Looking for an amazing hike but don't have unlimited time off? Get the most hiking bang for your buck with our list (presented in no particular order) of some of our favorite trails that are 100 miles are less.

1) High Sierra Trail - California

 

 

The High Sierra Trail is a magnificent trail that spans 72 miles (116 k) across the Sierra Nevada mountain range in California, USA. The trail starts from the Giant Forest in Sequoia National Park and ends at the top of Mount Whitney, the highest peak in the contiguous United States. This beautiful and challenging trek takes approximately 6 to 10 days to complete, depending on your pace and fitness level.

Located in the Sierra Nevada mountain range, the High Sierra Trail boasts some of the most breathtaking and diverse scenery in the country. Trekkers will encounter alpine meadows, glacial canyons, rushing rivers, towering waterfalls, and panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada's rugged peaks. The trail is also known for its diverse wildlife, including black bears, marmots, and bighorn sheep.

The High Sierra Trail is considered a strenuous hike, and it requires a good level of fitness and experience. The trail has an elevation gain of over 13,000 feet, with a maximum altitude of 14,505 feet at the top of Mount Whitney. The trail has some challenging sections, including steep switchbacks, river crossings, and high-altitude trekking. Hikers should be prepared for variable weather conditions, including snow, hail, and thunderstorms.

One interesting fact about the High Sierra Trail is that it was built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), a work relief program created during the Great Depression. The trail was designed to provide access to the high country of the Sierra Nevada and to promote tourism in the region. Today, the High Sierra Trail remains a testament to the CCC's commitment to conservation and the preservation of America's natural landscapes.

In summary, the High Sierra Trail is an iconic trek that offers an unforgettable journey through some of the most stunning scenery in the United States. The trail's length, location, and difficulty make it a challenging but rewarding adventure for hikers of all experience levels. With its rich history and stunning natural beauty, the High Sierra Trail is a must-do trek for anyone who loves the great outdoors.

2) Art Loeb Trail - North Carolina

 

 

The Art Loeb Trail is a popular hiking trail in western North Carolina, USA. The trail is named after Art Loeb, a well-known hiker and conservationist who played a significant role in the development of hiking trails in the region. The Art Loeb Trail spans approximately 30 miles (48 km), starting in the Davidson River Recreation Area and ending in the Shining Rock Wilderness. This beautiful trail offers a challenging and rewarding trek through the stunning Appalachian Mountains.

Located in the Pisgah National Forest, the Art Loeb Trail offers some of the most spectacular scenery in North Carolina. Hikers can expect to see sweeping vistas, stunning waterfalls, dense forests, and rocky mountain peaks. The trail winds through several different ecosystems, including hardwood forests, high-elevation balds, and spruce-fir forests. Wildlife is abundant, and hikers may encounter black bears, deer, and a variety of bird species.

The Art Loeb Trail is considered a moderate to difficult hike, with significant elevation changes and rocky terrain. The trail features several steep ascents and descents, including a challenging climb to the top of Cold Mountain. Hikers should be prepared for variable weather conditions, including sudden thunderstorms and high winds. The trail is well-marked, but hikers should have experience with backcountry navigation.

One interesting fact about the Art Loeb Trail is that it was named in honor of Art Loeb. Loeb was a member of the Carolina Mountain Club and helped to create the Appalachian Trail and other hiking trails in the region. The Art Loeb Trail was established in 1968 and named in honor of Loeb after his death in 1964.

In summary, the Art Loeb Trail is a beautiful and challenging trek through the stunning Appalachian Mountains of western North Carolina. The trail's length, location, and difficulty make it a popular destination for hikers of all experience levels. With its breathtaking scenery, diverse ecosystems, and rich history, the Art Loeb Trail is a must-do hike for anyone looking to experience the beauty and majesty of the North Carolina mountains.

3) "W" Circuit - Chile / Patagonia

 

 

The W Circuit in Patagonia is a popular trekking route that winds through some of the most breathtaking scenery in South America. The trail is named for its W-shaped path, which explores the highlights of Torres del Paine National Park in Chile. The W Circuit covers approximately 50 miles (80 km), and hikers typically complete it in 4 to 5 days.

