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Backpacking in another country is the ultimate adventure, offering a chance to explore some of the world’s most breathtaking and varied landscapes. From trekking along the world’s tallest mountains in the Himalaya to taking rugged adventures in the Australian outback, these epic journeys are more than just a test of physical endurance—they’re a way to dig deep into different cultures, uncover rich histories, and soak in stunning natural beauty without elbowing through crowds on more popular hiking trails. Whether you’re trekking through remote wilderness or tracing ancient pilgrimage paths, these seven relatively unknown (some even brand new) trails are worth a trip.
Hajar Mountains, United Arab Emirates
Admittedly, one doesn’t often think about mountains, backpacking, or “roughing it” in the United Arab Emirates. Most people are even surprised to hear that the country has mountains in the first place—skyscrapers and luxurious hotels are top of mind for the masses. However, for outdoor enthusiasts, the Hajar Mountains in Ras al Khaimah Emirati offer a different allure. The terrain here is an arid high altitude desert, lacking both tree cover and natural water sources. This makes for particularly challenging hiking conditions along the country’s longest trail system of nearly 62 miles, passing through high peaks like Jebel Jais (6,345 feet), remote tribal villages, and deep valleys.
You can hike the whole route in one go or in segments, like I did. The trails are accommodating enough to support day and overnight trips, where you can stay with local families to experience regional culture and cuisine with the region’s new hike-to-village initiative. This not only bridges the gap between mountain tribes and hikers, but also fosters community connections and boosts local economy through tourism. I spent three days in the Hajars, utterly captivated by the solitude of the trail and dramatic vistas of the Arabian Gulf and neighboring Oman at every turn.
Salzburg Summit Game, Austria
Deep in the heart of rural Austria, folklore comes to life via a seven-summit hiking experience across Salzburger Sportwelt. Local legend tells of a benevolent queen who transformed her trusted court into seven summits to protect her people for all eternity. Today, the seven-summit challenge invites hikers to undertake an expedition and experience the mountains with all their senses.
With access from different towns such as Filzmoos, Flachau, and St. Johann im Pongau, the mountains—Bischofsmütze (the queen), Saukarfunktel (the poet), Hochgründeck (the healer), Penkkopf (the mage), Lackenkogel (the watchman), Rossbrand (the scout), and Gerzkopf (the bearer of secrets)—each tell distinct stories of Austrian mythology. Historic mountain huts offer lodging along the route, and hikers can collect stamps in a special logbook available at the summits.
The Celtic Camino, Ireland and Wales
The new Wexford-Pembrokeshire Pilgrim Way spans 160 miles (including over 62 miles on a ferry over the Irish Sea) and intertwines the ancient histories of Wales and Ireland. Scheduled for full waymarking completion by this year, this route honors Saint Máedóc of Ferns and St. David of Wales. Starting in Ferns, Ireland, and concluding in pilgrimage-rich St. Davids, Wales, hikers can travel among other pilgrims to connect Rosslare to Fishguard. Along coastal paths, hikers explore rugged terrain leading to sandy beaches like Whitesands and picturesque coves such as Porthgain, full of seals, dolphins, and seabirds. Want to learn the local history? Guided walks in Pembrokeshire offer insights into local landmarks, while new accommodation options like churches and hostels provide a glimpse into the pilgrim experience of centuries past.
Manaslu Circuit Trek, Nepal
The Manaslu Circuit Trek, spanning 110 miles in Nepal’s Himalayan region, offers adventurers an unforgettable journey through diverse landscapes such as lush valleys, alpine meadows, and high elevation passes. Tracing around the side of Mt. Manaslu (26,781 feet), the world’s eighth-highest peak, this challenging trek is a test of endurance. Beginning in Kathmandu, it also winds through terraced agricultural fields, dense forests, and traditional Gurung and Tibetan villages.
The highlight is the crossing of the Larkya La Pass (16,752 feet) with panoramic views of the snow-covered Himalaya. Amidst breathtaking (literally, at that elevation) scenery, the trek reveals both the spiritual and cultural wealth of the region with ancient Buddhist monasteries, chortens, and prayer flags. Despite drawing fewer crowds, its remote location and rough terrain demand a high level of fitness and acclimatization, making knowledgeable guides essential. I recommend taking Intrepid Travel’s 16-day Nepal expedition, which provides experienced trek leaders, porters, and local experts for a safe, rewarding Himalayan adventure.
Larapinta Trek, Northern Territory Australia
The Larapinta Trail is an epic journey through the rugged heart of the Northern Territory’s outback. Spanning 145 miles, this new trail traverses the West MacDonnell Ranges where dramatic landscapes of red quartzite peaks and dry, scrubby grassland blend with local Indigenous culture and heritage. The trail starts at Alice Springs and follows a path through high ridgelines, deep gorges, and vast desert plains. Some highlights along the trek include Ormiston Gorge, known for its towering red walls, and Standley Chasm, which glows a bright orange in the afternoon sun. Want a guide? Check out Larapinta Culture, the only Aboriginal-owned and operated operation in the area. The guides use their connection to the Arrernte and Warlpiri clans to share traditions and bush survival skills. Accommodations are through purpose-built eco-campsites and meals often include regional dishes.
Tour des Combins, Switzerland and Italy
Tour des Combins is a 99-mile loop around the majestic Gran Combins massif (14,137 feet), unveiling lesser-known alpine trails between Switzerland and Italy. Starting from either the Swiss side or the Italian side, hikers pass characteristic villages while crossing several mountain passes and valleys.
The route showcases renowned peaks like Great Saint-Bernard at 8,100 feet, the Fenêtre de Durand at 9,177 feet, the Col du Basset at 9095 feet, and the Col de Champillon at 8,888 feet. Cozy mountain huts along the way provide lodging, and while the full tour typically comprises nine stages with 32,800 feet of elevation gain, hikers can take as little as four days to complete it. However, there are plenty of route variations and public transportation that allow for flexibility.
Namik Glacier Trek, Northern India
The Indian Himalaya offer incredible trekking options for all kinds of outdoor enthusiasts from the novice dayhiker to the most advanced adventurer. Travelers get to experience jaw-dropping scenery among (lesser known) epic peaks like Nanda Devi, Mt. Trishul, and Nanda Kot. The 53-mile Namik Glacier Trek located in the remote Kumaon region stands out for its breathtaking scenery and cultural richness. Starting from Munsiyari village, the 10-day journey winds through picturesque villages like Gogina and Namik, offering glimpses into traditional Kumaoni culture.
Always ready to greet hikers with a hot cup of lemon cha (tea) and Maggi noodles (Indian ramen), these local encounters were some highlights of my hike along with sweeping views of Mt. Trishul and Nanda Devi against the golden hues of the setting sun. The trail concludes at the Namik Glacier (11,800 feet) adorned with striking ice formations and sulfur springs. Along the way, ancient temples and historical sites add a spiritual, ancient dimension to the trek, making it a challenging yet rewarding adventure for nature lovers and history buffs alike.
From 2024