12 hiking trails that should be on your bucket list!

For hikers, the journey doesn’t begin at the trailhead, it begins with a destination that promises challenge, beauty, and a deep connection to the outdoors. From misty alpine paths to volcanic ridgelines and tropical jungles, Asia‑Pacific offers some of the world’s most rewarding hikes. Better still, many of these adventures are easily accessible with Scoot flights, making it simpler to turn wanderlust into action. 

Mount Fuji 

Tokyo, Japan

Mount Fuji, Japan’s highest peak, offers a well-regulated yet unforgettable hiking experience with four official summit trails: Yoshida, Fujinomiya, Subashiri, and Gotemba.

Yoshida is the most popular and beginner-friendly, while Fujinomiya is the shortest but steepest. Subashiri offers a quieter, forested ascent before joining the Yoshida route higher up, and Gotemba is the longest and least crowded option, best suited to experienced hikers seeking a more strenuous challenge.

Advance registration or reservations may be required, especially on the Yoshida route, which is the most regulated and has a daily cap of 4,000 climbers per day. Planning ahead is essential.

🚶 Distance: 5–8 km for Yoshida, 5 km for Fujinomiya, 6–8 km for Subashiri and 10–11 km for Gotemba

⏱️ Time needed: 1–2 days

💪 Difficulty: Moderate to Advanced

📅 Best time to go: Early July to mid‑September, when trails, huts, and safety services are fully operational. Climbing outside this period is strongly discouraged due to snow, ice, and extreme weather conditions.

Mount Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia 

Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak in Malaysia at 4,095 metres, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its exceptional biodiversity and deep cultural significance to Sabah’s indigenous communities. Hikers can summit the mountain via three options: the regular descent, Via Ferrata – Walk the Torq, and Via Ferrata – Low’s Peak Circuit.

While the regular route descends directly after the famous sunrise summit at Low’s Peak, the Via Ferrata options add an adventurous element, offering unique perspectives and an added adrenaline rush. Permits are required, and booking well in advance is essential due to strict quotas. 

🚶 Distance: 16–18 km, depending on route

⏱️ Time needed: 2 days

💪 Difficulty: Moderate to Advanced

📅 Best time to go: March to September for drier weather conditions and better visibility

Mount Rinjani

Lombok, Indonesia

Mount Rinjani, standing at 3,726 metres, is one of Indonesia’s most challenging hikes, known for its volcanic terrain, sweeping views, and the stunning Segara Anak crater lake. The two main routes—Sembalun and Senaru—offer contrasting experiences: Sembalun features open savannah and a gentler start, while Senaru involves steeper climbs through dense forest.

Many climbers opt to ascend via one route and descend via the other, allowing them to experience the full diversity of Mount Rinjani’s landscapes in a single trek.

🚶 Distance: 20–40 km, depending on route  

⏱️ Time needed: 2–4 days

💪 Difficulty: Advanced

📅 Best time to go: April to November. The mountain is closed for hiking during the rainy season from December to March

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park 

Changsha, China 

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, about 3–3.5 hours from Changsha by high-speed rail, is a top hiking destination with trails for all levels, spread across several major scenic areas.

Tianzi Mountain offers sweeping views, towering peaks, and relatively easy walks, while Yuanjiajie is home to dramatic cliff platforms and the famous sandstone pillar said to have inspired the movie Avatar. Golden Whip Stream provides a tranquil, low-level hike along clear water through lush forest. Meanwhile, Yangjiajie delivers a more rugged experience with steep climbs, narrow ridges, and fewer crowds, appealing to confident hikers seeking adventure.

🚶 Distance: 3–10 km, depending on route

⏱️ Time needed: 1–3 days

💪 Difficulty: Easy to Advanced

📅 Best time to go: April to June for spring or September to November for autumn

Phu Chi Fa

Chiang Rai, Thailand

Phu Chi Fa is a short but steep day hike that delivers a big payoff, especially for those who start before dawn to catch the sunrise. 

