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The Top Hikes in Iceland during the Summer

Sometimes walking is the best way to get to know a new place. If you’re road-tripping across Europe and want to make the most of your time away, exploring each country on foot is a great way to make the best memories before you return – including the beautiful country of Iceland. This article covers everything you need to know about exploring Iceland on foot, including the country’s dramatic landscape, and some of the best hikes in Iceland to take in summer.

Visiting Iceland in Summer

With 24 hours of light in Summer and the chance to see the Northern Lights in the Fall, Iceland is a Nordic island nation known for its dramatic landscape of hot springs, volcanos, geysers, and lava fields. It’s a must-do stop for anyone travelling across Europe, and while it’s possible to explore Iceland by car, walking tours offer the chance to truly take in Iceland’s breathtaking scenery. For avid hikers, the best time to visit Iceland is in the summer, when you won’t have to deal with frozen-over trails and you can take advantage of the long days.

Iceland’s Geology

The landscape of Iceland has been shaped by dramatic forces over the past 30 million years, including active plate tectonics, volcanoes, and glacial movement. However, since Iceland itself is less than 33 million years old, scientists still define it as a geologically young island!

Iceland is one of the only places in the world that has an exposed divergent plate boundary at the earth’s surface, and with 33 active volcanoes, the vast majority of the earth’s volcanic features can be seen on an island roughly the same size as Kentucky…

The Three Best Hikes in Iceland in the Summer

Iceland utterly changes when you explore it on foot. Only you and your fellow hikers will truly understand the landscapes of this beautiful island that are usually hidden beyond the highway and other tourist routes. Here are some of the best hikes in Iceland in the summer:

The Laugavegur Trek

Exploring the Landmannalaugar highlands on one of the best hikes in Iceland on the Laugavegur Trek

This is Iceland’s most famous hiking trail that leads intrepid explorers through black lava fields, colorful rhyolite mountains, black deserts and steaming hot springs – there’s a reason Laugavegur translates as the “Hot Spring Route” in English! The best time to visit the trail is during Iceland’s summer, when you won’t have to deal with frozen trails.

The Fimmvörduháls Trek

Thórsmörk, the grand finale of the Fimmvörduháls Trek

The Fimmvörduháls hike is Iceland’s second most famous hiking trail and leads you along the river up into the mountains, going through breathtaking waterfalls and a thrilling canyon that is up there with one of the best gorges in Iceland.

The Kjölur Route

The old-fashioned way of crossing the Icelandic highlands

Also known as Kjalvegur or the “Haunted Highway,” the Kjölur Trek leads between two glaciers into the very heart of the Icelandic Highlands. Going way back, people used horses to cross the Highlands, and ever since the Vikings first settled down in Iceland there has been a route connecting Northern Iceland, and the South. Compared to the other two routes mentioned, this hiking trek is known to be more challenging. However, with the right equipment and a good amount of hiking experience, it’s well worth doing. The best time to do this hike in Iceland is in the summer, to make sure you avoid thick snowfall.

The Best Hikes in Iceland – Final Thoughts

Don’t miss your chance to see some of Europe’s most beautiful scenery by embarking on one of the best hikes in Iceland during the summer. Iceland offers some of the most unforgettable landscapes, and by exploring the country on foot, you can discover some of this Nordic island’s most sensational hidden gems.

To ensure you have a great hiking experience in Iceland, be sure to get the AllTrails app before you go. The app has an extensive list of the best trails for hiking in Iceland, with reviews from other hikers to keep you up to date on the latest trail conditions. You can filter by trail difficulty, length, and suitability and download trail maps to help keep you on track even when you’re offline.

May 24, 2023/0 Comments/by Monica W.

The Best Long Distance Hikes in Ireland

Off the Beaten Path

Are you planning a trip to Ireland in the near future? If so, you should consider adding one of the many long-distance hikes in Ireland to your bucket list.

The best time to go hiking in Ireland is between May and October, as temperatures are slightly warmer, and you can enjoy pleasant weather during your hike. However, it’s important that you pack the right gear, should random rainfall occur.

