Hiking isn’t just about getting from point A to point B. It’s about discovery—of new landscapes, new cultures, and often, of yourself. The world is full of legendary trails like the Pacific Crest Trail or the Camino de Santiago—but sometimes, the most unforgettable hikes are the ones no one talks about.
If you’re the kind of traveler who loves straying from the beaten path, here are a few reasons why hiking lesser-known trails might be the most rewarding journey you take.
The Beauty of Going Off the Grid
Popular trails are popular for a reason—but they’re also crowded. There’s something incredibly freeing about hiking a remote trail where your only company might be birdsong, distant waterfalls, or the crunch of your own footsteps.
You get to experience the raw, unfiltered essence of nature. And maybe, for a few hours, it feels like the whole world belongs to you.
Hidden Gems Worth Adding to Your Bucket List
Here are a few underrated hiking destinations that adventurous spirits will love:
- The Laugavegur Trail, Iceland
Volcanic valleys, rainbow-colored mountains, and steaming hot springs—it’s otherworldly and unforgettable. - Mount Toubkal, Morocco
The highest peak in North Africa offers a challenging trek with panoramic views of the Atlas Mountains and Berber villages. - The Drakensberg Mountains, South Africa
A paradise for trekkers, with towering cliffs, alpine meadows, and ancient rock art hidden in caves. - Kumano Kodo, Japan
A spiritual trail through cedar forests, shrines, and peaceful mountain villages. A sister route to the Camino de Santiago. - Svaneti Region, Georgia (Caucasus Mountains)
Remote and rugged, with medieval towers, glaciers, and untouched alpine trails that feel like stepping back in time.
Hiking as Cultural Immersion
On lesser-known trails, you don’t just walk—you connect. You meet local guides, stay in mountain huts, and eat homemade meals. You hear stories that don’t make it into guidebooks. You experience cultures not from the outside, but from the trail—authentic and real.
Tips for Exploring Lesser-Known Trails
- Do your research: Not every hidden trail is well-marked. Read trail reports, talk to locals, and download offline maps.
- Pack smart: These trails may have limited services, so be prepared with food, water, and emergency essentials.
- Respect the land: Remote trails are often more ecologically sensitive. Follow Leave No Trace principles religiously.
- Travel light, travel kind: Support local communities and tread gently, both culturally and environmentally.