Located in the heart of Patagonia, the W Circuit is known for its stunning landscapes, including jagged peaks, glaciers, and turquoise lakes. The trail offers views of the famous Torres del Paine granite peaks, as well as the Grey Glacier and French Valley. The region is home to an array of wildlife, including guanacos, foxes, condors, and pumas.

The W Circuit is considered a challenging hike, with steep ascents and descents, rocky terrain, and unpredictable weather. Hikers should be prepared for high winds, rain, and snow, as well as sudden changes in temperature. The trail is well-marked and maintained, but hikers should have some experience with backcountry navigation.

One interesting fact about the W Circuit is that it was originally a horse trail used by gauchos to move cattle between estancias (ranches) in the region. The trail was later adapted for hikers, and in recent years, it has become a popular destination for trekkers from all over the world. Today, the W Circuit is considered one of the most iconic hiking routes in South America.

In summary, the W Circuit in Patagonia is an incredible trek that showcases some of the most stunning natural scenery in the world. The trail's length, location, and difficulty make it a challenging but rewarding adventure for hikers of all experience levels. With its rich history, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes, the W Circuit is a must-do hike for anyone looking to experience the beauty of Patagonia.

4) Wonderland Trail - Washington State

 

 

The Wonderland Trail is a 93-mile (150 km) hiking trail that circles around Mount Rainier, the highest peak in Washington state. The trail begins and ends at Longmire, passing through alpine meadows, dense forests, and glacier-carved valleys. The Wonderland Trail is considered one of the most iconic hiking routes in the Pacific Northwest and offers hikers a true wilderness experience.

Located in Mount Rainier National Park, the Wonderland Trail offers stunning views of glaciers, waterfalls, and mountain peaks. The trail traverses through several ecosystems, including subalpine meadows, old-growth forests, and high alpine terrain. Wildlife is abundant, and hikers may encounter black bears, elk, mountain goats, and other wildlife species.

The Wonderland Trail is considered a difficult hike, with over 22,000 feet of elevation gain and loss. Hikers should be prepared for steep ascents and descents, rocky terrain, and variable weather conditions. The trail is well-marked and maintained, but hikers should have experience with backcountry navigation.

One interesting fact about the Wonderland Trail is that it was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s. The CCC was a work relief program that provided jobs to young, unemployed men during the Great Depression. The workers built trails, roads, and other infrastructure in national parks across the country, including the Wonderland Trail.

In summary, the Wonderland Trail is an epic hiking route that offers hikers a true wilderness experience in one of the most stunning national parks in the United States. The trail's length, location, and difficulty make it a challenging but rewarding adventure for hikers of all experience levels. With its rich history, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes, the Wonderland Trail is a must-do hike for anyone looking to experience the beauty of Mount Rainier and the Pacific Northwest.

5) Foothills Trail - North & South Carolina

 

 

The Foothills Trail is a 77-mile (124 km) hiking trail that winds through the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in South and North Carolina. The trail stretches from Oconee State Park to Table Rock State Park, offering hikers a diverse range of landscapes, from dense forests to rolling hills and mountain vistas. The Foothills Trail is a relatively new trail, having been completed in 1981, and has quickly become a popular destination for hikers in the Southeast.

Located in the Upstate region of South Carolina, the Foothills Trail offers stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the surrounding countryside. The trail passes through several state parks, wilderness areas, and other protected lands, offering hikers a chance to explore some of the most pristine natural areas in the region. Wildlife is abundant, and hikers may encounter deer, black bears, bobcats, and other animals.

The Foothills Trail is considered a moderate hike, with several steep climbs and descents, rocky terrain, and river crossings. Hikers should be prepared for variable weather conditions, as temperatures can range from hot and humid in the summer to cold and windy in the winter. The trail is well-marked and maintained, but hikers should have some experience with backcountry navigation.

One interesting fact about the Foothills Trail is that it was built by volunteers, including many members of the local hiking and outdoor community. The trail was the brainchild of several outdoor enthusiasts who saw the potential for a long-distance hiking route in the region. Today, the Foothills Trail is maintained by a dedicated group of volunteers, who work to keep the trail in top condition for hikers and backpackers.

