Hidden Gems: The Most Underrated Hiking Routes You Need to Explore This Year
Hidden Gems: The Most Underrated Hiking Routes You Need to Explore This Year
Nature offers some of the most breathtaking experiences, but many hikers stick to well-trodden trails like the Appalachian Trail or Yosemite’s High Sierra Loop. While these destinations are iconic, they can also be crowded, expensive, and difficult to secure permits for. That’s why exploring underrated hiking routes, those lesser-known trails that offer stunning scenery, solitude, and unforgettable adventures, can elevate your hiking experience.
This year, step off the beaten path and discover some of the world’s most hidden gems. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a beginner looking for a peaceful escape, these trails promise dramatic landscapes, rich wildlife, and a sense of discovery that mass-tourism destinations often lack.
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Why You Should Hike Off the Beaten Path
Before diving into the trails, let’s explore why underrated hiking routes are worth your time:
- Fewer Crowds , Enjoy nature without the long lines, noise, or overcrowded viewpoints.
- Authentic Experiences , Discover hidden waterfalls, secluded lakes, and untouched forests.
- Unique Landscapes , From volcanic peaks to ancient forests, these trails offer diverse scenery.
- Better Wildlife Encounters , Less human activity means more chances to spot rare animals.
- Affordability , Many underrated trails require no permits or have minimal fees.
- Personal Achievement , Exploring lesser-known routes adds a sense of adventure and discovery.
Now, let’s explore some of the best underrated hiking trails around the globe.
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1. The Grand Canyon’s Hidden Trail: The Bright Angel Trail (South Kaibab Extension)
While the South Rim of the Grand Canyon is famous, most hikers stick to the Bright Angel Trail. However, the South Kaibab Trail, a steeper, more challenging alternative, offers a quieter, more dramatic descent into the canyon.
Why It’s Underrated
- Fewer Hikers , The South Kaibab is less crowded than the Bright Angel, especially in the early morning.
- Steep & Scenic , The trail drops 1,200 feet in just 4.5 miles, offering cliffside views and tight switchbacks.
- No Water Needed , Unlike the Bright Angel, this trail doesn’t require carrying water (though hydration is still important).
- Sunset & Sunrise Magic , The golden light at dawn and dusk makes this trail feel even more special.
Key Details
- Distance: 4.5 miles (one-way)
- Elevation Drop: 1,200 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous (due to steep sections)
- Best Time to Go: Early morning to avoid heat and crowds
- Permits: Not required (but park entry fees apply)
Pro Tip: Combine this with a short hike to Hermit’s Rest for a full-day adventure with panoramic canyon views.
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2. The Secret Waterfall of Patagonia: Fitz Roy’s Laguna de los Tres
Argentina’s Fitz Roy (also known as Cerro Torre) is one of the most iconic peaks in Patagonia, but most hikers focus on the Lago de los Tres trail. However, the hidden waterfall near the lake is often overlooked, yet it’s one of the most stunning natural wonders in the region.
Why It’s Underrated
- A Hidden Waterfall , The Laguna de los Tres waterfall cascades into the lake, creating a misty, otherworldly scene.
- Wildlife & Wildlife , You might spot guanacos (Patagonian camels), condors, and even pumas in the area.
- Less Crowded , Unlike the main Fitz Roy trails, this area remains peaceful and untouched.
- Glacial & Alpine Beauty , The Fitz Roy massif in the background is a dream for photographers.
Key Details
- Distance: 10 miles (round trip from Laguna de los Tres)
- Elevation Gain: ~1,500 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate (some rocky sections)
- Best Time to Go: Late spring to early autumn (November to March)
- Permits: Required (book through Parque Nacional Los Glaciares)
Pro Tip: Start early (before 8 AM) to avoid afternoon storms and crowds.
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3. The Forgotten Trail of New Zealand: The Routeburn Track (Alternative Sections)
While the Milford Track and Kepler Track dominate New Zealand’s hiking scene, the Routeburn Track, especially its lesser-known sections, offers equally breathtaking landscapes without the crowds.
Why It’s Underrated
- The “Hidden” Routeburn , Most hikers stick to the main 3-day section, but the first and last days (leading to Lake Mackenzie and Mount Aspiring) are just as stunning.
- Wildflower Meadows , In spring, the Routeburn Flat is covered in colorful wildflowers, creating a fairytale-like scene.
- Mount Aspiring Views , The final ascent offers unobstructed views of New Zealand’s second-highest peak.
- Less Crowded , Unlike the Kepler Track, this trail rarely feels overrun.
Key Details
- Distance: 32 miles (traditional 3-day hike)
- Elevation Gain: ~4,500 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous (some steep climbs)
- Best Time to Go: November to March (summer)
- Permits: Required (book via Department of Conservation)
Pro Tip: Stay at Lake Mackenzie Hut for sunrise views over the Southern Alps.
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4. The Volcanic Wonderland of Costa Rica: Cerro Chirripó’s Hidden Trail
Costa Rica’s Cerro Chirripó is the highest peak in Central America, but most hikers take the main trail, which can be crowded and hot. Instead, consider the lesser-known “Chirripó Viejo” route, a more challenging but rewarding alternative.
Why It’s Underrated
- Avoids the Crowds , The alternative trail is less traveled, offering a quieter ascent.
- Glacial Lakes & Alpine Tundra , You’ll pass high-altitude lakes and unique volcanic landscapes.
- Sunrise at the Summit , Fewer hikers mean better chances to enjoy the sunrise over the cloud forest.
- Rich Biodiversity , Keep an eye out for resplendent quetzals, frogs, and rare orchids.
Key Details
- Distance: 10 miles (round trip)
- Elevation Gain: 4,000 feet
- Difficulty: Strenuous (high altitude, cold temps)
- Best Time to Go: Dry season (December to April)
- Permits: Required (book via SINAC)
Pro Tip: Bring layers, temperatures can drop below freezing at the summit.
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5. The Secret Lakes of Scotland: The Quiet Glencoe Trails
While Ben Nevis and the West Highland Way get all the attention, Glencoe has hidden gems that most hikers miss. The Three Sisters of Glencoe and the Lochan na Larige trail are lesser-known but equally stunning.
Why It’s Underrated
- Three Sisters of Glencoe , A short but rewarding loop with three dramatic peaks and panoramic views.
- Lochan na Larige , A secluded mountain loch with crystal-clear waters and wildlife sightings.
- Fewer Hikers , Unlike the Torridon Range, these trails remain peaceful and uncrowded.
- Mystical Atmosphere , Glencoe’s rugged beauty and dramatic weather make it feel like a hidden world.
Key Details
- Three Sisters Loop: 5 miles (moderate)
- Lochan na Larige: 7 miles (moderate to strenuous)
- Difficulty: Moderate (some rocky sections)
- Best Time to Go: May to September (avoid winter storms)
- Permits: None required
Pro Tip: Visit early morning to avoid afternoon rain and crowds.
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6. The Forgotten Canyon of Utah: The Grand Staircase’s Hidden Slot Canyon
While Zion National Park dominates Utah’s hiking scene, the **Grand Stair
