The railway journeys capable of crossing entire continents
Anchored in the Atlantic Ocean, the Portuguese island of Madeira is celebrated for its stunning mountain scenery, a result of a thunderous volcanic past. Hike from Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo, the island's highest peak, and end up above the cloud line.
See also: Stunning nature photographs that look like paintings.
You can't miss the magnificent sea stacks known as the Twelve Apostles on this iconic coastal trail, located on Victoria's southwest coast.
This exciting route begins in California's Yosemite Valley and meanders through a wondrous wilderness and into the Sierra Nevada before terminating at the summit of Mount Whitney.
Almost 170 km (105 mi) in length, this moderate though occasionally challenging circuit exudes Alpine charm set as it is under the shadow of Western Europe's highest peak. Oh, and stepping into three different nations along the way is a novel treat.
The historical city of Petra, famous for its rock-cut architecture, greets those who complete this outstanding trail that cuts a path through the forested Dana Nature Reserve before meeting the desert.
Getting wet is part of the fun when trekking the Virgin Narrows, located in Zion National Park. This dramatic slot canyon has walls reaching 300 m (1,000 ft ), but in some places the river is just 6 m (20 ft) wide.
Mount Robson, the Valley of a Thousand Falls, and glacial Berg Lake itself number just some of the mesmerizing natural wonders characterizing this Canadian Rockies favorite.
Luring the independent backpacker to the southwestern edge of Vancouver Island is this wild and untamed route that tests even the most seasoned hiker. You'll be at one with Mother Nature, and occasionally at her mercy too.
Experienced hikers will take this colossal 1,700 km (1,056 mi) challenge across the Nepalese Himalaya in their stride. Less seasoned exponents can opt for one of the lower altitude trails.
Connecting the village of Alcoutim in the east to the Cabo de São Vicente lighthouse in the west, the 300-km (186-m) Via Algarviana long-distance footpath spans the entire Algarve, taking in coast and countryside.
This epic hike is best undertaken in spring or fall, though winter excursions are rewarded with some sparkling, fairy-tale photo opportunities. The distance covered is around 70 km (44 mi).
Following this trail is to rediscover Alaska's and Yukon Territory's gold mining history. Routes include the Golden Stairs and The Scales. Feeling lucky?
One of nine islands in the Azores archipelago, Flores offers a unique hiking experience by way of the West Coast Walk, the most westerly hiking trail in Europe!
The "King's Trail" is an inspiring 442-km (275-m) traverse across the country's Arctic tundra, with Sweden’s highest peak, Mount Kebnekaise, providing a fitting finale.
A world-renowned trek located on North Island, Tongariro is steeped in Maori myth. The unworldly terrain fuels the legends. A hike that will linger in the memory for years.
During World War II, Japanese and Australian troops fought and died along this track during a particularly bloody campaign. Today, different challenges face those attempting this arduous hike, not least torrential rain, suffocating humidity and an alarming array of bugs and critters.
The country's most famous hiking trail links Landmannalaugar with Thórsmörk and a classic "Land of Ice and Fire" landscape of glaciers, hot springs, and steaming fumaroles.
Browse the gallery and take a walk on the wild side.
Footsteps of adventure: Epic hiking destinations
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TRAVEL Walks
Did you know that Chile has a huge hiking route through its Patagonian wilderness? This is just one of the destinations that has got outdoor enthusiasts reaching for their boots and walking poles. Indeed, there are many places in the world where adventure tourists explore exciting destinations on foot.
Browse the gallery and take a walk on the wild side.