In summary, the Foothills Trail is an excellent hiking route that offers hikers a chance to explore some of the most beautiful natural areas in South Carolina. The trail's length, location, and moderate difficulty make it a great option for hikers of all experience levels. With its stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and rich history, the Foothills Trail is a must-do hike for anyone looking to experience the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Southeast.

6) Overland Track - Tasmania / Australia

 

 

The Overland Track is a 40-mile (64 km) hiking trail located in Tasmania, Australia. The trail traverses through the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, offering hikers a stunning journey through alpine terrain, dense rainforests, and glacial lakes. The Overland Track is considered one of the most iconic hiking routes in Australia, attracting thousands of hikers every year.

Located in the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, the Overland Track offers hikers some of the most breathtaking scenery in Australia. The trail passes through several ecosystems, including subalpine meadows, ancient rainforests, and rugged mountain terrain. Hikers will also encounter a diverse array of wildlife, including wallabies, wombats, echidnas, and Tasmanian devils.

The Overland Track is considered a moderate to difficult hike, with several steep ascents and descents, rocky terrain, and variable weather conditions. Hikers should be prepared for cold and wet weather, as temperatures can drop below freezing at night. The trail is well-marked and maintained, but hikers should have experience with backcountry navigation.

One interesting fact about the Overland Track is that it was originally used by the indigenous Tasmanians for thousands of years before European settlement. The trail was an important trade route, connecting the north and south of Tasmania. Today, the Overland Track is still an important cultural site for the indigenous Tasmanians, who have a deep connection to the land.

In summary, the Overland Track is an epic hiking route that offers hikers a chance to experience some of the most stunning natural landscapes in Australia. The trail's length, location, and moderate to difficult difficulty make it a challenging but rewarding adventure for hikers of all experience levels. With its rich cultural history, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking scenery, the Overland Track is a must-do hike for anyone looking to experience the beauty of Tasmania and Australia.

7) Timberline Trail - Oregon

 

 

The Timberline Trail is a 41.5-mile (67 km) hiking trail that encircles Mount Hood, the highest peak in Oregon. The trail offers hikers a journey through dense forests, alpine meadows, and glaciers, all while providing stunning views of Mount Hood and the surrounding landscape. The Timberline Trail is considered one of the best hiking trails in the Pacific Northwest, attracting hikers from around the world.

Located in the Mount Hood National Forest, the Timberline Trail offers hikers some of the most breathtaking scenery in Oregon. The trail passes through several ecosystems, including subalpine meadows, old-growth forests, and glaciers. Hikers will also encounter a diverse array of wildlife, including black bears, mountain goats, and elk.

The Timberline Trail is considered a moderate to difficult hike, with several steep ascents and descents, rocky terrain, and variable weather conditions. Hikers should be prepared for cold and wet weather, as temperatures can drop below freezing at night. The trail is well-marked and maintained, but hikers should have experience with backcountry navigation.

One interesting fact about the Timberline Trail is that it was built during the Great Depression as a way to create jobs for the unemployed. The trail was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps, a New Deal program that employed young men to work on public works projects. Today, the Timberline Trail remains an important cultural and historical site in Oregon.

In summary, the Timberline Trail is an epic hiking route that offers hikers a chance to experience some of the most stunning natural landscapes in Oregon. The trail's length, location, and moderate to difficult difficulty make it a challenging but rewarding adventure for hikers of all experience levels. With its rich cultural history, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking scenery, the Timberline Trail is a must-do hike for anyone looking to experience the beauty of Mount Hood and the Pacific Northwest.

8) Isle Royale - Michigan

 

 

The Isle Royale Trail is a 43-mile (69 km) hiking trail located on Isle Royale, a remote island in Lake Superior, Michigan. The trail offers hikers a unique and isolated wilderness experience, with stunning scenery and abundant wildlife. The Isle Royale Trail is considered one of the best hiking trails in the Midwest, attracting hikers from around the country.

Located in Isle Royale National Park, the Isle Royale Trail offers hikers some of the most breathtaking scenery in the Great Lakes region. The trail passes through dense forests, rocky terrain, and along the shores of Lake Superior. Hikers will also encounter a diverse array of wildlife, including moose, wolves, and loons.

