9 Longest Hiking Trails in the World

“What should I look for when searching the best hiking trail near me?” For some, it is the trail’s difficulty level. Others want the camping and hiking experience on different terrains.

Some prefer the longest hiking trails. Most people assume the Appalachian Trail is the longest hiking trail globally. It is understandably so since it is an American classic.

However, according to the Guinness Book of World Records, different testimonies, and reviews, there are other long hiking trails globally to try your new hiking boots on. Here are just a few samples.

9 Longest Trails In the World

Great Western Loop

It is one of the longest hiking trails in the US, measuring 11,064km (6,875 miles). The Great Western Loop cuts through nine US states, including Arizona, California, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, and New Mexico.

It also crosses the Sonoran and Mojave deserts, 12 national parks, and 75 wilderness areas.

Trans Canada Trail

The Trans Canada Trail is the longest hiking trail globally, measuring 24,000km (14,912 miles). It is a network of recreational trails stretching from coast to coast. It stretches from the Atlantic Ocean at the trailhead in St.John’s to the Pacific Ocean in Victoria.

The Trans Canada Trail comprises approximately 400 communities that ensure the trails are maintained continuously.

American Discovery Trail

The trail crosses 15 states and Washington, DC. It starts from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Coast, from Delaware to California. It also passes via 14 national parks, 16 natural forests, and over 10,000 historical sites.

The American discovery trail has northern and southern alternates for part of its distance. The overall trail length of both the south and north routes is 10,944km.

Sentiero Italia

The Sentiero Italia is the seventh longest trail globally and is in Italy. It starts in Trieste all the way to St.Teresa Gallura, Sardinia.

It passes via the Apennine Mountain range and Alpine Arc. The trail winds through the Italian vineyards, coastline, and old ruins to snow-capped mountains.

It is a total of 6,880km that crosses 20 regions, 6 UNESCO natural sites, 360 villages, 655 passes, towns, and hamlets.

Hokkaido Nature Trail

It is the longest Japanese trail and the ninth longest hiking trail. You will experience mountainous and volcanic scenery coupled with cool summer temperatures on Hokkaido island. The Hokkaido nature trail provides a medium hiking and backpacking trek.

It measures 2,849 miles in total.

Tohoku Nature Trail

The Tohoku nature trail is located just south of Hokkaido on Honshu island’s northern part. The trail resembles a giant loop with many branches off it.

Tohoku nature trail measures 4,374km (2,718 miles) in total.

Camino de Santiago de Compostella (Spain and France) 

There are different locations to begin this hiking trail. However, all these locations lead to the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostella in Galicia, in northern Spain. Unfortunately, it is not intended for recreational camping and hiking since it is traditionally a pilgrimage trail.

Still, you could test your new comfortable hiking boots by walking the trail to appreciate the history and see Spain.

The trail measures 1,570 plus miles (2,526km +).

Great Himalayan Trail- High Route (Nepal)

The High Route is a full-traverse, and hikers estimate that it takes 156 days. The elevation is exceptionally high and can reach over 6,000 meters, so prepare your hiking pants and boots for strenuous hiking. It measures 1,700km (1,056 miles) in total.

Sir Samuel and Lady Florence Baker Trail

This trail follows the historic path taken by Lady Florence Baker and Sir Samuel during the late 1800s. It stretches from South Sudan to Uganda. The trail was opened in 2014 and is open to mountain bikers and hikers.

Unfortunately, the trail is also open to 4*4 vehicles, making it less fun for hikers. It covers 579km (360 miles) from start to finish.

Bottom Line

Next time you want a hiking trail near me, consider reading your region’s history, where you might discover secret paths and trails for hiking. A long hiking trail gives you a chance to sample different landscapes, weather, and people. While trail hiking may be recreational, you ought to be adequately equipped with a team, hiking gear, and strong hiking shoes to last the long trail.

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