The breathtaking island country of New Zealand is a must on any avid traveler’s list, especially if they fancy hiking and trekking. Blessed with glorious landscapes and splendid wildlife, the home of Middle-Earth is where you can discover thousands of kilometers of hiking trails that can only be described as heavenly. If you are planning to travel to New Zealand, don’t miss these 5 Great Walks. Maintained by the Department of Conservation, these trails are located across the country and are easily accessible via towns and cities for locals as well as tourists:

Milford Track
A very popular destination, you can take this New Zealand trail to enjoy stunning valleys sculpted by glaciers. With an annual average rainfall of 22 feet, Milford Track boasts of dense forests and multiple cascades, including the colossal Sutherland Falls.

Abel Tasman Coast Track
Open all year, the Abel Tasman Coast Track is a perfect trail if you are a beach person. Situated on the top of the South Island, this track is surrounded by a scenic coastline that houses peculiar boulder formations, golden sands, and, of course, crystal-clear bays.

Tongariro Northern Circuit
If you plan to travel to New Zealand sometime between late October and late April, you shouldn’t miss the Tongariro Northern Circuit. This walk surrounds Mount Ngauruhoe, an active volcano, and you can also spot explosion pits and craters on this trail. In this dramatic landscape, emerald lakes, waterfalls, and wildflowers coexist as well.

Whanganui Journey
If you are looking for a different kind of adventure, head over to the Whanganui trail. In this lush national park, you can canoe or kayak and experience the best of ancient Maori heritage. Furthermore, the native forests and beautiful birdsong leave you feeling rejuvenated and delighted.

Routeburn Track
Embellished with awe-inspiring views, Routeburn Track can be easily accessed from the Adventure Capital, Queenstown. If you’re traveling to New Zealand sometime during winter or spring, this Great Walk is not to be missed. Taking you from Mount Aspiring National Park to Fiordland National Park or the other way round, this track lets you explore massive valleys, charming lakes and waterfalls, and handsome mountains.