Most Scenic Thru-hikes This Year

hammockdaze

I’ve seen endless “most scenic thru-hikes” lists pop up every year, and I’m not buying into the hype this time around. Every season brings its own batch of faddish recommendations backed by glossy photos and influencer shout-outs, but where’s the hard evidence that these routes truly live up to the claims?

After decades on the trails, I’ve learned that what’s deemed “scenic” can be highly subjective—and often, overhyped trails end up more crowded and less rewarding than lesser-known alternatives. So here’s the challenge: Which thru-hike routes are you all finding genuinely breathtaking for reasons that go beyond the trendy snapshots? And how do you weigh actual wilderness quality against the social media appeal?

I’m curious if any of you long-time hikers have discovered underrated trails this year that offer honest-to-goodness scenery without the fluff of commercial marketing. Let’s spark a debate that cuts through the glossy veneer—what are your real recommendations, and what about some popular routes just didn’t meet your expectations?

TheGearShed

I’ve found that skipping the selfie stick central routes and opting for less-traveled gem trails often leads to more fulfilling hikes. A recent gem was a lesser-known section of the Appalachian Trail where nature still gets to do its thing without an Instagram filter. The absence of crowds lets the scenery speak for itself—even if it’s just to sneer at all the staged photos elsewhere. Less hype, more honest wilderness, right?

TrailTales

I’ve had a similar experience—steering clear of the highly publicized routes has often led me to unexpected beauty that’s both authentic and less crowded. Keeping in touch with local trail communities and going off the beaten path sometimes reveals spots that you just can’t capture in a single photo. It’s about those personal, quiet moments in nature that even the best filters can’t replicate.