Tent camping under the stars will always have its own allure. At the same time, getting to sleep in a real bed at the end of a long day of hiking is often a welcome luxury. If you love hiking and want to explore nature — but don’t like sleeping on the ground — hut-to-hut hikes are worth a try.
For some wilderness areas, these backcountry huts are the only sleep option while exploring scenic trails. They also offer the advantage of packing lighter and moving faster, since you won’t need as much gear.
We rounded up the seven best hut-to-hut hikes around the world — and what you need to know before you go.
High Sierra Camps: Yosemite National Park, California
With Yosemite National Park only becoming more popular, the High Sierra Camp system can offer a welcome escape from crowds. Access is granted by a permit, so the number of hikers is capped. The 48.8-mile loop passes through pristine pine forests and traverses stunning alpine lakes.
There are multiple camps along the way; along with basic cabins, restrooms, and showers, they provide hearty breakfasts and dinners to keep you fueled. There are five camps, each with varied availability from year to year.
Permits and cost: Anyone wishing to hike the trail must enter a lottery to obtain a permit. The lottery opens in spring each year, and trips typically run from June to September, depending on weather. There are guided and unguided options. The guided trip lasts 5 days, while the unguided option lasts for 3 days. Each night on trail (including meals) costs $200 (unguided) or $300 (guided).
Things to note: The worst of mosquito season in the Sierras tends to last from June to August, so be prepared with repellent.
Sunshine Coast Trail: British Columbia, Canada
If you want a real taste of the diversity of British Columbia, head out on the 111-mile Sunshine Coast Trail. It crosses through multiple landscapes, from sandy beaches to dense forests to high mountains.
There are 14 huts along the way, which are free to stay in, making this an outdoor adventure that won’t break the bank. The huts here are more basic, with just sleeping lofts, outhouses, fire pits, and picnic tables.
Permits and cost: Huts are free and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Most huts sleep 10 people or fewer, so be prepared in case a hut is full.
Things to note: The most challenging aspect of the trail may be getting to the trailheads. The start and end points are in rural, remote areas only accessible by gravel roads. Your best bet is arranging transportation with Sunshine Coast Shuttle, a local outfitter.
Camino Primitivo: Northern Spain
Spain’s Camino de Santiago has become a popular tourist destination. The least crowded, most remote, and most physically challenging route of this iconic trail is the Primitivo. This 199-mile trail is the oldest known pilgrimage trail in Spain, dating back to the 1000s.
It takes hikers through the rugged Spanish countryside, with stops in small towns and villages along the way. With easy access to grocery stores and restaurants, and accommodations evenly spaced out on trail, it’s easy to pack light, eat well, and sleep soundly on this hike.
Permits and cost: Hikers can stay in albergues — simple, pilgrim-only hostels that typically cost less than €10. You’ll sleep in a communal room with bunk beds. To show that you’ve walked (and thus have earned your spot in the albergue), be sure to bring along your credential, or pilgrim’s passport. Request one here for $5.
Things to note: Daily ascents and descents regularly exceed 2,000 feet, making the Primitivo a better fit for experienced hikers. Be sure to bring sturdy footwear and trekking poles. The trail begins in a major city — Oviedo — that is accessible by plane, train, or bus, making for simple logistics.
Three Capes Track: Tasmania, Australia
Since Australia is in a different hemisphere from the U.S., our winter occurs during the Australian summer. When it’s gray and gloomy here, travel to sunny Australia for four gorgeous days along the 30-mile Three Capes Track.
This trail passes through dense eucalyptus forests and high cliffs over the ocean. You’ll stay in eco-conscious cabins along the way that offer water, privies, wood heaters, and gas stoves. Each hut can accommodate up to 96 hikers.
Permits and cost: Reservations must be made in advance. The journey costs $625 per adult and $495 per child.
Things to note: Your reservation includes transfer to and from the trailheads by boat and bus, as well as a loaner guidebook.
Tour du Mont Blanc: Italy, France, and Switzerland
Want to experience three different countries on one trail? Head out on the Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB), a 105-mile loop that encircles the famous Alps mountain. It’s hard to imagine a better culinary experience than starting the day with a croissant and ending it with wine and fresh pasta.
With extreme elevation gains, the TMB is no small feat, especially considering the high altitude. But if you’re a bold adventurer confident in your physical fitness, the TMB rewards that effort. There are multiple styles of huts here — refugios, chalets, and gîtes — and with so many accommodations, it’s possible to customize your itinerary and split up the trail however you’d like.
Permits and cost: A nightly stay, which typically includes breakfast and dinner, costs around €70–€90.
Things to note: Hikers who are not experienced alpinists should only attempt the trail in the summer. Be aware that many accommodations only take cash. In many areas, camping is not allowed, so staying in these huts is your best bet.
Laugavegur Trail: Iceland
Iceland has exploded in popularity as a tourist destination in recent years, but there are still plenty of wild areas to explore. The 34-mile Laugavegur Trail includes some of the country’s most iconic landscapes: colorful mountains, hot springs, black lava fields, and densely green woodlands.
Most people take 4 days to complete the trail, which has huts that offer bunkhouses, bathrooms, running water, and gas stoves. You must reserve your stays in the huts ahead of time. This system helps prevent overcrowding and limits the environmental impacts of visitors.
Permits and cost: Most huts cost around $135 per night. Camping is available for $27 a night.
Things to note: Weather here can be extreme and unpredictable, so be sure to come prepared with rain gear and plenty of layers. The best weather window is from late June to early September.
Lake Waikaremoana Track: New Zealand
The small island nation of New Zealand punches above its weight in hikes: Its specially designated 11 Great Walks offer some of the best hut-to-hut experiences anywhere. For a true backcountry escape, try the Lake Waikaremoana Track, a remote, 29-mile trail that circles Te Urewera, a park that is legally recognized as a living person. This forest is home to almost all of the North Island’s native birds, as well as waterfalls and beaches.
The huts here are basic (with just bunks and toilets), but well-maintained by dedicated Department of Conservation staff. You must reserve them in advance.
Permits and cost: Each hut costs $20 per night. Visitors who are not residents of New Zealand or Australia must obtain a NZeTA ($70), a tourist visa, before arrival. Learn more on New Zealand’s immigration site.
Things to note: Water is available on trail, but it is not potable, so be sure to bring a filter.
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