Many of the long-distance backpacking trails in Ireland will allow you to enjoy Ireland off the beaten path. During a hike, you may come across quaint villages which are definitely not on the average tourist’s radar.

To ensure you have a great hiking experience in Ireland, be sure to get the AllTrails app before you go. The app has an extensive list of the best trails for hiking in Ireland, with reviews from other hikers to keep you up to date on the latest trail conditions. You can filter by trail difficulty, length, and suitability and download trail maps to help keep you on track even when you’re offline.

There is a wide range of long-distance hikes in Ireland, where you can either camp along the way or find accommodation in the middle of your chosen route. As there are so many long-distance hiking trails to select from in Ireland, we have narrowed down some of the best treks available to explore.

1. Kerry Way (214 km)

Torc Waterfall which stands at the base of Torc Mountain within the Killarney National Park.

Torc Waterfall in the Killarney National Park

Kerry Way is one of the longest signposted hiking trails in Ireland which begins and ends in Killarney, a popular coastal town in the Republic of Ireland. Killarney is known for its brightly coloured 19th-century architecture, including St Mary’s Cathedral.

This hiking trail is a circular route that typically takes around 7 to 10 days to complete. Despite the length of the hike, it is a fairly easy route that is accessible to all levels. Although the terrain does differ, with everything from sturdy tarmac roads to boggy national parkland and farm areas.

Along the way, you will discover interesting castle ruins and ancient Celtic monuments, as well as stunning mountain landscapes. At the start of the hike, you can also enjoy the beautiful Torc Waterfall, which stands at the base of Torc Mountain within the Killarney National Park.

2. The Wicklow Way (128 km)

Wicklow Mountains National Park along the Wicklow Way - one of the best long distance hikes in Ireland

The J. B. Malone memorial above Lough Tay in the Wicklow Mountains National Park

The Wicklow Way is one of the most challenging backpacking trails in Ireland. The trail takes around 7 days in total, starting in the Dublin suburb of Rathfarnham and crossing 26 peaks throughout Dublin and the Wicklow mountains. The hiking trail ends in the small village of Clonegal in County Carlow.

The most popular route along the Wicklow Way is the north to south route, however, you can also take the south to the north route if you wish to start on low terrain and work your way up.

Whatever route you take, you will be able to enjoy a wide range of sights including Marlay Park, Fairy Castle, the Powerscourt waterfall, the peaks of Djouce, and more.

3. The Irish segment of the E8 Long Distance Trail (650 km)

Walk the start of the E8 Long-Distance Trail - one of the best long distance hikes in Ireland

Walk the westernmost portion of the E8 Long-Distance Trail in Ireland

The E8 trail was established as Europe’s first long-distance hike, and it starts in Ireland in Cork’s Dursey Island – the westernmost tip of Europe. The whole trail stretches to Istanbul, Turkey, although the Irish section begins at Dursey Island and ends in Dublin City.

Part of the route overlaps with some of the best long-distance hikes in Ireland including the Wicklow Way, the Kerry Way, the South Leinster Way, and the Blackwater Way.

The Irish segment of the E8 trail goes from coast to coast and allows you to see all of rural Ireland including the bogs, mountains, windy country roads, old castles, and even ancient burial sites.

4. Dingle Way (183 km)

Cliffs along the Dingle Way towards Slea Head

Ireland’s Dingle Way is a circular backpacking trail that covers the Dingle Peninsula and takes around 6 to 8 days to complete. This is an easy to moderate walk with well-maintained terrain throughout.

The Dingle Way starts and ends in Tralee, in the South-west county of Kerry. Tralee is known for its yearly Rose of Tralee International Festival, which is held every August. This is a contest that celebrates Irish women all over the world.

The Dingle Way offers stunning views of beautiful beaches, lively towns, and mountains. When you get to the foot of Mount Bradon, the difficulty of the trail increases, however, it’s nothing the average hiker can’t handle.

