For those who love hiking but prefer solitude over crowds, less crowded treks offer the perfect escape. While famous trails like the Inca Trail and Everest Base Camp Trek attract thousands of adventurers each year, numerous hidden gems provide breathtaking views, untouched nature, and a more personal trekking experience. Here are some of the best lesser-known treks around the world.
The Langtang Valley Trek, Nepal
While the Annapurna Circuit and Everest Base Camp are crowded, the Langtang Valley Trek remains a quieter alternative. Located north of Kathmandu, this trek takes you through rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and Tibetan-style villages. The views of Langtang Lirung (7,227m) are breathtaking, and the friendly hospitality of the Tamang people makes it a culturally enriching experience.
Markha Valley Trek, India
Situated in Ladakh, the Markha Valley Trek is often overshadowed by more famous Himalayan treks. It offers dramatic landscapes, including deep gorges, remote villages, and Buddhist monasteries. The trek takes you through Hemis National Park, where you may spot blue sheep and even snow leopards.
The Cordillera Huayhuash Trek, Peru
The Cordillera Huayhuash in Peru is one of the most beautiful but least visited trekking routes in the Andes. Unlike the crowded Inca Trail, this circuit offers untouched landscapes, turquoise lakes, and towering peaks. It is a challenging trek with high passes and remote campsites, making it ideal for experienced trekkers seeking solitude.
Retezat Mountains, Romania
For those looking for a European trek without the usual crowds, the Retezat Mountains in Romania offer pristine nature and rugged beauty. This area is home to glacial lakes, alpine meadows, and rich wildlife, including bears and chamois. The trails here remain largely unexplored by international tourists, making it a great off-the-beaten-path destination.
The Kungsleden Trail, Sweden
Kungsleden, meaning “The King’s Trail,” is a remote trek in northern Sweden stretching over 400 kilometers. It takes hikers through Arctic landscapes, birch forests, and past stunning glaciers. Due to its location in Swedish Lapland, the trail is not heavily trafficked, and you can experience the magical midnight sun in summer or the northern lights in autumn.
The Simien Mountains Trek, Ethiopia
Africa’s Simien Mountains offer an incredible trekking experience without the crowds of Kilimanjaro. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to deep valleys, jagged peaks, and rare wildlife, such as the Gelada baboon and Ethiopian wolf. Trekking here provides both breathtaking scenery and cultural encounters with local communities.
The John Muir Trail, USA
While the Pacific Crest Trail and Appalachian Trail are well-known, the John Muir Trail in California remains a quieter alternative. This 211-mile trek takes you through the Sierra Nevada, passing iconic landmarks such as Yosemite, Kings Canyon, and Sequoia National Park. The best time to hike is late summer when the weather is stable and crowds are minimal.
The Laugavegur Trek, Iceland
Iceland’s Laugavegur Trek is a surreal journey through volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and colorful rhyolite mountains. While Iceland has seen a rise in tourism, this multi-day trek remains less crowded compared to the Golden Circle attractions. The best time to hike is during the short summer season when the trails are accessible.
The Torres del Paine O Circuit, Chile
While the W Trek in Torres del Paine National Park is highly popular, the O Circuit offers a more secluded experience. This full-circuit trek takes you deep into the wilderness, passing glaciers, rivers, and breathtaking mountain views. The remote sections of the O Circuit provide a true sense of adventure.
The Drakensberg Traverse, South Africa
For those seeking an adventurous and remote hike in Africa, the Drakensberg Traverse in South Africa is a fantastic choice. This rugged trek involves navigating high-altitude passes, camping in the wilderness, and experiencing incredible panoramic views of the Drakensberg mountains.
Tips for Enjoying Less Crowded Treks
- Do thorough research: Since these treks are remote, make sure to plan your route, permits, and necessary supplies.
- Be self-sufficient: Some of these treks have fewer facilities, so carry enough food, water, and camping gear.
- Check the weather: Remote areas can have unpredictable weather, so always be prepared for sudden changes.
- Respect nature and local cultures: Keep trails clean and respect the traditions of indigenous communities you may encounter.
Conclusion
For those seeking adventure away from the less crowded treks these less-traveled treks provide unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re exploring the Himalayas, the Andes, or the wild landscapes of Africa, these trails promise solitude, breathtaking scenery, and a deep connection with nature. So, pack your gear and embark on a journey to discover the world’s hidden trekking gems!
