The History of Famous Hiking Trails
The History of Famous Hiking Trails
Appalachian Trail
The Appalachian Trail is one of America’s premier long-distance trails. Extending over 2,000 miles through 14 states, it is a marvel of both nature and human dedication. Conceived by Benton MacKaye in 1921, the trail was designed for the growing class of urban workers seeking refuge in nature.
Construction began in 1925 with the formation of the Appalachian Trail Conference. Volunteers and state agencies worked arduously to piece together the trail from Georgia to Maine, with completion marked in 1937. Though it requires constant maintenance, the trail now draws millions of hikers annually.
Inca Trail
The Inca Trail leads to the ancient city of Machu Picchu in Peru. This trail is part of the larger Inca road system that spanned an incredible distance throughout the Inca Empire. Constructed in the 15th century under the direction of Emperor Pachacuti, it connected important cultural and administrative sites.
Rediscovered in the early 20th century by Hiram Bingham, the trail now offers a rigorous yet rewarding hike through mountain passes and cloud forests. It’s a vital link to the past, showcasing Inca engineering and offering an immersive historical experience.
Camino de Santiago
This trail, also known as the Way of St. James, has been a significant Christian pilgrimage route since the 9th century. The Camino descends on the city of Santiago de Compostela in Spain, where the apostle James’ remains are believed to be interred.
Originating from multiple points across Europe, the most traveled route is the Camino Francés. For centuries, it served not only as a religious journey but also as a means of cultural exchange. The modern resurgence of the Camino has made it a popular hiking route symbolizing spiritual and personal growth.
Pacific Crest Trail
Stretching from Mexico to Canada, the Pacific Crest Trail runs about 2,650 miles along the West Coast of the United States. The concept emerged in the 1930s, inspired by similar long-distance trails. However, it wasn’t until 1968 that the trail was officially designated as a National Scenic Trail.
Completed in 1993, this trail zigzags through diverse landscapes, from arid deserts to high mountain ranges. It has become iconic for its remote wilderness experience, attracting thousands of thru-hikers who attempt the whole trail each year.
Overland Track
Tasmania’s Overland Track is a 40-mile trail through the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. Used by indigenous Tasmanians long before European settlement, the trail was formally established in the 1930s.
It meanders through terrain ranging from dense rainforest to alpine plains. The Overland Track offers a more controlled experience, with regulated bookings to preserve its natural beauty. It remains one of Australia’s premier hiking destinations.
Via Francigena
As an ancient pilgrimage route, the Via Francigena links Canterbury in England to Rome in Italy. It dates back to at least 990 AD, based on records of Archbishop Sigeric who walked the route to receive his ecclesiastical pallium from the Pope.
Covering approximately 1,200 miles, it crosses diverse landscapes and historical sites. It provided a commercial and cultural gateway for medieval Europe. Today, it’s a quiet homage to the path walked by pilgrims centuries ago, offering a rich journey through history and tradition.
Milford Track
The Milford Track in New Zealand’s Fiordland National Park is often called “the finest walk in the world.” This reputation traces back to the late 19th century. Initially used by Maori for transporting greenstone, European exploration began with Donald Sutherland and John Mackay in the 1880s.
Officially opened in 1908, it covers about 33 miles through lush rainforests and along stunning fjords. The track has maintained its allure due to its isolation and the pristine beauty of its natural surroundings. Access is controlled with daily quotas to preserve the environment.
John Muir Trail
Named after the naturalist John Muir, the John Muir Trail in California spans about 211 miles from Yosemite Valley to Mount Whitney. The idea materialized in 1915, a year after Muir’s death. The trail was constructed over the following decades, largely through the efforts of the Sierra Club.
The completed trail offers a high-altitude hike through some of the most scenic areas of the Sierra Nevada range. From expansive valleys and vast wilderness regions, the trail is a testament to conservation efforts inspired by Muir’s legacy.
Hadrian’s Wall Path
Following the path of the ancient Roman wall built under Emperor Hadrian in 122 AD, Hadrian’s Wall Path crosses Northern England. Originally meant as a fortification against the northern tribes, the wall stretched for 73 miles from the North Sea to the Irish Sea.
Today, the trail allows hikers to trace the remains of this historical barrier. Opened officially for walking in 2003, it has become a journey through history, blending natural and archaeological beauty. It is a walking archive of Roman military engineering.
Torres del Paine Circuit
Located in Chile’s Torres del Paine National Park, this trail system is relatively young compared to others. National park status was designated in 1959. The main circuit, known as the O Circuit, circles the towering granite peaks and extensive glacial lakes unique to Patagonia.
The harsh and remote conditions of this region add to the allure. The trail offers a less-crowded and more rugged experience. It’s popular for its dramatic landscapes and biodiversity, making it a bucket-list destination for many avid hikers.