Do you like walking in the wilderness? Do you ever enjoy solitude and venturing out in the open? If so, long-distance hiking could be exactly what you are looking for! Long-distance hiking can be thrilling, serene, and a wonderful means of gaining insight into yourself.
Here, we are discussing 10 fantastic long-distance hiking trails perfect for solo travelers. These hikes are safe, stunningly beautiful, and full of adventure.
What is Long-Distance Hiking?
Long-distance hiking involves walking a long trail, and it may take weeks or months, or even a year or more to complete. They are certainly not park walks. They involve walking through woods, mountainous terrain, and other types of wilderness areas.
Numerous individuals hike alone. They like the peace and tranquility, the test of endurance, and the time to contemplate. Solo hiking is intimidating at first, but also incredibly fulfilling.
Why Solo Hiking is Amazing
You are on your own pace.
You do not have to wait around for somebody else.
You have all of nature to yourself.
You learn how to solve things by yourself.
You are stronger and more confident.
Now, let us examine the Top 10 hiking trails for solo travelers.
Appalachian Trail – United States
The Appalachian Trail is commonly referred to as the AT. The trail is more than 2,000 miles long and begins in Georgia and ends in Maine.
What makes it so good for solo trekkers?
The path is marked quite clearly, so it is simple to track.
There are shelters and little huts where you sleep.
Numerous individuals hike on the trail annually, so do not expect to be by yourself for long.
Best Time to Go: April to October is optimum because it has better weather.
Advice:-Pack both warm and cold-weather clothing.
Develop a plan for emergencies and inform someone of your location.
West Highland Way – Scotland
The West Highland Way is a stunning Scottish trail with a length of around 96 miles. The trail begins close to Glasgow city and finishes in a town named Fort William.
What Makes it Ideal for Single-Day Hikers:
The route is simple to track with directions on the route.
The Scottish are also warm and welcoming to visitors.
You may sleep in small hotels or cabins on the route.
Ideal Time to Visit: Go between May and September to get the best weather.
Advice: Pack rainwear—it rains a lot in Scotland!
Reserve a spot to sleep in advance, particularly during summer.
Te Araroa Trail – New Zealand
Te Araroa is “The Long Pathway” in the Māori language. The trail spans the North and South Islands of New Zealand. The trail is over 1,800 miles long!
What Makes It Great for Solo Hikers:
It traverses hills, forests, and mountains.
New Zealand is a very safe country for traveling alone.
You encounter all kinds of hikers from all over the world.
Cheapest Time to Visit: November to April is summer in New Zealand, and it is the optimum time to visit.
Plan water and food stops as the trail is long.
Pack good footwear and supplies because certain parts are wild and far out.
Read- Top 10 Long-Distance Hiking Trails in Australia and New Zealand
Camino de Santiago – Spain
The Camino de Santiago is also referred to as The Way of St. James. The Camino de Santiago is a centuries-old route on which people have been walking for centuries. The route takes pilgrims to a city in Spain known as Santiago de Compostela.
What Makes It Great for Solos:
You have various options available to you, some brief and some extensive.
There are numerous hostels (budget accommodations to sleep) available exclusively for hikers.
Read- Women-Only Hostels and Hotels For Solo Female Travelers
You will encounter individuals from numerous countries.
Top Time to Visit: April through June and September through October are the times when it is best, with nice weather and fewer crowds.
Pack light clothing and a light rucksack.
The average person walks around 10-15 miles per day, so do not rush it.
Laugavegur Trail – Iceland
The Laugavegur Trail of Iceland is brief but full of stunning views. The trail is approximately 34 miles long. You get to view volcanoes, hot springs, mountains, and rivers all on a single hike!
What Makes It Great for Solo Hikers:
The path is extremely safe, and Iceland is amongst the safest nations on earth.
You can also sleep in trail-side huts.
It’s also relatively short, so it is perfect for beginner solo hikers.
Ideal Time to Visit: Visit between June, July, August, or early September when the weather is optimal.
Demographic
The weather turns rapidly, so dress in layers and expect rain or wind.
Take snacks and a water bottle with you. You may refill it from clean rivers.
