Hiking

Hiking has always been a transformative experience for me—a blend of physical challenge, raw connection to nature, and self-discovery. There’s something pure about the rhythmic crunch of boots on a trail and the feel of the cool morning air as the world unfolds step by step.

The rewards of hiking go far beyond physical effort. Standing atop a summit, soaking in a view you’ve earned, is an unparalleled satisfaction and confidence booster. For me, hiking clears the mental clutter, offering clarity and presence that daily life often obscures. Exploring trails in new destinations adds cultural richness, revealing how communities harmonize with their landscapes. For me, hiking is more than just a trek—it’s a way to connect deeply with the world and rediscover my place in it.

Top 10 Hikes I’ve Done

I try to hike everywhere I go, so it’s tough to pick favorites. These 10 stick out to me. Some of these are day hikes, and some are epic pilgrimages!

Camino de Santiago – Spain
Dolomites Alta Via 1 – Italy
Carrowteige Cliff Hike – Ireland
Cami de Ronda Coastal Hike – Spain
Annapurna Circuit – Nepal
Bluebird Lake – Rocky Moutain NP
Kerry Way Hike – Ireland
Kumano Kodo Hike – Japan
East Coast Trail – New Foundland
Michinoku Coastal Trail – Japan

Hiking Pilgrimages Around the World

Ever since I completed the Camino de Santiago solo, I have been on a quest to find the great pilgrimages or multi-day hikes around the world and do them. These are all where you can stay in real beds and have your luggage transported!
Here are a few I’ve done so far – but I have many more on my wish list.

Kumano Kodo Trail, Japan: A Complete Guide Answering All FAQs

Everything You Need to Know About Walking Saint Olav’s Way in Norway

Absolutely Everything to Know About Hiking the Camino de Ronda

Hike the Alta Via 1 in the Dolomites with a Group

Hiking the East Coast Trail Newfoundland

The Ultimate Guide to Walking the West Highland Way

Everything you Need to Know About Hiking the Annapurna Circuit

Hiking the Lycian Way FAQs

Camino de Santiago: 23 of the Most Frequently Asked Questions

Upcoming Ottsworld Small Group Hiking Tours

Explore all tours

Epic Nepal Trekking Tour – Women Only

Sep 16-29, 2025 Women Only Moderate Overview Join me and World Expeditions for a unique women’s adventure in the Everest Region of Nepal. As part of World Expeditions’ 50th Anniversary trek series, this trip offers a perfect mix of outdoor exploration and cultural immersion. You’ll enjoy the company of like-minded female trekkers as we journey…

Featured Hiking Travel Articles

A Week in Rocky Mountain National Park – Hikes, Tips, and Gear

Training for Hiking: A Plan For Longer Distance Hikes

Maine Huts and Trails Hiking

How to do No Trace Hiking and Camping

Best Hikes in the World I’ve Personally Completed

Things They Don’t Tell You About Kilimanjaro

Trekking in the Oman Mountains

Hiking Gear

There are many kinds of hiking – day, multi-day, long-distance, circuit, pilgrimages, hut-to-hut hikes, bushwalking, thru-hikes, and more. Over the years, I’ve gotten a lot of practice at packing the perfect hiking gear for the specific hike I’ve got planned. Check out my essential hiking packing list!

Essential Hiking Gear