If you enjoy hiking, you probably know that “feel-good” sensation that comes with lacing up your boots, shouldering a backpack and venturing outdoors. Hiking allows you to reconnect with nature, challenge yourself physically and mentally and discover new territory. Although your local hikes — along with those throughout the U.S. — could take you a lifetime to explore, there are also a wealth of international hikes to experience.

So, if you’re an avid hiker seeking out trails to add to your bucket list, these three extraordinary trails around the world, each with their own distinct allure, promise an adventure that will forever be etched in your memory.

As you traverse these paths less traveled, you could encounter the extraordinary, the breathtaking and the soul-stirring, and you will be transported to landscapes that seem almost otherworldly.

New Zealand’s Te Araroa Trail, an 1,800-mile (3,000-kilometer) hike, takes you from the beaches of Cape Reinga to the cliffs of Bluff. The Southern Alps greet you with their snow-capped peaks as you take in the diverse flora and fauna of this hike.

Travel farther east to the mystical forests of Japan to see the ancient cedars of Yakushima Island. This trail is a testament to the enduring power of nature and its ability to transport us to a place where time seems to stand still.

Finally, venture to the southernmost tip of South America, where the Dientes de Nariño Circuit Hike in Patagonia, Chile, awaits. Here, you can witness jagged mountain peaks, vast glaciers, and azure lakes. You’ll also hike through a remote wilderness.

So, if you’re ready to embark on a journey that will challenge and inspire you, it’s time to add these extraordinary trails to your bucket list:

Te Araroa Trail: South Island, New Zealand

Nestled in the South Island, the Te Araroa Trail is a hiker’s paradise that stretches over 1,800 miles (3,000 kilometers) from Cape Reinga to Bluff. This trail takes you through a variety of terrain, from sandy beaches to alpine passes and from dense forests to rugged coastlines. Here are highlights of  hiking the Te Araroa Trail:

Mountains and Glaciers

One of the highlights of the Te Araroa Trail is the opportunity to witness New Zealand’s stunning mountain ranges and glaciers. The Southern Alps dominate the landscape, offering panoramic vistas. As you hike through the snow-capped peaks and icy valleys, you’ll encounter the Mount Cook, the highest peak in New Zealand.

Diverse Wildlife and Vegetation

The Te Araroa Trail, known as “The Long Pathway,” has an incredible array of wildlife and vegetation — showcasing the unique biodiversity of New Zealand. From ancient forests filled with towering kauri trees to lush fern groves and vibrant meadows, the trail immerses you in a symphony of colors and scents. Keep an eye out for native birds such as the iconic kiwi, bellbirds, and the melodious tui. With every step, you’ll feel connected to the rich natural heritage.

Cultural encounters

In addition to its natural wonders, the Te Araroa Trail offers an opportunity to experience the rich cultural heritage of New Zealand. You’ll encounter welcoming local communities and have the chance to experience some of the traditions and customs of the Maori people. You can learn about their culture through storytelling, songs, and delicious cuisine like the traditional Maori boil-up — a brothy stew with sweet potatoes, carrots and pumpkin.

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Mystical Forest Ancient Trail: Japan

If you want to hike a trail that feels like it’s straight out of a fairytale, the Mystical Forest Ancient Trail in Japan will not disappoint. This hidden gem, nestled deep within the ancient cedar forests of Yakushima Island, offers a serene and otherworldly hiking experience. Here are three best things about hiking the Mystical Forest Ancient Trail:

Enchanting Cedar Forest

On your hike, you can explore the ancient cedar forests of Yakushima Island. The towering trees (some over 1,000 years old) create an atmosphere that feels like a portal to a different era. The lush green moss carpets the forest floor and the streams in the forest are seemingly endless. Be sure to visit the awe-inspiring Jomon Sugi, a cedar tree estimated to be over 2,000 years old, standing as a testament to the resilience of nature.

Serenity and Tranquility

This trail offers hikers a respite from the hustle and bustle of modern life, allowing you to reconnect with your inner self in serene surroundings. The trail winds through valleys, leading to hidden waterfalls and pristine rivers. The air is filled with the soothing sound of birdsong and the subtle rustling of leaves. As you hike, you’ll find a sense of tranquility.

Unique Wildlife

Yakushima Island is not only home to ancient forests but also a haven for diverse and unique wildlife. Keep your eyes out for the mischievous Yakushika, a subspecies of deer found only on the island. The rivers teem with native fish species, and if you’re lucky, you might spot a rare Japanese mink or the elusive Ryukyu long-tailed giant rat. This trail gives you an opportunity to observe and appreciate the delicate balance of nature in this secluded corner of the world.

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Dientes de Nariño Circuit Hike: Patagonia, Chile

If you’re a hiker wanting a challenging journey, the Dientes de Nariño Circuit Hike in Patagonia, Chile, is an experience like no other. This trail winds through the rugged landscapes of Tierra del Fuego, offering dramatic views of mountains, glaciers and fjords. Here are three highlights of hiking the Dientes de Nariño Circuit.

Epic Scenery

As you hike through the Dientes de Nariño Circuit, you’ll see views of jagged mountain peaks, glaciers and sparkling lakes. The landscape is ever-changing, with each turn revealing a new scene of nature. From the Cerro Palomares to the crystal-clear Laguna de los Dientes, the scenery will leave you speechless.

Remote Wilderness

Patagonia is renowned for its wild and untamed beauty, and the Dientes de Nariño Circuit Hike allows you to immerse yourself in this remote wilderness. As you hike the trail, you’ll encounter untouched landscapes — devoid of human intervention. The solitude and silence of the wilderness can provide a humbling and introspective experience.

End of-the-World Feeling

Standing at the southernmost tip of South America, the Dientes de Nariño Circuit Hike offers a unique sense of being at the end of the world. The wind-swept terrain and the turbulent waters of the Beagle Channel create a raw atmosphere. It’s a place where you can witness the forces of nature in their full glory, reminding you of the vastness and resilience of our planet.

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Suzanne Downing is an outdoor writer and photographer in Montana with an environmental science journalism background. Her work can be found in Outdoors Unlimited, Bugle Magazine, Missoulian, Byline Magazine, Communique, MTPR online, UM Native News, National Wildlife Federation campaigns and more.