Climbing or hiking through the expansive wilderness is its own reward. Seeing and touching the unspoiled roots of our earth makes for wonderful memories. But if you want to preserve those memories by channeling your inner Ansel Adams while touring some truly picturesque peaks, grab your camera and plan a trip to one or more of these amazing climbing locales.
The Sierra High Route – California
Cutting through the heart of California’s High Sierra, the Sierra High Route was a favorite destination of the aforementioned Adams and provided some of his most iconic images. Pristine sparkling lakes, towering peaks, and tall trees await your lens on this rugged 49 mile trail.
Mont Blanc – France, Italy, Switzerland
One of the most well known spots in the Alps, Mont Blanc is a 15,781 foot peak spanning three countries. The hiking trail meanders through picturesque valleys and sloping peaks topping out at 8,743 feet. Wildflower-filled fields give way to charming villages where you can take in the local color and cuisine, or you can camp out up top and capture the sunset blazing over the Alps.
Te Araroa Trail – New Zealand
Maori for “the long pathway,” the aptly named Te Araroa Trail runs a leisurely route through the length of New Zealand. Hiking the entire way can span up to four months but will take you through forests, past active volcanoes, as well as through the heart of Auckland. If you’re a Lord of the Rings fan, this trek should definitely be on your hiking bucket list. Preserve all your favorite Middle Earth spots on film!
The Sir Samuel and Lady Florence Baker Historical Trail – Africa
Rushing rivers and gurgling rapids will make for gorgeous photographs as you wind your way from South Sudan to Uganda on what is nicknamed “The Baker Trail.” You’ll navigate the shores of Lake Albert to the glorious Victoria Nile’s Murchison Falls, where a massive flow of water tumbles through a 20 foot wide gap down a 130 foot drop. Rich in history, the trail is named for well known emancipation activists Samuel and Florence Baker who blazed this trail as part of their efforts to abolish the slave trade during the 1800s. The trail has only been open to the public since January of 2014 but travelers can now follow in the Baker’s footsteps along this 360 mile voyage through the past and the present.
Everest Base Camp – Nepal
You don’t have to plan on pushing to the summit in order to visit the world’s most famous mountain. Many mountaineering enthusiasts visit Everest Base Camp each year and view that massive peak from below. It takes about two weeks to reach the camp where you can meet the amazing people who reside nearby and make their living working on the mountain. Postcard-perfect photo opportunities abound in the Himalayas in the form of villages, a slew of international travelers, a Buddhist monastery, and of course, that majestic mountain itself.
