Whether you want east coast or west, Europe or North America, these are the best hikes in the world to experience surreal fall foliage, temperate weathers for multi-day treks, and seasonal wonders. Pack your backpack and head to one of these hiking trails for fall 2017.
1 Laugavegur and Fimmvorduhals Pass
With more beauty and diverse landscape than you can ever hope to see on one trek, Iceland offers it all in the fall before the snow takes over and turns this island into an icy wonderland. Prepare for colder temperatures, but this 50-mile, four-day hike will allow you to see the results of volcanic eruptions, open plains, and gorgeous mountains that only Iceland can offer. If you take the “scenic route”, which is really saying something in Iceland, this hike can take you to the famous Icelandic landmark, the Skogafoss waterfall.
2 Inca Trail, Peru
Experience a backpacking trip like never before. If you have heard of hiking, then you have heard of the Inca Trail. Beautiful with moderate temperatures in September, you will see jungles, mountains, and ancient ruins. A popular trail, you must journey up the trail with a guide. But this only adds to the experience and culture that come as a wonderful bonus to this natural wonder. The reward at the end of this 26-mile trek is the unbeatable Machu Picchu.
3 Fitz Roy, Patagonia
Patagonia is a mecca for hikers and adventurers. With slightly cooler temperatures and softer winds, this otherworldly location in the fall offers less crowds and more nature than your average backpacking hike. It starts off easy, and you work your way up to the strenuous push to the top. The penultimate view of this full-day trek gives you a stunning look on the most recognizable rock structure in all of Patagonia.
4 Sentiero Azzurro, Cinque Terre
Also known as the “Blue Trail”, this coastal Italian jewel offers many great hiking and walking trails. This hike can take up to six hours if you wish to walk the entire length. But, the best way to experience it is to stop at the little towns along the way and enjoy the fine Italian cuisine and beautiful fall colours in this already colourful region. Start in Riomaggiore and work your way over to the northern Monterosso. This is an easy to moderate hike with paved and natural paths.
5 Te Araroa, New Zealand
The land of a thousand vistas has never looked better than on the Te Araroa Trail. This huge trail covers almost 2,000 miles of all New Zealand has to offer – mountain ranges, volcanoes, jungles, and sandy beaches. The entire thing could take you five months to complete, or you could choose a section, like the bays along Queen Charlotte Track. It is best enjoyed in late October, when the weather is moderate and the days are sunny and consistent.
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6 Tour du Mont Blanc, Switzerland, Italy, and France
Can’t choose just one country for an amazing fall hike this year? How about three countries, all covered by the surreal Mont Blanc circuit. This is perfect for an early Fall European adventure, and you can hike it in about a week. Trek over the high peaks of Switzerland and France, and enjoy nights in a tent or in one of the huts that line the trails along the way. Seeing snow-capped mountains in early fall is a site that you will never forget.
7 Appin Road, Canada
There is nothing quite like the east coast of Canada in the fall. You will see some of the brightest and most beautiful fall foliage in the entire world in this northern country. And this is never more true than this Prince Edward Island hike, surrounded by a canopy of changing leaves in the old trees. This twisting trail takes you along a path that dates back to 1862, when farmers and settlers began to shape this country.
8 Bad Urach, Germany
This easy, short hike in the southern part of Germany is excellent for beginners, families, or those short on time. The hike starts near the train station, and leads a few miles upwards to a fairy-tale-like waterfall. The marshy surroundings and greenery give bright and crisp colours—perfect for fall photography.
9 Beaver Loop, Michigan, USA
A charming trail hidden inside Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, the multi-coloured hues of Michigan stand tall in autumn. With tall forests and sandstone cliffs, the contrast between the forested edge and the coasts and cliffs provides dramatic and breathtaking views. This hike is perfect for adventurers of all experience levels.
10 Bay of Fires, Australia
One of the only hikes on this list that must be experienced on a tour. Even if you prefer solo hiking, this Tasmanian hike is worth it. Visit in the month of October and get transported to another world. Think rose-hued sandy shores, stark-red lichen, and clear, turquoise waters as the stunning backdrop of this guided hike.
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Are you ready for a new adventure and unforgettable hiking experience? The fall season is already here and Oktober is just around the corner, which means the foliage will soon start appearing.
