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| Image Source: halleyhosting.com |
For a certain kind of traveler, there's nothing more fulfilling than talking a trip through wilderness trails. The combination of exhilarating nature views and the peace that comes with walking or running amidst foliage, over mountains, or alongside great bodies of water is one that holds a special place in the hearts of hikers, trail runners, and campers.
The following are two trails that deserve a spot on the bucket lists of true trail enthusiasts.
The Everest Base Camp Trek, Nepal
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| Image Source: rei.com |
Travelers who want a challenging yet rewarding trail that provides a peek at Mount Everest, the peak that serves as an eternal symbol of adventure, will get all that and more with the Everest Base Camp Trek. The trek usually takes three days and brings travelers to challenging paths from Lukla to Kala Patthar (5,545 meter elevation ) from which they can have one of the best views of Mount Everest, and Nangkartshang Peak (5,083 meters) where travelers can view a breathtaking panorama of the snow-topped peaks of Ama Dablam, Cho Oyu, Nuptse., Makala, and Chukhung. The trek ends at Everest Base Camp in Kala Patthar, located just below the Khumbu Icefall.
Along the way, travelers can immerse themselves in Nepalese culture, through visiting Sherpa villages, market towns, and ancient monasteries, and indulging in local delicacies such as a hot dish of tsampa noodles and a cup of Chhaang, a local beer made from millet.
Landmannalaugar to Thórsmörk trail, Iceland
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| Image Source: philippegatta.fr |
This 54 kilometer trail connects the nature reserves Landmannalaugar and Thorsmork. Hikers will traverse the southern highlands from north to south. The trail ends at Thorsmork (300 meters elevation), a beautiful mountain ridge named after the Norse god Thor and flanked by the two glaciers. The Thórsmörk Valley is said to have inspired J.R.R. Tolkien, the acclaimed author of The Hobbit and the Lord of the Rings.
The trail features a variety of spectacular sights: lava fields, colorful mountain peaks, waterfalls, glaciers, hot springs, rivers, and lakes. Traversing a wilderness trail is physically and mentally taxing, but the hard work is amply rewarded with stunning views and a sense of accomplishment that only comes from overcoming a great challenge.
Riyesh Menon is a real estate professional who enjoys wilderness tours and holidays in exotic locations. Follow him on Twitter for more travel articles and news.