5. The Beara Way (206 km)

Beara Peninsula countryside on the Beara Way

The Beara Way is a circular long-distance hike in Ireland that begins and ends in Glengarriff, a tiny village in the Beara Peninsula of County Cork. It takes about 8 to 12 days to complete the entire backpacking trail, however, you can start the hike at various points.

Most of the backpacking trail is dry, there are parts of the walk that are boggy, so it’s advised that you bring waterproof shoes. There are also various steep climbs and rough terrain, so it’s important you stay focused while you walk.

During the walk, you will come across spectacular Atlantic views, as well as plenty of wild mountainous land. You will also have the pleasure of visiting Bere Island during the trail, where you will find historic military buildings, plenty of heritage, and even the opportunity to go whale watching.

The collection of long-distance hikes in Ireland does not stop here, as there are plenty more backpacking trails and sights to explore on The Emerald Isle.

For more facts on travel in Ireland, take a look at our Backpacking Ireland guide, which uncovers everything you need to know about Ireland including where to stay. It also discusses things to do while you are there, as well as Republic of Ireland visa requirements and work permit information.

May 22, 2023/0 Comments/by Heather Barrigan

The 10 Best Day Hikes in New Zealand

Off the Beaten Path

There is a reason New Zealand is a popular shooting location for fantasy movies and TV shows. The stunning and other-worldly landscapes make New Zealand one of the most beautiful countries in the world. There is no better way to take in this beauty than by hiking one of the best day hikes in New Zealand. That said, we have listed ten must-visit hiking trails in the Land of the Long White Cloud.

To ensure you have a great hiking experience in New Zealand, be sure to get the AllTrails app before you go. The app has an extensive list of the best trails for hiking in New Zealand, with reviews from other hikers to keep you up to date on the latest trail conditions. You can filter by trail difficulty, length, and suitability and download trail maps to help keep you on track even when you’re offline.

The Best Day Hikes on New Zealand’s North Island

The North Island is home to a diverse set of stunning landscapes. When comparing hiking conditions between the North and South Island of New Zealand, the North Island offers warmer temperatures on average.

From the alpine peaks in Tongariro National Park to coastal paths in Northland, there is something here for everyone, regardless of your hiking style.

Tongariro Alpine Crossing

One of the best day hikes you in New Zealand would be the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. This hike is so memorable, that many people have heralded it as New Zealand’s Greatest Day Hike. When you try it for yourself, you’ll see that this is no flattery or exaggeration on anybody’s part.

Aside from the stunning mountainous terrain, you’ll be able to see emerald lakes and volcanic views. Since this is rocky and steep terrain, it would be a good idea to bring your hiking poles with you to be safe, even if you’re a veteran hiker.

Tama Lakes Track

Another one of the best day hikes in New Zealand that you should try if you’re hoping to visit beautiful lakes in New Zealand is the Tama Lakes track. This particular hiking trail passes the Taranaki Falls trail, which you’ll pass by in order to get to the Lower Tama Lake lookout.

The Tama Lakes Track is a great trail for taking in the view of the Tongariro volcanic area. The whole track takes about 5-6 hours round trip.

Cape Brett Track

Te Toroa Bay from the Cape Brett Trail.

If you want to go hiking along the New Zealand coasts, you should head to the North Island and try the Cape Brett Track. It’s a gorgeous coastal hiking trail that is at the far north of North Island. It’s considered one of the more challenging day hikes in New Zealand, because of the elevation changes and length of the trail.

If you want to cap your hike off with a refreshing swim at the end of the track, you can head to the Deep Water Cove. It’s possible to do the hike in one day, but that would require you to skip part of the trail. If you have the time, you could consider staying in a hut along the way to turn your hike into an overnight adventure.

Pinnacles Track

Nowadays, most people are aware that New Zealand is the setting of many fantastical movies and shows. The most famous film set in New Zealand within the fantasy realm is the Lord of the Rings. If you want to see one of its filming locations in New Zealand, you should try the Pinnacles Track.

The Pinnacles Track is named so due to the pinnacles towering above you. These are pillars that the winds and water have shaped into what they are now. It takes just under 4 hours to reach the summit from the trail head, which makes the Pinnacles Track one of the best day hikes in New Zealand to enjoy the country’s beauty.

