castles including Matsumoto Castle. For skiing and snowboarding, make sure to stop by Hakuba Valley in the north.
The Himalayas
Of course, we weren’t going to make a list of mountain ranges without mentioning the Himalayas. This range is famously home to the tallest mountains in the world including Everest and K2. Both are known to be very dangerous peaks that should only be attempted by seasoned climbers (Everest Base Camp is a challenging but safer climb for those that want to be able to say they’ve climbed a section of the tallest mountain in the world – there are also many other budget hikes in Nepal worth considering). Beyond these peaks, there is so much more to see and do in the Himalayas. This includes ancient monasteries like Tiger’s Nest in Bhutan and snow leopard spotting destinations like Ladahk in India. There’s also the scenic Darjeeling Toy Train in the Spiti Valley.
