5 hikes to try around the world

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From Tiger Leaping Gorge in China to the Grand Canyon in Arizona, here are five other hikes to try around the world.

Snowdonia, Wales, United Kingdom

Dramatic trails and landscapes abound in the compact wilds of North Wales. Some of the finest and most scenic single-day hikes can be found in this green and pleasant region. The best time for hiking is between April and October, and Betws-y-Coed makes a great base.

Tiger Leaping Gorge, Yunnan, China

The moderate-grade, two-day trek above Tiger Leaping Gorge ranks as one of the best self-guided treks in Asia. The well-marked and well-trodden trail has plenty of guesthouses along the way (reservations not required), and you’ll have the jagged and snow-capped Jade Dragon Snow Mountain as a misty backdrop along the way. Avoid Chinese New Year, Golden Week (early October) and the rainy season between July and September.

Mount Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia

Standing 4,095 metres tall, the imposing Mount Kinabalu in Borneo is the highest peak in the region. Climbing it usually involves an overnight stay in the well-facilitated mountain refuge (small dorms). The summit is traditionally made in the dark, from where you see the sunrise over Sabah. Technical skills are not required, but it is a tough physical challenge, especially the descent. You will need to book this all in advance.

Grand Canyon, Arizona, United States

Without a doubt the Grand Canyon is one of the most amazing places on Earth, and it has some great hiking, too. The pathways of the southern rim (north of Flagstaff) offer great and easily attainable views, but hiking down into the base of the canyon and the Colorado River flips that view around and makes for a superb and challenging one- or two-day hike (you can also hike to the north rim). Avoid midwinter and the ultra-hot June to September period.

Swiss Alps

There can be few better places to hike than the Swiss Alps. No matter where you go there are great and well-marked trails of every grade, most flanked by daunting peaks. The Valais region has endless opportunities, with Zermatt (at the base of the Matterhorn) being one of the best trekking bases — outside of the winter ski season.