The Best Day Hikes on New Zealand’s South Island

New Zealand’s South Island is home to some of the most stunning landscapes in the country. The Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park has plenty of options for breathtaking day hikes, so any trip to New Zealand should include plenty of time exploring the area.

But don’t forget to pay a visit to Wanaka, known for its incredible scenery, snow-capped mountains, and turquoise lakes.

Sealy Tarns Track

Near Sealy Tarns in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park

The Sealy Tarns Track is one of the more challenging day hikes for New Zealand hikers who want a bit more of an adventure. If you’re hoping to get a gorgeous view of Mount Cook and even Hooker Valley, the Sealy Tarns Track is where you should head to. The entire track takes 3-4 hours, and there are multiple viewpoints along the way for an excellent picnic spot.

Mueller Hut Route

Red Mueller Hut in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand

The Red Mueller Hut in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park

If you’re looking for unique and popular places to go to when hiking New Zealand, you should embark on the Mueller Hut Route. This route is trendy for its red Mueller Hut, hence the name.

Although you can finish this trail within one day, you also have the option of turning it into a 2-day trek and spending the night in the famous red Mueller Hut.

Hooker Valley Track

The Hooker Valley Track in Aoraki/Mount Cood National Park, South Island

Hiking in New Zealand will lead you to all sorts of places that you’ve never seen, let alone heard of before. Therefore, if you come across unique names for hiking trails, don’t be dissuaded.

Such is the case for when you make your way over to conquer the Hooker Valley Track that would lead you right to Hooker Lake. The trail crosses 3 suspension bridges and finishes at a lookout above Hooker Lake with an excellent view of Mount Cook.

This 10 km/6 mile hiking trail is one of the easier day hikes in New Zealand since it’s a flat trail. However, it can get quite crowded, so you should take this track early so that you don’t have to drown in the hiking crowds. You’ll be able to enjoy the Hooker Valley better that way.

Roys Peak Track, Wanaka

Roys Peak Track in Wanaka

Roys Peak Track in the Wanaka region is one of the more challenging day hikes in New Zealand that gets you up to Mount Roy’s summit. It takes about 3 and a half hours to reach the top, where you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views. You should take this track sometime around January to October for the best experience.

Rob Roy Glacier Trail, Wanaka

Rob Roy Track in Mount Aspiring National Park

Beneath Mount Rob Roy, you can try the Rob Roy Glacier Trail, which follows the Rob Roy Stream after crossing the West Matukituki River. The gorgeous stream across the deep grey valley of rocks is a sight to behold. The track typically takes 3-4 hours and is considered an easy track, making it suitable for beginners.

Along the way, you’re going to encounter a beech forest and waterfalls, which adds to its value as a hiking trail.

Avalanche Peak, Arthur’s Pass National Park

View north from the track to Avalanche Peak, Arthur’s Pass National Park

Another peak that you should consider climbing if you’re looking for a challenging hiking trail is the hike up to Avalanche Peak. This one-day hike in New Zealand can take five to eight hours, depending on your condition and hiking skills.

This is a challenging track to traverse, so make sure that you prepare and research beforehand. If there’s poor visibility or the peak is very snowy, it will be dangerous. However, if you go there on a good day, you’ll feel a great sense of accomplishment after reaching the peak and taking in the view of the valleys below.

Hiking in New Zealand is an excellent way to explore the country. That’s because there are plenty of hiking trails that will allow you to explore the beauty of the stunning landscape. If you ever manage to go to this lovely country, be sure to take to the trails and enjoy the best day hikes in New Zealand.

May 14, 2023/0 Comments/by Geraldine Mills

The Best Day Hikes in Alberta Canada to Avoid the Crowds

Off the Beaten Path

As a person who loves the great outdoors and going on hikes, there is nothing I love more than the fresh air and a great view, something you can get plenty of in Alberta.

