7 Top Islands for Hiking
These seven islands for hiking boast mountain and coastal views that are sure to make a great vacation. It’s time to book your last vacation of this summer season or start planning your winter vacation getaway now. If you are a hiker and want to experience the awe-inspiring terrain of mountainous islands, the islands on this list are perfect islands for hiking. Some of the islands listed below are best visited during certain seasons, while others would be a great getaway year-round. Now, the trails on this list are not the only options but do seem to be the most popular.
1. The Hawaiian Island Chain
Hoeli Sea Arch in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park | Photo Credit: RDPixelShop via Flickr
Kalalau Trail | Photo Credit: Dan Dwyer via Flickr
Hiking in any of the Hawaiian islands will definitely boast beautiful views but do be aware that depending on the hike you choose, the weather can be very different on certain parts of the islands. Prepare for rainy hikes in the northern hemisphere’s winter months and heat during the summer. Hawaii is also a great place to hike to view ancient rock art.
Best Times to Visit: Year-round
Notable Hikes:
The most popular islands of Hawaii:
- Oahu
- The Big Island
- Maui
- Kauai
2. Corsica, France
Lac de Nino on the GR 20 Trail | Photo Credt: Jean-Baptiste Bellet via Flickr
This island is home to treacherous trails and gorgeous Mediterranean beaches. The GR 20 trail, known as Europe’s hardest hike, traverses the island. Visit Corsica during the northern hemisphere’s summer months. Snow is still found in the high mountains in late June and early July. The mountains tend to have storms in the afternoon during the summer; make sure to be prepared to camp in the rain.
Best Times to Visit: June – September
Notable Hikes
3. The Islands of New Zealand
New Zealand is home to gorgeous mountain views and numerous hiking trails.New Zealand actually consists of a collection of islands. However, the two larger islands contains most of the population. The country is a perfect destination during the northern hemisphere’s winter. The Milford Track, a notable trail in the country, has been known as the ‘finest walk in the world’ and is one of the oldest hiking trails in the word.
Best Times to Visit: December – April
Notable Hikes
4. The Islands of Japan
Hokkaido Hiking in Daisetsuzan National Park | Photo Credit: jyl4032 via Flickr
Mt Fuji | Photo Credit: Eric via Flickr
The islands of Japan range from lush forest to rocky alpine terrain. One of the islands is home to Mount Fuji, an active volcano that rises up to 12,388 feet (3,775 m) in elevation. There are numerous hikes, even ones that are close to popular city centers such as Tokyo.
Best Times to Visit: Year-round, best in spring and autumn
Notable Hikes
The most popular islands of Japan:
- Hokkaido
- Honshu
- Mt. Fuji (July – mid-Sept)
- Shikoku
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88 Temple Pilgrimage (This is an ancient hiking. Read more about the oldest hikes in the world)
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- Kyushu
5. The Caribbean Island Region
Near Summit of El Yunque in Puerto Rico | Photo Credit: Adam Schweigert via Flickr
View from the top of Mount Scenery in Saba | Christine Warner Hawks via Flickr
There are thousands of Caribbean Islands to choose from for your perfect hiking island getaway. The ones below are known for the easiest access, popularity, and best hiking. The islands are typically known for gorgeous beaches but the volcano and forest hiking is absolutely something that must be experienced.
Best Times to Visit: Year-round
Notable Hikes:
The most popular Caribbean Islands for hiking:
- St. Kitts
- St. Lucia
- Saba
- Puerto Rico
- Dominica
6. Acadia National Park
Cadillac Mountain in Acadia NP | Photo Credit: l.hillesheim via Flickr
Cadillac Mountain in Acadia NP | Photo Credit: Nadine via Flickr
Located off the coast of Maine, United States, these islands make up the oldest national park east of the Mississippi River. Most of the park is on Mount Desert Island.
Best Times to Visit: May – September
Notable Hikes:
7. Channel Islands
Hiking Channel Islands | Photo Credit: Momo go via Flickr
Montanon Ridge Trail on Santa Cruz Island | Photo Credit: Pacific Southwest Region USFWS via Flickr
The Channel Islands are located off the coast of California, United States. There are five islands in the Channel Island National Park. These islands are home to unique floral and fauna and boasts some incredible island mountain views year-round.
Best Times to Visit: Year-round
Notable Hikes:
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