Discovering Forgotten Paths: Abandoned Hiking Trails

7 December 2024

There’s something undeniably captivating about hiking trails that have been left to the whims of nature. Forgotten by modern-day trekkers and left to the elements, abandoned hiking trails carry stories—of past explorers, natural beauty, and maybe even a bit of mystery. Hiking these trails feels like stepping back in time, offering adventurers the chance to wander paths less traveled, to rediscover a slice of history, and to feel an intimate connection with nature.

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast who craves more than the usual, well-trodden paths, these forgotten trails can be your next great adventure. Let’s dive right in, stomp some overgrown trails, dodge cobwebs, and discover what these abandoned hiking paths have in store for those brave enough to venture forth!

Why Explore Abandoned Hiking Trails?

You might be asking, “Why on earth would I want to hike an abandoned trail?” I get it—wandering into a possibly overgrown, sometimes forgotten, and less-maintained trail doesn’t exactly scream comfort. But here’s the deal: these trails offer something that popular ones rarely do—solitude, mystery, and raw beauty that’s untouched by the masses.

Solitude and Serenity

On a typical hiking day, you might find yourself dodging fellow hikers, their dogs, and the occasional drone. Not on abandoned trails. These paths often offer an unmatched sense of peace, a blessed escape from the crowds. You can be fully immersed in the natural soundtrack—rustling leaves, chirping birds, and the occasional scamper of wildlife. Plus, there's nothing like the simple pleasure of having the path all to yourself.

A Step Back In Time

Many of these forgotten trails have rich histories tied to early trading routes, mining roads, or old pilgrimages. Walking along them is like trekking through the pages of an unwritten history book. The eroded markers, crumbling stones, and moss-covered remnants of human-made structures silently whisper stories of a time gone by.

Adventure and Discovery

If you love a good challenge, these forgotten paths won’t disappoint. They’re often unmarked, meaning you’ll need to rely on your wits, a reliable GPS, or a good ol’ map to navigate. There's an exciting element of surprise here—you never know what you’ll find. Will it be an old, forgotten cabin? Maybe a hidden waterfall? The prospect of finding something new is half the fun.

Reconnect With Nature

In contrast to highly-regulated trails, abandoned hiking paths are nature's playground. Without frequent human intervention, the flora and fauna thrive in unexpected ways. You’ll witness nature taking back what’s hers—trees growing over old pathways, grass carpeting stone steps, and wildlife reclaiming its territory. It’s raw, real, and absolutely beautiful.

Gear Up: What You Need for Abandoned Trails

Exploring forgotten hiking paths isn’t like your average day hike. These trails can be unpredictable, and your usual gear setup might need some tweaking. Here’s a list of must-haves before you head out on your forgotten trail adventure:

Reliable Navigation Tools

Because these trails are often unmarked or poorly maintained, there’s always the risk of losing your way. Forget relying solely on those paper maps you pick up at the start of a regular trail. You’ll need solid navigation tools like a GPS or apps like AllTrails or Gaia GPS.

Sturdy Footwear

Abandoned trails can be rocky, muddy, uneven, and overgrown. For this reason, it’s essential to wear high-quality, durable hiking boots that provide good ankle support. Extra grip is a plus since you’ll likely encounter surfaces that aren’t as clear as modern trails.

Extra Layers and Rain Gear

Remember, these trails are often in more remote areas, meaning weather can be unpredictable. Pack a light rain jacket, even if it looks sunny when you set out, and add extra layers in case the temperature drops.

First Aid Kit

Even on well-traveled paths, accidents happen. But on abandoned trails, you’re less likely to encounter other hikers and may be far from help or medical services. A solid first aid kit with essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and a blister kit is non-negotiable.

Snacks and Extra Water

Because you’ll probably spend more time than expected meandering through these trails, bring enough fuel to keep you going. Pack energy-boosting snacks like trail mix, granola bars, and dried fruit. Most importantly, carry more water than you think you’ll need.