After a brief climb through mossy evergreens, hikers emerge at a dramatic cliff edge just in time to watch golden light spill over a sea of mist across the Thai–Laos border. The viewpoint offers sweeping 270-degree panoramas, making it one of Thailand’s most iconic sunrise spots. Located about 90 km (roughly a 1.5–2 hour drive) from Chiang Rai city, it’s an easy and rewarding early-morning excursion that combines accessibility with unforgettable, photo-worthy views. 

🚶 Distance: 750 metres one-way

⏱️ Time needed: 20–30 minutes

💪 Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

📅 Best time to go: November to February, when the weather is clear and the mist most prominent

Doi Suthep

Chiang Mai, Thailand

The Doi Suthep Monk’s Trail is one of Chiang Mai’s most popular hikes, combining natural beauty with cultural significance. Originally used by monks, the trail has two sections: the first leads through shaded forest to Wat Pha Lat, a tranquil jungle temple, while the second climbs more steeply to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, one of northern Thailand’s most important Buddhist sites.

Easily accessible from the city centre, the Monk’s Trail is an ideal choice for travellers seeking an immersive hike that combines physical challenge, serene forest scenery, and Chiang Mai’s deep spiritual heritage. 

🚶 Distance: 1.5 km to Wat Pha Lat, 7–7.5 km to Doi Suthep

⏱️ Time needed: 30–45 minutes to Wat Pha Lat, 2–4 hours total (round trip to Doi Suthep)

💪 Difficulty: Moderate

📅 Best time to go: November to February for cooler temperatures and clear city views

Ton Nga Chang Wildlife Sanctuary 

Hat Yai, Thailand 

Hat Yai may not be widely known as a hiking destination, but it still offers rewarding trails for nature lovers willing to explore beyond the city. The standout spot is Ton Nga Chang Wildlife Sanctuary, famous for its stunning seven-tiered waterfall surrounded by dense rainforest. Short jungle trails lead visitors through lush greenery and cascading pools, making it a refreshing and scenic hike that reveals one of southern Thailand’s hidden natural gems.

🚶 Distance: 2–3 km, depending on route

⏱️ Time needed: 2–4 hours to complete all seven tiers

💪 Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

📅 Best time to go: May to October, during rainy season when the waterfall flows at full force

Blue Mountains 

Sydney, Australia 

The Blue Mountains cover a vast region, but most hikers focus on three key areas. Katoomba is the heart of the Blue Mountains, featuring icons like the Three Sisters, as well as popular routes such as the Giant Stairway to Furber Steps circuit, and the scenic Prince Henry Cliff Walk.

Wentworth Falls offers dramatic waterfalls and lush valley trails, including the Valley of the Waters. Blackheath is more rugged, with cliff-edge walks and longer hikes such as the Grand Canyon Walk, Hanging Rock Track, and Grose Valley routes.

🚶 Distance: 1–7 km for Katoomba, 2.5–7 km for Wentworth Falls, and 5–8 km for Blackheath, depending on route

⏱️ Time needed: 1–5 hours

💪 Difficulty: Easy to Advanced

📅 Best time to go: March to May for vibrant fall foliage and September to November for spring blooms

Lion Rock

Hong Kong SAR, China

Hong Kong is home to a wealth of scenic hiking trails, and Lion Rock stands out as one of the city’s most iconic and popular routes. Named for its distinctive silhouette resembling a crouching lion, this hike offers an unforgettable payoff at the summit, where sweeping views stretch across Kowloon and all the way to Hong Kong Island.

The final section of steep stairs provides a challenging push toward the top, but the effort is well rewarded with one of Hong Kong’s most dramatic panoramic viewpoints.

