We’ve put together our ultimate mountain trails that put you right out there in the thick of it…
1. Mer de Glace, France
While this might be a gentle hike, it certainly delivers in natural beauty. Beginning in Chamonix, this hike takes you up to the longest glacier in France. Wander through jaw dropping alpine scenery and take in stunning views of the Mont Blanc Massif.
2. Appalachian trail, USA
This iconic route spreads right up the eastern states of the US, beginning at Springer Mountain in Georgia, and ending in Mount Katahdin, in Maine. Doing the whole trail is a serious endeavor, though many choose to do just sections of this 2,200 mile trek. The sections through Shenandoah National Park offer some highlight terrain.
3. Refugio Frey and Cerro Catedral, Argentina
Argentina is home to some truly amazing mountain ranges that are equally as interesting to explore on a snowboard in the winter, as they are on foot in the dry, hot summers. The country’s Lake District is near Bariloche where you’ll find the Refugio Frey and Cerro Catedral, which takes you up through the wild forests and rugged peaks of the Andes.
4. Lechweg Trail, Austria & Germany
From immaculate, crystal clear lakes, to the dense tree-lined hillsides, this route showcases the pure diversity of the mountains. Starting in Bavaria, it crosses the Torilean mountains through to Vorarlberg. As anyone that’s been riding this way during winter months will attest, it’s one of Europe’s most beautiful landscapes.
5. Tongariro Alpine Crossing, New Zealand
Many people compare the volcanic landscape of Tongariro to a moonscape. The mountain pass takes in the Emerald lakes and Blue Lake, before returning to the tree drenched hillsides of this North Island National Park.
6. Trolltunga, Norway
We’re all familiar with this natural platform that juts out high in the Norwegian mountains. While this might be a photo hungry location that draws the crowds, be sure to check out the four waterfalls trail nearby in the Husedalen Valley.
7. Rwenzori Central Circuit, Uganda
Uganda might not be the first place you think of when considering mountain hikes, but this three day circuit takes in Mount Margherita, which as well as sharing the same name as a pizza topping, also happens to be the third highest peak in Africa.
8. Everest Base Camp, Nepal
Come on, it’s Everest base camp. We all know the bragging rights this peak brings, but glory hunting aside, this route takes in the full diversity of the Himalayas. Look out for the high mountain passes of Kongma-la, Cho-la, and Renjo-la.
9. Stac Pollaidh, Scotland
The Scottish highlands are the perfect place to go and get lost in raw, unfiltered nature. Stac Pollaidh may only be 613m high, but the ruggedly beautiful landscape is truly unique and beckons to be explored.
10. Kinney Lake Trail, Canada
British Columbia is synonymous with breathtaking wilderness, and this epic trail takes in everything from pristine lakes to snow-capped mountains. You’re likely to see moose, elk and black bears on this hiking trail, which transforms constantly throughout the seasons.
Nick Baines
Author
With an insatiable thirst for travel, Nick Baines is a journalist based on the UK’s south coast. With more than 20 years experience in snow sports, he’s contributed features to publications all over the world.