During my last 8 months in Canada, I’ve spent a lot of time in Alberta and have been trying to find the best day hikes that don’t have heaps of tourists. Who doesn’t prefer quiet, peaceful walks through nature? During the winter, that’s an easy task, as many of the more difficult trails are closed due to the weather. Plus, who wants to go hiking in -40c?! Not me.

However, during summer, also known as the peak season, it was a challenge to find off-the-beaten trails in Alberta that were short enough to complete in 1 day and didn’t have hundreds of tourists.

Below, I have listed some of my favourite day hikes off the beaten path in Alberta. Some are easy for beginners, and some are more tricky, but all feature a great view without too much effort.

To ensure you have a great hiking experience in Alberta, be sure to get the AllTrails app before you go. The app has an extensive list of the best trails for hiking in Alberta, with reviews from other hikers to keep you up to date on the latest trail conditions. You can filter by trail difficulty, length, and suitability and download trail maps to help keep you on track even when you’re offline.

East End of Rundle

Stunning views over Whitemans pond and Ha Ling peak from the East End of Rundle Trail

At 4.8 km long and taking between 6-7 hours to complete, the East End of Rundle hike is one of the slightly longer day hikes in Alberta and one that’s a real leg burner. Starting on the edge of a forest on the side of Rundle mountain, this trail is steep pretty much the entire way. It can be difficult to tell what direction the trail leads as there are not too many signs anymore – keep an eye out for the orange ribbons! They’ll help guide you.

I highly recommend bringing some gloves, as it can become a difficult scramble around the halfway point. You may need to use your hands to keep yourself stable. After around 2 hours you’ll be rewarded with stunning views over the Whitemans pond and its neighbouring mountain Ha Ling peak – this makes a fantastic spot to watch the sunrise (or sunset). The summit can get extremely windy in this part of Alberta, so be careful!

Valley of the Five Lakes

The Valley of the Five Lake hike is one of the shortest day hikes on our list in Alberta. At an average of 1.5 hours to complete, it’s a simple trail that doesn’t take much effort, which means anyone can enjoy it. With a very low elevation, this is the perfect short walk without breaking a sweat. There are two steep sections, but for no more than a few steps. Some parts of the trail get very narrow, you may have to walk single file if travelling in a group. Along the way, you’ll have multiple opportunities to stop and enjoy the lake views at the many openings by the water’s edge.

Ha Ling Peak

Take in the view from HaLing peak

If you did the East End of Rundle trail, you’d be able to see Ha Ling Peak in your view, but what about climbing Ha Ling for yourself? One of the more moderate day hikes in Alberta, this trail has chains to use as handrails to help you when you’re climbing up due to the uneven terrain. In typical Alberta fashion, it can be extremely windy when you get to the peak, so be mindful that it can throw you off balance if you’re not careful.

Along the route, you’ll have the chance to stop for photos on a few flat viewpoints before you reach the summit of Ha Ling Peak. From the top, you’ll see the town of Canmore as well as much of the Bow Valley down below. It’ll take you an average of 4-5 hours to reach the summit and make it back down the trail.

The Big Beehive

This hike puts a new spin on a world-famous lake in Banff National Park. The Big Beehive trail is only really accessible during the summer months and can get quite busy during this peak season. As it is a loop trail, you can continue through the entire trail without backtracking, meaning you get fresh views for the entire route.

Most average hikers with a good level of fitness can finish this trail in under 6 hours, making it suited for a day hike. This trail has a few different highlights including Lake Louise, Mirror Lake, and the tea house before heading to the summit, this just gives you plenty of photo opportunities to enjoy!

Grassi Lakes

The Grassi Lakes hike offers options for both beginner and advanced hikers

Also in Canmore, The Grassi Lakes hike is probably one of the most easy-to-do short day hikes in Alberta. Although this hike is rated as number 1 in the region on Alltrails, every time I have been I’ve seen no more than 3 others on the trail. This is a walking route the whole family can enjoy! It’s a trail with two options, the easy way and the more difficult way, and even as a loop they only take between 1 and 2 hours to complete.