Pacific Crest Trail – United States
The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) is a long trail—approximately 2,650 miles long! The trail begins on the Mexican border and passes through California, Oregon, and Washington to the Canada border.
What makes it so good for solo travelers?
The route is popular, and numerous individuals hike it and post tips on the web.
There are small towns located near the trail to pick up food and supplies.
You will encounter a lot of other solitary hikers.
Ideal Time to Visit: Hike between April and October to avoid snow.
Advice: You require a permit, so apply early.
Take sunscreen and a hat because it will get hot in the desert regions.
Kumano Kodo Path – Japan
The Kumano Kodo is a collection of ancient routes in Japan. They were used by travelers and pilgrims more than 1,000 years ago. They are in peaceful woods and end at special shrines and temples.
What Makes it Great for Solo Hikers:
The path has English signs posted, and it is extremely clean and safe.
You are able to sleep at the ryokan (Japanese inns) and sample traditional cuisine.
Peaceful and ideal for individuals who desire a serene adventure.
Best Time to Go: March to May and September to November are the best months to visit.
Advice: Try learning a few Japanese words—it helps!
Give good shoes—the roads are steep and rough.
Lycian Way – Turkey
The Lycian Way is a Turkish walking trail by the sea. The trail is over 300 miles long and borders the Mediterranean coast. There are cliffs and beaches and ruins from ancient civilizations.
What Makes It Great for Solo Hikers:
The route is marked well, and it is possible to do it in sections.
The locals are extremely friendly and helpful to visitors.
You are welcome to swim in the sea following a long hike!
Ideal Time to Visit: The months from April to June and from September to November are the best, not too hot.
Advice: Avoid hiking during the middle of summer because it’s extremely hot.
Pack a sun hat, water bottle, and sturdy shoes.
Overland Track – Australia
The Overland Track is a well-known walking track in Tasmania, part of Australia. The track is 40 miles long and takes between 5 and 7 days to complete. You will hike through woods and mountains and by stunning lakes.
What makes it so good for solo hikers?
The route is carefully planned out and has shelters to sleep in.
You require a permit, thus, the trail is less crowded.
Tasmania is safe, and its nature is incredible.
Best Time to Travel: Go in summer, between the months of December and March, when it is warmest.
Advice: Book early in advance because it is a permit system, and only a few individuals are allowed to hike.
Pack warm attire—it may get chilly even during summer.
Torres del Paine “O” Circuit – Chile (Patagonia)
The “O” Circuit is a popular trail in Patagonia’s Torres del Paine National Park. The “O” Circuit is a large loop that has you hiking through mountains, rivers, and green valleys as well as glaciers.
What makes it good for a solitary walker/hiker:
The park is safe and well-maintained even in out-of-the-way parts.
Along the route are also found campgrounds and shelters.
You will get to experience some of the world’s most stunning scenery!
Best Time to Go: Go between the months of November and March—summer in Patagonia.
Advice: The weather might also be quite cold and gusty, so dress warmly.
Book campsites in advance—they get occupied quickly.
Solo Long-Distance Hiking Tips
Here are some simple tips on how to stay safe and enjoy yourself:
Select the Right Trail: Choose a trail corresponding to your ability. Begin with a shorter trail if you are a beginner.
Pack Light but Smart: Do not pack too much. Only bring what is necessary:
Clothing for Various Weather Conditions
Foods and snacks
Water Bottle
GPS or Map
First-aid kit
Tell Someone: Before departing, say to a friend or relative:
Where are you going
When will you return
How to contact me
Take Your Time: You do not have to hurry to hike. Take in the scenery and stop when you are tired.
Be friendly: Even when hiking by yourself, it is a good thing to wave and greet the other hikers. You might even make some new friends!
Conclusion
Hiking alone is a wonderful way to discover the world, have some peaceful moments to yourself, and become a better person. These 10 hiking trails we discussed are stunning, thrilling, and perfect for individuals who prefer to hike alone. Whether hiking through Japanese woods, climbing mountain trails in Chile, or hiking along the coast in Turkey, a journey awaits you.
So pick up your backpack and hiking shoes and begin making plans to go on a solo adventure today. Nature is calling—are you answering?