A Sense of Adventure

Above all else, bring along a curious spirit. You’re not just out for a stroll here; you’re hiking through forgotten landscapes and peeling back layers of time. Don’t be afraid to explore a bit off the beaten path—after all, that’s the whole point, right?

Hidden Gems: Abandoned Trails Worth Exploring

Ready to lace up your boots and hit some forgotten paths? Here are a few abandoned hiking trails across the world that offer adventure, beauty, and solitude. Just remember, even though these trails are abandoned, they still require preparation and respect for the environment.

1. Kalalau Trail (Hawai’i, USA)

The Kalalau Trail on the Na Pali Coast of Kaua’i in Hawai’i is an epic yet dangerous trek that requires permits and careful planning. While a portion of the trail is still hiked regularly, the latter sections are considerably more overgrown and treacherous. This abandoned section will take you past towering cliffs, remote beaches, and into the heart of volcanic landscapes, making it a must for adventurous hikers. However, be warned: this one’s only for seasoned hikers with serious experience.

2. Mount Lowe Railway Trail (California, USA)

Once part of an old scenic rail line in the San Gabriel Mountains, the Mount Lowe Railway Trail has mostly been reclaimed by nature. Hikers can still walk along parts of the old railway and see the remnants of tracks, bridges, and tunnels. It's a fairly easy hike with some fascinating historical tidbits, as well as panoramic views of Southern California.

3. The Old Coach Road (North Island, New Zealand)

New Zealand’s North Island is filled with stunning hiking trails, but the Old Coach Road is a hidden gem that’s flown under the radar. This abandoned route was once used to connect several stagecoach routes between towns but was made obsolete with the introduction of trains. Today, hikers can explore the remains of old cobblestone roads, forest paths, and even ancient rail bridges. It’s a fascinating mix of history and nature.

4. Antrim Hills Way (Northern Ireland)

Northern Ireland’s Antrim Hills Way might not be completely forgotten, but parts of the trail feel wonderfully remote and neglected by everyday foot traffic. You’ll travel through rolling green hills and past windswept cliffs with impeccable views of the Irish coastline. Don’t be surprised if you go hours without seeing another soul—a welcome change from the usual crowded tourist spots!

5. Overgrown Temples of Bagan (Myanmar)

While this one isn’t your traditional hiking trail, I had to mention it because it’s such a surreal experience. Bagan is an ancient city in Myanmar filled with thousands of overgrown temples. While many temples are still on the tourist map, some of the most beautiful and abandoned ones are only accessible after light to moderate hikes through dense vegetation. Discovering these hidden structures will make you feel like Indiana Jones exploring unknown treasures.

Abandoned Trail Hiking Tips: Safety First!

It’s easy to romanticize the idea of forging ahead on forgotten paths, but it’s essential to remain cautious. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when hiking abandoned trails:

- Start early: Start your hike as early as possible. Since these trails are more difficult to navigate, it’s best to ensure you’ve got plenty of daylight left.
- Tell someone: Always let a friend or family member know where you’re going. These trails aren’t as frequented, so in case something happens, they should know where to find you.
- Check for permits: Some abandoned trails still sit on private or government-owned land. Make sure you check if you need a permit beforehand to avoid fines or hassle.
- Stay on the path: It’s easy to lose the trail, especially since it's not as clear, so always stay mindful of your surroundings and use your navigation tools.
- Leave no trace: Just because the path is abandoned doesn’t mean it’s your personal playground. Respect the environment by packing out all trash and sticking to Leave No Trace principles.

Final Thoughts: The Allure of the Forgotten

There’s something magical about heading down a path forgotten by time. Whether you're seeking the solitude of nature, the thrill of discovery, or a journey into history, abandoned hiking trails can deliver an experience unlike any other. So, grab your hiking boots, your sense of adventure, and maybe a reliable map. It’s time to get lost on purpose.

Happy exploring!