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Welsh poet Gwyn Thomas once wrote, “But the beauty is in the walking — we are betrayed by destinations.” With all due respect to Mr. Thomas, perhaps he just hadn't found the right destinations.

 These ten stunning trails offer no ordinary hike. These are timeless adventures designed to inspire the most avid trekkers with views of lush scenery and exotic species. 

Hong Kong: Dragon’s Back

Not only does this 50 km trail offer plenty of lush scenery, but Hong Kong’s world-famous architectural structures gleam in the distance, adding the distant beat of the city’s vibrant urban drum to the peaceful surroundings. Offering grueling yet unimaginable treks, backpackers quickly learn why this arching, twisting trail si called the dragon’s back. Especially once you make it from Shek O Peak Road to atop the 284 meter high Shek O Peak hill: the perfect spot to take a break or bask in the views of Tung Lung Island, which lies below. 

From here, the trail continues to Shek O Country Park, which provides three distinct routes for hiking pleasure. Once you have made it to Tai Long, your vigorous efforts will be rewarded at the Big Bay Wave, where you can go for a swim, surf or relax after endeavoring Hong Kong’s most legendary trail.

Australia: Bibbulmun Track

Australia's Aborigines are famous for their walkabouts, a ceremonial rite of passage in which young men will live in the wilderness and reconnect with their ancestors. You can try your hand at a walkabout on this 1,000 km trail which appeals to every type of backpacker.  Whether you need a moment alone with your thoughts or plan on venturing into the wild on a family camping trip, you will capture an eyeful of the breathtaking natural beauty only the heart of Australia’s South West can provide. 

Its sprawling roads stretch from Kalamunda to Albany offering a unique walk of life that will change your state of mind.

Lowell, ID: Jerry Johnson Hot Springs

Lush pines and rustic pathways are not the only views hikers have to look forward to while taking thisadventurous stroll.  Hot springs are also a part of the journey while trekking the mile–long hike to the Jerry Johnson Hot Springs. 

Located in the Clearwater National Forest, backpackers first stumble upon Waterfall Pools, which sit at the Lochsa River.  For backpackers wanting to venture further along the trail, two other pools provide a relaxing hot water spot for a quick dip  to relieve aching muscles.

Peru: Inca Trail

A common fixture on any list of best hiking trails, the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu combines antiquity, beauty and world-class treasures to create variations of unparalleled sites unlike any other hike of its kind.  From archeological ruins and glorious mountain ranges to steep tunnels and tropical cloud-forests, this remarkable journey is as inspirational as it is mystical — where reaching the destination is as much fun as the trek itself.  Here, you will retrace the steps of a lost civilization, basking in the glory of the ruins of llactapata, Runkurakay and Winay Wayna along the way.

Arizona: The Grand Canyon's Bright Angel Trail

Don’t be fooled by the name: this hike is no angel. Blessed with steep, dirt wall terraces you will need some preparation before attempting this more than 6,000-foot climb beginning by mule.  However, once you reach its highest peaks, you will be dazzled by the ecological splendor of majestic rock walls emerging out of the ground as well as deep valleys carved out of the Grand Canyon’s rocky landscape. 

The Bright Angel Trail is located in the canyon’s South Rim, attracting a majority of its pioneering backpackers with a view of glorious cliffs.  Just keep trekking and remember not to veer off track, because the beauty of the canyon can also make for a rocky road.

New Zealand: Tongariro Northern Circuit

Imagine gentle breezes lightly sweeping across your face as you come toe-to-toe with an active volcano.  Instead of worrying about whether or not spews of lava will have you running for high ground, your curiosity beckons you to stay and ascend the trail of lava displaying Mt Ruapehu’s fury.  At 43.1 km, this crater-filled climb begins in Whakapapa Village and heads to a world filled with biographical diversity. 

You will be greeted by buttercups and foxgloves residing in Soda Springs. From Mangatepopo Saddle hikers can gaze at the valley and Mt. Taranaki in all of their magnificence, and then follow the road to Red Crater, which is met with views of the Oturere Valley, Kaimanawa Rangers and Blue Lake.

For three to four days, you will be inspired as well as astonished by the old charm nestled on this discovery of New Zealand’s classic gravel fields.

Hawaii: Kalalau Trail

Nestled among Hawaii's glorious peaks and valleys, this trail winds through a paradise dotted with grand cliffs and sugary coastlines. 

Commencing at Ke'e Beach, you will be guided on a path met by views of the coast before you find yourself at the foot of a grand waterfall.  After journeying across the stream, the climb becomes a bit steeper as it ascends about 800 feet at Hanakapi'ai valley.  From this spot you can easily rest before venturing to Hanakoa valley, which offers plenty of sun and little shade before the hike concludes at Kalalau Beach.

Word to wise: once you reach Hanakapi'ai’s sand beach refrain from swimming, since its currents are dangerously strong.

Nepal: Everest Base Camp Trek

If you want to climb the world’s tallest mountain, here is your opportunity. However, this is no easy hike as frigid temperatures and altitudes of more than 18,000 feet cause dizzy spells as an attempt for Everest to knock mountaineers of their course. 

But once you have conquered this incredible feat, not only will you have the world at your feet and incredible stories to last a lifetime, you will be able to write your name in the history book along with other mountain-crazed innovators who have made their claim to fame among the mountain's Sherpa people.

Mali: Pays Dogon

Dubbed the “third best trek in the world” by Lonely Planet, Pays Dogon promises an extraordinary hiking experience deeply immersed in West African culture.  Among the glorious red cliffs of Bandiagara, you’ll be greeted by the Dogon masked performers who will be proud to enlighten your path with festivals as a way of welcoming you into their remote home.

Dotted with baobab trees, and home to crocodiles and youyou birds, this UNESCO Heritage Site is an unforgettable glimpse into a culture so unique and a landscape so stunning it has to be seen to be believed.

Ireland: Croagh Patrick, Ireland

We have all been to a St. Patrick’s Day parade or have seen the kilt-wearing performers marching down the streets on TV.  But the Croagh Patrick trek allows pilgrims to pay homage to the saint as well.  Croagh, meaning “sharp mountain” is believed to be a preservation of the 40 days and nights St. Patrick spent in prayer here, and continues to draw a magnitude of spiritual searchers hiking to the mountain’s peak as Clew Bay and the Country Mayo offer breathtaking views along the way.

If you are looking for a unique way to celebrate Ireland’s beloved saint, Croagh Patrick is the ticket for this one-of-a-kind experience.