Epic Hikes of the World

Synopsis

With stories of 50 incredible hiking routes in 30 countries, from New Zealand to Peru, plus a further 150 suggestions, Lonely Planet's Epic Hikes of the World will inspire a lifetime of adventure on foot. From one-day jaunts and urban trails to month-long thru-hikes, cultural rambles and mountain expeditions, each journey shares one defining feature: being truly epic.

In this follow-up to Epic Bike Rides and Epic Drives, we share our adventures on the world's best treks and trails. Epic Hikes is organised by continent, with each route brought to life by a first-person account, beautiful photographs and charming illustrated maps. Additionally, each hike includes trip planning advice on how to get there, where to stay, what to pack and where to eat, as well as recommendations for three similar hikes in other regions of the world.

Hikes featured include:

Africa & the Middle East:

• Cape Town's Three Peaks (South Africa)
• Kilimanjaro (Tanzania)
• Camp to Camp in South Luangwa National Park (Zambia)

Americas:

• Angel's Landing, Zion National Park (USA)
• Skyline Trail, Jasper National Park (Canada)
• Concepción volcano hike (Nicaragua)

Asia:

• 88 Sacred Temples of Shikoku Pilgrimage (Japan)
• Markha Valley (India)
• Gubeikou to Jinshanling on the Great Wall (China)

Europe:

• Wordsworth's Backyard: Dove Cottage and around Rydal and Grasmere (UK)
• Alpine Pass Route (Switzerland)
• Camino de Santiago (Spain)

Oceania:

• Sydney's Seven Bridges Walk (Australia)
• The Routeburn Track (New Zealand)
• Kokoda Track (Papua New Guinea)

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Summary

Chapter 1: The Himalayas

* Explores iconic treks to Mount Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, and Kanchenjunga Base Camp.
* Real example: A six-week expedition to Mount Everest Base Camp, with breathtaking views of the world's tallest peak and a challenging route through high-altitude passes.

Chapter 2: The Andes

* Highlights legendary hikes along the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, the W Trek in Torres del Paine, and the Huayhuash Circuit.
* Real example: A 10-day trek along the Inca Trail, offering a profound immersion in ancient Incan history and stunning Andean scenery.

Chapter 3: The Alps

* Features classic ascents of Mont Blanc, the Matterhorn, and the Eiger Trail.
* Real example: A two-day climb of the Matterhorn, demanding technical skills and a sense of adventure amidst towering granite spires.

Chapter 4: The Rockies

* Chronicles epic hikes in Banff National Park, Jasper National Park, and the Canadian Rockies.
* Real example: A seven-day circuit around Mount Assiniboine, known for its pristine lakes, rugged peaks, and abundant wildlife.

Chapter 5: The Pyrenees

* Unveils the remote and beautiful trails of the Pyrenees, including the GR11 and the GR10.
* Real example: A six-day traverse of the GR11 from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean, offering panoramic views of the Pyrenees mountains and a chance to explore ancient mountain villages.

Chapter 6: The Scottish Highlands

* Celebrates the dramatic landscapes of the West Highland Way, the Great Glen Way, and the Skye Trail.
* Real example: A three-day hike along the Skye Trail, showcasing the Isle of Skye's stunning coastline, towering cliffs, and tranquil lochs.

Chapter 7: The Patagonia

* Presents unforgettable journeys through Torres del Paine National Park, the Fitz Roy Massif, and the Cape Horn.
* Real example: A 12-day trek around Torres del Paine, passing by iconic peaks, turquoise lakes, and immense glaciers.

Chapter 8: The Atlas Mountains

* Explores the adventurous trails of the High Atlas Mountains in Morocco.
* Real example: A four-day hike to Mount Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa, offering breathtaking views of the rugged Atlas ranges.

Chapter 9: The Appalachians

* Highlights the epic hikes of the Appalachian Trail, the Long Trail, and the Georgia Mountains.
* Real example: A two-week section hike of the Appalachian Trail through Virginia, experiencing rolling hills, lush forests, and panoramic views.

Chapter 10: Antarctica

* Introduces polar expeditions to the Antarctic Peninsula, including trips to the Ross Sea and the South Pole.
* Real example: A 10-day expedition to Antarctica, offering encounters with penguins, whales, and seals while exploring the vast and pristine frozen landscapes.