Wild and Free: Hiking Remote Islands Around the World

10 April 2026

Ever felt the urge to ditch the noise, lace up your boots, and set off into the unknown? If so, you're not alone. There's something utterly magical about hiking on remote islands—where the trails are untamed, the landscapes are spellbinding, and your only company might be the whisper of the wind or the distant cry of a seabird. These places are the epitome of freedom, offering you a front-row seat to nature in all its raw, unfiltered glory.

In this guide, we're diving deep into some of the most breathtaking and lesser-known hiking destinations—wild islands where adventure meets tranquility. Pack your sense of wonder (and maybe some extra sunscreen), because we're heading off the beaten path!

Why Hike Remote Islands?

Why choose remote islands over well-trodden mountain trails or national parks? Simple. Because these spots redefine what it means to disconnect and reconnect at the same time. Here's why island hikes are in a league of their own:

- Solitude Like Nowhere Else – Forget the crowded trails. Here, it’s just you, the wind, and endless panoramas.
- Untouched Beauty – Nature in its rawest form, often with landscapes that look straight out of a dream.
- Wild Encounters – Whether it’s rare birds, curious seals, or even bioluminescent shores, remote islands offer some of the coolest wildlife encounters.
- A Challenge Worth Taking – Many island trails are rugged and unpredictable, making them perfect for thrill-seekers.

1. Skye Trail, Scotland – Misty Mountains and Dramatic Cliffs

Ah, Scotland—land of myths, legends, and landscapes that make your soul sing. The Skye Trail is no joke. This 80-mile (128 km) unmarked route takes you through some of Skye’s most dramatic scenery, from the sheer cliffs of the Quiraing to the jagged peaks of the Cuillin Mountains.

What Makes It Special?

- Ever-changing landscapes – Misty moors, towering cliffs, and lochs that shimmer under moody skies.
- No crowds, just pure adventure – Since it’s unmarked, only seasoned hikers dare to take it on.
- The Old Man of Storr – One of the most iconic rock formations in the world.

Pro Tip: Bring waterproof gear—this is Scotland, after all!

2. Lord Howe Island, Australia – Jurassic Park Vibes Without the Dinosaurs

If you’ve ever dreamt of stepping into a real-life postcard, Lord Howe Island is the place. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this tiny island—just 7 miles long—boasts insane biodiversity and hikes that feel straight out of a fantasy novel.

Best Hike: Mt Gower Summit

- 9-mile (14 km) round trip – But every step is worth it.
- Misty forests and rare species – Think prehistoric ferns and birds found nowhere else on Earth.
- 360° views at the top – The kind that’ll make your Instagram followers jealous.

Pro Tip: Only 400 visitors are allowed on the island at a time, so book your trip early!

3. Fogo Island, Canada – Where Icebergs Meet Volcanic Trails

Ever wanted to hike through time? Fogo Island, off the coast of Newfoundland, is a geological wonderland. With its dramatic cliffs, ancient rocks, and the occasional iceberg floating by, it's a place where nature shows off at every corner.

Must-Hike Trail: Lion’s Den

- 5-mile (8 km) loop – Perfect for a half-day adventure.
- Views of the wild North Atlantic – Expect seabirds, waves crashing on cliffs, and maybe even a passing whale.
- Local charm – Fogo Island is known for its creative community and unique stilted hotels.

Pro Tip: Visit in spring or early summer for the best chance to see icebergs drifting down from Greenland.

4. Yakushima, Japan – The Ancient Forests of Princess Mononoke

If hiking through misty, ancient forests sounds like your kind of adventure, Yakushima needs to be on your list. This subtropical island off the southern coast of Japan’s Kyushu region is home to thousand-year-old cedar trees and moss-covered trails straight out of a Studio Ghibli film.

Best Hike: Jomon Sugi Trail

- 13-mile (21 km) round trip – It’s long, but completely surreal.
- Home to Jomon Sugi – One of the oldest trees in Japan (estimated to be over 7,000 years old!).
- Mystical atmosphere – The dense fog and ancient trees make it feel like you’ve stepped into another world.

Pro Tip: Bring good hiking shoes—it’s humid, and the trails can be slippery.

5. Isla Navarino, Chile – The Southernmost Trek on Earth

Head as far south as you can without falling off the map, and you’ll land on Isla Navarino, Chile. This remote island, located at the bottom of South America, offers some of the most remote and challenging hiking in the world.

Top Trail: Dientes de Navarino

- 5-day trekking adventure – This is no walk in the park, but the views are worth every step.
- Rugged, wild, and untouched – Think jagged peaks, glacier-fed lakes, and a sense of complete isolation.
- Bragging rights – You’ve officially hiked one of the southernmost trails on the planet.

Pro Tip: Pack for four seasons in a day—Patagonia’s weather is as unpredictable as a coin toss.

6. Réunion Island, France – A Hiker’s Paradise in the Indian Ocean

If you want dramatic volcanic landscapes mixed with tropical beauty, Réunion Island delivers. This French island east of Madagascar is a trekking paradise, with everything from jagged peaks to lush green valleys.

Best Hike: Mafate Cirque

- Multi-day trekking or shorter day hikes – Your choice, but every route is jaw-dropping.
- No roads, only trails – This means no cars, no noise—just nature.
- Volcanic wonders – The island is home to the active Piton de la Fournaise, one of the most impressive volcanoes in the world.

Pro Tip: Brush up on your French—while it’s part of France, English isn’t widely spoken.

Final Thoughts

There’s an undeniable charm to trekking across islands that few others have dared to visit. Whether you're battling the elements in Patagonia, wandering through time in Japan’s ancient forests, or summiting peaks surrounded by the endless ocean, these experiences stay with you forever.

So, what are you waiting for? Pick a destination, pack your bags, and go chase that wild and free feeling. Because trust me—there’s nothing quite like standing at the edge of the world with the wind in your hair and adventure in your soul.