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10 Must-Try Hiking Trails in the Rockies

2024-08-30 07:40:45

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5 min read

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10 Must-Try Hiking Trails in the Rockies

Introduction

The Rocky Mountains offer some of the most breathtaking and challenging hiking trails in the world. From easy strolls through wildflowers to strenuous climbs to alpine lakes, there are trails for every level of hiker. Here are ten of our favorite must-try trails in the Rockies.

1. The Highline Trail (Glacier National Park, Montana)

This classic trail traverses the stunning alpine meadows and granite cliffs of Glacier National Park. The full trail is 11.5 miles one way, but you can hike as much or as little as you like.

2. The Inca Trail (Machu Picchu, Peru)

This iconic trail leads to the ancient Inca ruins of Machu Picchu. It's a challenging hike, but the rewards are unforgettable. The trail is typically hiked over 4 days and 3 nights.

3. The El Camino de Santiago (Spain)

This historic pilgrimage route traverses northern Spain. It's a long hike, but it's also a great way to experience the country's culture and history. The full trail is 500 miles long and typically takes 30-35 days.

4. The Tour du Mont Blanc (France, Italy, Switzerland)

This challenging trek circles the Mont Blanc massif, the highest mountain in the Alps. The full trail is 105 miles long and typically takes 10-12 days to complete.

5. The Appalachian Trail (United States)

This iconic trail runs from Georgia to Maine. It's the longest hiking trail in the world, and it offers a wide variety of scenery along the way. The full trail is 2,190 miles long and typically takes 5-6 months to complete.

6. The Pacific Crest Trail (United States)

This trail runs from Mexico to Canada, and it offers a unique opportunity to experience the diversity of the American West. The full trail is 2,650 miles long and typically takes 4-6 months to complete.

7. The Continental Divide Trail (United States)

This trail follows the Continental Divide from Mexico to Canada. It's a challenging hike, but it offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of the Rocky Mountains. The full trail is 3,100 miles long and typically takes 5-6 months to complete.

8. The John Muir Trail (United States)

This trail runs through the heart of the Sierra Nevada mountains. It's a challenging hike, but it offers stunning scenery and opportunities for wildlife viewing. The full trail is 211 miles long and typically takes 2-3 weeks to complete.

9. The Wonderland Trail (Mount Rainier National Park, Washington)

This trail circles Mount Rainier, one of the most iconic mountains in the United States. It's a challenging hike, but it offers stunning views of the mountain and its surroundings. The full trail is 93 miles long and typically takes 5-7 days to complete.

10. The Kalalau Trail (Kauai, Hawaii)

This challenging trail leads to the remote Kalalau Valley on the island of Kauai. It's a strenuous hike, but it offers stunning scenery and opportunities for swimming and camping. The full trail is 11 miles one way and typically takes 2-3 days to complete.