Collection
Hiking Towns
Small mountain bases for big trail days.
Towns where the trailhead is at the end of the main street. Bakeries, gear shops, granite ridges out the back door.
The hiking towns we publish on Quest Air are chosen for what they ask of the traveller and what they return in exchange. Long approaches, small populations, weather that sets the day's rhythm. These are not destinations engineered for ease. They reward patience.
What follows are our current published guides in this collection. Each is written by a contributor with time spent on the ground. Use them as starting points rather than itineraries. The best trips, we have found, are the ones that diverge from the plan early.
Travel slowly. Stay in places run by people who live there. Eat local food. Pack out everything you carry in. The traveller who treats a small place with care is the traveller who is welcomed back.
Guides in this collection
Hiking Towns with Stunning Trails
Small towns where the trailhead is at the end of the main street, and the bakery opens early.
11 min read
Mountain Communities for Walkers
Smaller, quieter places without the international hiking reputation, but with the trails and the welcome.
10 min read
Small Towns Near National Parks
Bases for park visits that haven't been overrun, in countries from Argentina to Mongolia.
10 min read
Trail Networks Worth Visiting
Linked multi-day systems from the GR routes of Europe to the Te Araroa in New Zealand.
11 min read
Quiet Hiking Destinations
Places where the trail register has a single entry from the day before, and the peaks are mostly your own.
9 min read
Frequently asked
When is the best time to visit hiking towns?
It depends on the region. Most temperate destinations in this collection work best in shoulder seasons. Tropical and arctic regions have their own windows. Each individual guide notes the recommended season.
How do I get there?
Most destinations require a regional flight followed by road, ferry, or smaller aircraft. Allow at least one buffer day on either end of any final connection.
Is independent travel possible?
Yes, in most cases. A few destinations benefit from or require a local guide. We note this in the individual guides.
What gear do I need?
Varies by destination. Layered clothing, sturdy footwear, and a way to carry water cover most situations. Specific gear notes are in each guide.