The easy way takes you up a gradual hill through the forest until you reach the 2 small lakes and beautiful viewpoint. Whereas the more difficult way keeps you on lower elevation until the last portion of the trail. This is where you come across a large waterfall and steep staircase built into the cliff. This can become slippery due to water spray, so hold onto the rails, but make sure you enjoy the view!

Lake Louise Lakefront Trail

The Lake Louise Lakefront Trail is another one of Alberta’s short day hikes at only 1.5 hours to complete. This one takes you along the edge of the turquoise Lake Louise – a nice change compared to the Big Beehive trail that takes you up and over the lake for a birds-eye view.

With barely any elevation, you won’t end up with muscle aches, which I’m sure you’ll be thankful for. In the summer you can walk around the lake, and during the winter you can even walk on it when it freezes over. This is a year-round accessible trail for people with all fitness levels.

Prairie Mountain

Summiting Prairie Mountain

Average hikers finish the Prairie Mountain hike in 2 hours (1 hour up and just over an hour down) but many can finish quicker in clear weather. The trailhead starts southwest of Bragg Creek near the Elbow River. Although steep, (the trail reaches an elevation of 666 m), it’s a pretty easy walk for most of the way up and accessible for most fitness levels.

There are endless mountain views from the viewpoint across the valley, so Prairie Mountain is one of the best day hikes in Alberta to avoid the crowds. Although this is a hike that can be accessed all year round, the driving access road usually closes for the winter due to weather conditions. If you do decide to hike Prairie Mountain during the colder months, crampons and spikes are recommended, as the scramble can get a bit slippery. When you make it to the top, you’ll have a nice surprise, seeing the flag waving at the summit!

Boom Lake Trail

The Boom Lake Trail is another trail with minimal incline and is more of a stroll than a hike. It takes roughly 3.5 hours to complete, so it’s perfect if you’re looking for a day hike in Alberta. As an out and back trail, you’ll need to backtrack once you get to the lake to reach the Boom Lake Trail finish line. As you walk along the track, you will see a few small streams as you head towards Boom Lake. In summer, they are crystal clear and flowing and add to the beauty of the region.

In the winter months, these streams can become dangerously icy along the trail, so use caution. When hiking during summer and spring, you can expect to see a stunning bright blue lake that Canada is known for. Take it in and enjoy your reward for walking the trail!

Summary

There you have it, 8 fun day hikes in Alberta that offer great views of the province! Of course, if I listed every single one we would be here for days, so I have handpicked some of the most enjoyable – but also less busy – trails for hikers to enjoy without being stuck in a crowd. Because let’s face it, nobody likes having to line up for a photo op at a viewpoint!

The Best Day Hikes in Alberta Canada to Avoid the Crowds

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May 1, 2023/2 Comments/by Michelle O'Donnell

12 Hiking Movies and Documentaries to Inspire Your Adventures

Travel Stories

If you’re looking for ideas for your next trek, want to reminisce about a former adventure, or just love the great outdoors, any one of these great hiking movies should be just the ticket. Even if you just want to live vicariously through the main characters, a hiking movie is a great choice– the stories take place in gorgeous locations and usually center around overcoming hardships– a recipe for a great movie night.

So without further ado, here’s a list of the best hiking movies and documentaries for a thrilling experience without leaving your couch.

1. Mile… Mile and a Half

Set on the John Muir Trail

This adventure documentary depicts a month-long hike on California’s John Muir Trail. The hikers themselves also happen to be professional photographers, so the epic film is also full of California landscape eye-candy.

This beautiful hiking movie is a must-watch for anyone who has dreamed of taking a few weeks to go backpacking in nature.

Watch for free on Amazon

2. Tracks

Set in Australia

This Australian film is inspired by a true adventure: In the late 1970s, a young woman walked across Australia without much more than our dog and four camels. It took eight months and 2,700 kilometers across Australia’s harsh outback to complete the journey.

The leading character is cut from a different cloth compared to the heroines of a lot of the other solo female travel movies, and the stunning film adaptation allows you to follow her on a journey that very few people will ever take.