The Isle Royale Trail is considered a moderate to difficult hike, with several steep ascents and descents, rocky terrain, and variable weather conditions. Hikers should be prepared for cold and wet weather, as temperatures can drop below freezing at night. The trail is well-marked and maintained, but hikers should have experience with backcountry navigation.

One interesting fact about the Isle Royale Trail is that it is one of the most remote hiking trails in the United States. The island is only accessible by boat or seaplane, and there are no roads or cars on the island. The remote location and lack of development make the Isle Royale Trail a true wilderness experience.

In summary, the Isle Royale Trail is a unique and isolated hiking route that offers hikers a chance to experience some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the Great Lakes region. The trail's length, location, and moderate to difficult difficulty make it a challenging but rewarding adventure for hikers of all experience levels. With its remote location, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking scenery, the Isle Royale Trail is a must-do hike for anyone looking to experience the beauty of Michigan's wilderness.

9) Laugavegur & Fimmvörðuháls Trails — Iceland

 

 

The Laugavegur and Fimmvörðuháls Trails are two connected hiking trails located in Iceland. Together, they form an incredible 34 mile (55 km) journey through some of the country's most stunning landscapes. The trails offer hikers an unforgettable adventure, with breathtaking views of glaciers, volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and waterfalls.

The Laugavegur and Fimmvörðuháls Trails are located in the southern highlands of Iceland, and are only accessible during the summer months (June-August). The trails begin in the Landmannalaugar geothermal area and end in the Þórsmörk valley, passing through the Fimmvörðuháls pass along the way. The trails are remote and isolated, offering hikers a true wilderness experience.

The Laugavegur and Fimmvörðuháls Trails are considered a moderate to difficult hike, with steep ascents and descents, variable weather conditions, and challenging terrain. Hikers should be prepared for cold and wet weather, as well as potential river crossings. The trails are well-marked and maintained, but hikers should have experience with backcountry navigation.

One interesting fact about the Laugavegur and Fimmvörðuháls Trails is that they are located in an active volcanic region. In 2010, the Eyjafjallajökull volcano erupted, causing widespread disruption to air travel around the world. The eruption also created a new crater on the Fimmvörðuháls trail, which has since become a popular destination for hikers.

In summary, the Laugavegur and Fimmvörðuháls Trails offer hikers a challenging and unforgettable journey through some of Iceland's most stunning natural landscapes. The trail's length, location, and moderate to difficult difficulty make it a challenging but rewarding adventure for hikers of all experience levels. With its unique geothermal features, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking scenery, the Laugavegur and Fimmvörðuháls Trails are a must-do hike for anyone looking to experience the beauty of Iceland's wilderness.

10) West Coast Trail — Canada

 

 

The West Coast Trail is a 47 mile (75 km) hiking trail located along the southwestern coast of Vancouver Island, Canada. The trail runs through the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve and offers hikers a rugged and challenging adventure through some of the most stunning coastal scenery in the world. The West Coast Trail is considered one of the top backpacking trails in North America.

The West Coast Trail is known for its challenging terrain and unpredictable weather. Hikers can expect to encounter rugged terrain, steep ladders, suspension bridges, and cable cars, all while navigating through the dense rainforest and rocky coastline. The trail is open from May to September, and permits are required for all hikers. The trail can take anywhere from 4-7 days to complete, depending on your pace and fitness level.

The West Coast Trail offers hikers some of the most beautiful and diverse scenery in the world. From towering old-growth forests and pristine beaches to rugged headlands and tidal pools, the trail is full of natural wonders. Hikers can also expect to see a variety of wildlife, including black bears, bald eagles, sea lions, and whales.

One interesting fact about the West Coast Trail is that it was originally used as a life-saving trail for shipwrecked sailors. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the treacherous coastline claimed many ships, and the trail was built to provide a way for survivors to reach safety. Today, the trail is maintained by Parks Canada and is recognized as a world-class hiking destination.

In conclusion, the West Coast Trail offers hikers a challenging and unforgettable journey through some of the most stunning coastal scenery in the world. The trail's length, location, and difficulty make it a true backcountry adventure for experienced hikers looking for a challenge. With its unique history, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking scenery, the West Coast Trail is a must-do hike for anyone looking to experience the beauty of Canada's wilderness.