🚶 Distance: 4–6 km, depending on route

⏱️ Time needed: 2–3 hours

💪 Difficulty: Moderate

📅 Best time to go: October to April for cooler and drier weather

Hallasan Mountain 

Jeju, South Korea 

Hallasan Mountain rises 1,950 metres above sea level at the heart of Jeju Island and is renowned for its rich biodiversity and dramatic volcanic landscapes. Hikers can reach the summit via two main routes: the Seongpanak Trail, which offers a steady, gradual ascent through dense forest, and the Gwaneumsa Trail, a steeper and more demanding option with around 1,300–1,400 metres of elevation gain and more expansive views.

Many hikers choose to ascend via one trail and descend via the other for a more varied experience. Reservations are mandatory for both summit routes, and hikers must enter within their reserved time window and pass key checkpoints along the way.

🚶 Distance: 9.6 km for Seongpanak Trail and 8.7 km for Gwaneumsa Trail one-way

⏱️ Time needed: 6–10 hours

💪 Difficulty: Moderate to Advanced

📅 Best time to go: April to May for comfortable spring hiking temperatures, or October to November for striking golden foliage

Qixingshan 

Taipei, Taiwan 

Qixingshan Hiking Trail is one of the most popular hikes in Yangmingshan National Park, leading to Taipei’s highest peak at 1,120 metres. The trail is known for its volcanic landscape, grassy slopes, and panoramic views over the Taipei Basin and surrounding mountains. The hike typically starts from Xiaoyoukeng, where steaming fumaroles and sulfur vents highlight the area’s geothermal activity, before ascending steadily along stone steps to the main peak and nearby East Peak.

Easily accessible from Taipei, it’s a rewarding hike that combines moderate elevation gain, unique volcanic scenery, and sweeping summit views.

🚶 Distance: 3–6 km, depending on route

⏱️ Time needed: 2–4 hours return

💪 Difficulty: Moderate

📅 Best time to go: October to May for cooler weather and clearer skies

Mount Apo 

Davao, The Philippines 

Mount Apo, the Philippines’ highest peak at 2,954 metres, is a challenging multi-day trek known for its diverse landscapes. The route crosses mossy forests, boulder fields, volcanic slopes, and high-altitude grasslands, requiring good preparation and physical fitness.

Hikers must secure permits through local government units, and most climbs require advance booking with guides and organised logistics. Requirements may include environmental fees and, in some cases, medical clearance depending on local regulations.

🚶 Distance: 16–30 km, depending on route

⏱️ Time needed: 2–4 days

💪 Difficulty: Advanced

📅 Best time to go: March to May, when weather conditions are most favourable. The mountain is closed annually from June to August for conservation and ecosystem recovery.

Not always. Many hiking trails across Asia‑Pacific are well-developed and can be safely explored. In countries like Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan, popular routes are clearly signposted, regularly maintained, and supported by strong public infrastructure. 

However, in parts of Southeast Asia, conditions can be more challenging. For volcanic and remote treks in Malaysia and Indonesia, a licensed local guide is strongly recommended due to unpredictable weather, rugged terrain, limited signage, and safety risks such as altitude exposure and volcanic activity. In many cases, guides are also required by park authorities.

Packing the right gear is key to a safe and enjoyable hiking trip abroad. At a minimum, bring proper hiking footwear, weather‑appropriate clothing, sufficient water, high‑energy snacks, and navigation tools.

Must-have hiking essentials

• • Comfortable, broken-in hiking shoes or boots 
  • Moisture-wicking clothing and weather-appropriate layers 
  • Water supply and refill options 
  • High-energy snacks or meals
  • Navigation tools (map, GPS, offline apps) 
  • Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)

Extra gear for challenging hikes

• • Insulating layers for cold or high-altitude hikes
  • Rain gear for sudden weather changes
  • Headlamp/torch for early starts or delays

Hiking isn’t just about reaching the summit, it’s about the journey, the effort, and the moments of awe along the way. With Scoot connecting you to some of Asia‑Pacific’s most inspiring landscapes, adventure is only a flight away. Lace up your boots, breathe in the wild air, and let the trails lead you somewhere unforgettable.