The New Year is a great time to pause, reflect, and refocus. As we settle back into our routines, it's the perfect moment to set new goals and approach life with fresh energy, and what better way than to take on something that improves your physical and mental health—trekking. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced hiker, there's always a new trail to explore or a fresh challenge to tackle. We've rounded up some of the best hiking destinations across the world to help you set your trekking goals for 2025.

Easy Treks

Cinque Terre - Italy

If you love the beach, the Cinque Terre is a perfect way to ease into trekking. This stunning trail follows Italy’s Ligurian coastline, connecting five colorful villages: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. The most popular route, the Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail), offers breathtaking ocean views connecting the five charming villages. Trains and ferries conveniently connect the villages, offering flexibility to explore at your own pace. After a day on the trail, spend evenings unwinding in cafes or strolling the vibrant streets.

Camino de Santiago - Spain

Camino de Santiago is one of the most famous pilgrimages in the world, attracting hundreds of thousands of walkers each year. This historic trail leads to the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral where Saint James is believed to be buried. With seven well-known routes, you can choose anything from beginner-friendly walks to challenging treks spanning 70 to 600 miles (100 to 900 km). Whether you dedicate a few days or several weeks, Camino de Santiago offers a unique blend of culture, connection, and personal reflection.

Kumano Kodo - Japan

The Kumano Kodo is a historic pilgrimage route in Japan, leading to the Kumano Sanzan, three sacred shrines: Kumano Hongu Taisha, Kumano Nachi Taisha, and Kumano Hayatama Taisha. This UNESCO World Heritage Site combines spiritual significance with breathtaking natural beauty, offering lush forests, dramatic waterfalls, and stunning coastal views. The main route is Nakahechi while the Kiiji route is known for its scenic views and Iseji is considered the hardest. With many more trails for all skill levels, from short day hikes to multi-day journeys, the Kumano Kodo is a great addition to your 2025 trekking bucket list. 

Moderate to Difficult Treks

Everest Base Camp - Nepal

For experienced trekkers seeking a challenge, the Everest Base Camp trek is a must-do adventure. This iconic route leads you deep into the Khumbu region, offering breathtaking views of towering peaks like Everest, Lhotse, and Manaslu. While summiting Everest may not be your goal, standing face-to-face with the world’s highest mountain is no small feat. Along the journey, soak in Buddhist and Nepali culture, with stops at traditional villages, colorful prayer flags, and ancient monasteries. Nights are spent in cozy teahouses, providing a warm and authentic experience. 

Tour Du Mount Blanc - France

After conquering the Himalayas, take your alpine skills to the next level with the Tour du Mont Blanc trek, one of Europe’s best and most popular long-distance hikes, which circles the majestic Mont Blanc massif. Spanning over 100 miles (170 km), this circuit takes you through France, Italy, and Switzerland, offering a stunning blend of cultures and landscapes. Lasting up to two weeks, you get plenty of time to soak in incredible views of snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and alpine meadows. A challenging yet rewarding adventure, trekking Mont Blanc is perfect for those looking to push their limits.

Mount Kilimanjaro - Tanzania

Despite being the highest peak in Africa at 19,341 feet (5,895 mt), Mount Kilimanjaro is  less technical than Everest, making it ideal for trekkers with high-altitude trekking experience. Mount Kilimanjaro remains a challenging trek due to its height, low oxygen levels, and strong winds. Offering seven official routes to ascend and descend, each with its unique features: Lemosho, Lemosho Western-Breach, Machame, Marangu, Mweka, Rongai, Shira, and Umbwe, whether you're aiming for the classic routes or looking for something more remote, Mount Kilimanjaro promises a rewarding adventure with panoramic views.

Inca Trail - Peru

South America offers equally extraordinary trekking opportunities and the Inca Trail is a bucket-list trek that leads you to the awe-inspiring ruins of Machu Picchu in Peru. Usually between four days to a week, the Inca Trail takes you through cloud forests, ancient stone paths, and dramatic mountain passes, offering breathtaking views of the majestic Andes. Along the way, you’ll visit ancient Inca ruins and end the trek with the unforgettable sight of Machu Picchu at sunrise. Because of its popularity, permits for Inca Trail treks are limited, so make sure to plan ahead for this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

W Trek - Patagonia, Chile

The W Trek in Torres del Paine National Park is one of South America's most iconic hikes. The route is named after the W shape it traces through the park’s stunning landscapes. As you trek, you’ll pass towering granite peaks, crystal-clear glacial lakes, and vast grasslands. The Base of the Towers, French Valley, and Glacier Grey are prominent highlights of the W Trek. With its well-marked paths, the W Trek offers an adventurous yet accessible way to experience the rugged beauty of Patagonia.

Dolomites -  Alta Via Trails, Italy

The Dolomites in northern Italy are a dream destination for trekkers, with the Alta Via trails offering an unforgettable adventure. Alta Via 1, the most popular route, takes more than a week to complete and showcases dramatic peaks, lush meadows, and welcoming mountain huts. The trail is challenging, with steep ascents and rocky terrain, but the views are worth every step. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Dolomites also offer rich historical and geological significance, making this trek an extra special experience.

Laugavegur Trail - Iceland

The Laugavegur Trail in Iceland is a must for any adventure lover. Spanning 34 miles (55 km) from Landmannalaugar to Thórsmörk, this three to four-day-long trek takes you through unique and diverse landscapes including colorful rhyolite mountains, steaming geothermal areas, black sand deserts, and lush valleys. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned trekker, you can stay in cozy mountain huts or camp under the open sky. This trek promises breathtaking views and a truly unforgettable experience.

Each trekking destination promises unforgettable memories. Make 2025 the year you step outside, take on new challenges, and explore the world one trek at a time!