Watch for free on Amazon

3. Edie

Set in the UK

Edie, one of the best hiking movies

This heartwarming hiking movie tells the story of a woman in the sunset years of her life who fulfills a lifelong dream. Instead of going into the retirement home her family plans for her, she decides to go hiking in the Scottish highlands. Even with 80+ years, Edie proves that anything is possible.

Watch with Amazon Prime

4. The Way

Set on the Camino de Santiago in Northern Spain

The Way is the story of a father who walks the Camino de Santiago in honor of his son. Anyone thinking of walking the famous pilgrimage route should catch this hiking movie about backpacking from France to the western coast of Spain.

The film will give you a glimpse into the Spanish countryside and the different types of travelers that you are likely to meet on the trail.

Watch it on Amazon

5. It is the People

Set on the Pacific Crest Trail

This is one of the best hiking movies about the Pacific Crest Trail– it’s beautifully shot and masterfully edited. Anyone who dreams of the PCT will love this short adventure documentary about backpacking that depicts the raw experiences and cast of characters you’re likely to meet along this famous west coast trail. The real stories and personalities of the outdoors adventurers will inspire you to plan your own trip as soon as you can.

Watch for free on Youtube

6. Into the Wild

Set in Alaska

This moving film is a visual treat and a beautiful tribute to a man who felt compelled to go off the beaten path and immerse himself in nature. Though the ending is tragic, anyone who hears the call of the wild can relate to the spirit of the main character and his search to discover the natural beauty of this earth.

In addition to being a gorgeous film, it also features one of the best travel-themed soundtracks of all time. It’s a classic backpacking movie that is a must-watch for any true explorer and is available on Amazon.

Watch it with Paramount+ on Amazon

7. Wildlike

Set in Alaska

This indie adventure film set in the Alaskan wilderness has won multiple awards at film festivals. The wild Alaskan frontier serves as the background, and reflects the personal hardships that the main characters are trying to overcome.

It’s the perfect film for anyone who likes the great outdoors but also wants the watch a character-driven survival story.

Watch with Amazon Prime

8. Wild

Set on the Pacific Crest Trail

Solo female backpackers everywhere have been inspired by this hiking movie. Here is the true story of Sheryl Strayed, who embarked on the Pacific Crest Trail after a deep heartbreak. Besides the beautiful images of the Western U.S. landscapes, we love the adventure film for its depictions of everyday struggles that every long-haul backpacker has experienced.

Rent it on Amazon

9. Jungle

Set in the Amazon Rainforest

Based on a true story, Daniel Ratcliffe plays the main character who has to survive in the Amazon Rainforest after getting lost during a backpacking adventure with his friends.

Hopefully, none of us will have to experience the near-death experiences depicted in this survivalist film, but from the safety of your own couch, you can watch how this ultimate backpacking adventure goes down. This is one of the best hiking movies for anyone who wants to see the resilience of the human spirit go head to head with the raw power of nature.

Watch with Amazon Prime

10. Do More With Less

Set on the Pacific Crest Trail

This hiking documentary shows short interviews with over 100 hikers on the Pacific Crest Trail. Some of them have been returning to the trail year after year, some are doing the trail for the first time in their life.

The hiking movie captures the sense of community on the Pacific Crest Trail and the inner passion for the great outdoors. Plus, the genuine and inspiring people depicted will give you hope in humanity. Once you see the film, you’ll probably start planning your PCT trip.

Watch for free on Vimeo

11. Touching the Void

Set in the Peruvian Andes

Touching the Void is another epic backpacking and adventure film that is based on a true survival story. Touching the Void recreates a harrowing trek in the Peruvian Andes, where two friends have to figure out how to overcome the impossible.

Watch free on Pluto TV

12. A Walk in the Woods

Set on the Appalachian Trail

There are a few hiking movies about the Appalachian Trail, but this classic is one of our favorites. The charming story features a stellar cast that includes Nick Nolte, Robert Redford, and Emma Thompson. What more could you want out of a hiking movie?

Watch free on Pluto TV

March 2, 2023/by Monica Woerner