With over 61 million Americans participating in hiking activities in 2024 and the adventure tourism market valued at $406.12 billion globally, there’s never been a better time to lace up your boots and explore the world on foot. The industry is experiencing unprecedented growth, making hiking destinations more accessible and diverse than ever before.

If your idea of a vacation isn’t an all-inclusive resort doing the same mundane thing every day, then look no further! Here are 5 hiking vacations you can’t miss!

France

There are so many hidden gems for hiking vacations in France. Some are covered by snow in the winter seasons but are undiscovered beauties in the summer months. Mont Blanc hiking tours are a great place to start. Amazing food, equally breathtaking views, and the tallest mountain in France. What’s not to love? The French Alps offer everything from easy valley walks to challenging high-altitude treks, providing options for every fitness level and experience.

Italy

With locations like the Dolomites, the Tuscan hills, the Amalfi Coast, and the pebble beaches of Positano, what is there not to love about hiking vacations in Italy? The food is just a bonus, but the wine and vineyards are really the winning point. Italy’s diverse landscapes mean you can hike through ancient Roman ruins one day and traverse mountain peaks the next. The country’s well-maintained trail system and mountain huts make multi-day treks both comfortable and memorable.

Mongolia

Neighboring countries like Nepal, Mongolia are notorious for amazing hikes, and with that come the rewarding views at the top. On your journey, you may well cross paths with nomadic shepherds, walk with wild horses, and see sheep grazing on the green grass. Mongolia offers one of the world’s most authentic wilderness experiences, where hiking means truly disconnecting from the modern world and experiencing landscapes that have remained unchanged for centuries.

Switzerland

Switzerland is a hiker’s paradise, offering some of the most breathtaking trails in the world. Nestled in the heart of the Alps, the country is laced with well-marked paths that wind through snow-capped peaks, emerald valleys, and crystal-clear alpine lakes. From the famous Matterhorn in Zermatt to the rolling green meadows of the Bernese Oberland, Switzerland caters to every level of adventurer, whether you’re seeking a gentle scenic walk or a challenging multi-day trek. Along the way, hikers are treated to charming mountain huts, panoramic cable car rides, and fresh alpine air that makes every step feel invigorating. It’s a destination where natural beauty and accessibility come together, creating unforgettable hiking experiences year-round.

Nepal

Home to Everest, you don’t have to scale the tallest peak in the world to enjoy Nepal. Why not explore valleys and winding mountain paths, passing quaint villages on the way? If you really wanted to push the boat out, you could make the trip to Everest Base Camp and check off a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Adventure tourism is experiencing explosive growth, with soft adventure activities like hiking making up 65% of the market, making Nepal’s diverse trekking options more popular than ever.

These five destinations are just a fraction of the incredible hiking opportunities available worldwide. Whether you’re looking for challenging mountain ascents, cultural immersion, or simply the chance to disconnect from daily life, each offers rewards that will create lasting memories and perhaps spark a lifelong passion for adventure travel.