Where to Trek in 2025: Emerging Trail Destinations to Watch
f you’re a traveler who prefers trails over tourist traps, 2025 is shaping up to be your year. With borders wide open, infrastructure improving, and a growing global focus on sustainable travel, the world is filled with emerging trek-worthy gems. Whether you’re into alpine passes, remote jungle paths, or cultural hikes through ancient villages, here are some of the most exciting up-and-coming trekking destinations to keep on your radar.
Albanian Alps, Albania
Tōkai Nature Trail, Japan
Simien Mountains, Ethiopia
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1. The Albanian Alps, Albania
The Balkans have been quietly building a name for rugged beauty and off-the-grid adventure, and Albania’s Valbona to Theth trail is quickly becoming a classic. With untouched mountain landscapes, traditional guesthouses, and minimal crowds, it offers that raw, remote experience many trekkers crave.
Why 2025: New eco-tourism initiatives and trail maintenance are making it easier and safer to explore without sacrificing its wild charm.
2. The Tōkai Nature Trail, Japan
Stretching over 1,000 kilometers from Tokyo to Osaka, this long-distance trail weaves through forests, mountains, temples, and historic post towns.
Why 2025: With Japan’s tourism bouncing back and more resources becoming available in English, this ambitious trek is finally accessible to international hikers seeking a deep dive into Japanese nature and culture.
3. Simien Mountains, Ethiopia
Dubbed “Africa’s Grand Canyon,” the Simien Mountains deliver dramatic escarpments, wildlife (hello, gelada monkeys), and a true sense of expedition-style trekking.
Why 2025: With more guided options, improved conservation efforts, and increasing traveler interest in East Africa, the Simiens are stepping into the spotlight.
The Tigray Rock-Hewn Churches Trek, Northern Ethiopia
The High Scardus Trail, Western Balkans
The Dragon’s Back, Hong Kong
4. The Tigray Rock-Hewn Churches Trek, Northern Ethiopia
A spiritual and rugged journey that combines trekking and climbing to ancient cliffside churches carved into red rock.
Why 2025: Recently reopened and stabilized areas are welcoming adventurous trekkers again, offering a raw and powerful combination of culture and adrenaline.
5. The High Scardus Trail, Western Balkans
A brand-new transnational trail crossing North Macedonia, Albania, and Kosovo, linking remote mountain villages through high passes and alpine meadows.
Why 2025: Developed as part of a regional eco-tourism project, this trail is practically tailor-made for intrepid trekkers seeking untouched terrain and authentic local hospitality.
6. The Dragon’s Back, Hong Kong
While not new, this coastal trail is gaining fresh interest in 2025 thanks to wellness-focused travel and urban adventurers seeking quick nature getaways. Think city skyline views on one side, turquoise waters on the other.
Why 2025: Hong Kong’s focus on nature-based tourism and trail connectivity is making short treks more popular than ever.
7. Rincón de la Vieja, Costa Rica
For tropical adventure lovers, this volcanic region in northwest Costa Rica is a hiker’s dream—waterfalls, bubbling mud pools, and lush rainforest await.
Why 2025: Eco-lodges and trail improvements are making this lesser-known national park more accessible, while still offering that wild, Jurassic Park feel.
Final Thought
As more travelers seek meaningful, slow, and sustainable travel experiences, trekking is going through a renaissance. 2025 isn’t just about the bucket list—it’s about discovering new stories, new paths, and new ways to connect with the planet.
So lace up those boots. The trail ahead is calling.