Increasing numbers of solo female travelers across the globe are catching on about the delightful experience of traveling alone, and hiking is at its center. Something is empowering about stepping into nature alone, following meandering paths through mountains, woods, coastlines, and national parks. However, for solo female travelers, safety concerns are paramount.
The good news is that there are plenty of secure, friendly, and beautiful hiking spots for solo female travelers around the globe. From beginner solo female travelers to avid trekkers, this article spotlights 15 of the world’s safest and loveliest hiking trails in 2025, carefully picked for their safety, ease of access, community, and natural attractiveness.
How We Selected These Hiking Spots. We chose these hiking areas based on a variety of factors, such as
Low crime rates and overall safety for solo female travelers.
safe infrastructure, such as well-signposted tracks and rescue access
The positive responses from solo female travelers
Access to local support facilities such as guided hikes, ranger centers, and secure accommodations.
Respect for cultures among solo female travelers
Whether for a weekend hike or a multi-day outing, these spots provide peace of mind and memories you will never forget.
Queenstown, New Zealand – Ben Lomond Track (For Solo Female Travelers)
Why is it secure
New Zealand is always rated as one of the world’s safest nations, and Queenstown is its outdoor adventure hub. The Ben Lomond Track provides beautiful alpine panoramas and good-quality tracks, ideal for solo female travelers.
Trail highlight
The 6-8 hour round-trip hike treats you to stunning views across Lake Wakatipu and into the Southern Alps.
Travel tip for solo female travelers
Get an early start to beat the masses and watch the sun rise. Queenstown also has numerous hostels and tour groups for Solo Female travelers.
Zermatt, Switzerland – 5 Lakes Walk, (Solo Female Travelers)
Why is it safe
Low crime rates, reliable public transportation, and clean trail networks characterize Switzerland.
Zermatt is an auto-free town and a dream base for solo female trekkers.
Trail highlight
The 5 Lakes Walk has glimpses of the Matterhorn reflected in glassy-clear mountain lakes.
Travel tip
Get the Swiss Mobility app for in-depth hiking maps and emergency alerts
Banff National Park, Canada – Lake Agnes Tea House Trail (Solo Female Travelers)
Why it’s safe
Canada boasts friendly people and well-conserved national parks. Banff has ranger programs, comprehensive trail guides, and an established tourism infrastructure.
Trail highlight
A 7 km moderately difficult hike to an old tea house located next to a mountain lake
Travel tip
Wildlife is prevalent—hike in daylight and carry bear spray.
Iceland – Reykjadalur Hot Springs Trail (Solo Female Travelers)
Why It’s Safe
Iceland is a particularly secure destination for solo female travelers. The walk along the path leading to the valley in Reykjadalur is straightforward and culminates in natural hot springs.
Trail highlight
3 km round-trip hike along steaming geothermal rivers and hills.
Travel tip
Steer clear of icy roads in winter. Check weather forecasts through Safetravel regularly.
Japan – Kumano Kodo Trail
Why it’s safe
Japan has high rankings in world indices for safety. The Kumano Kodo is a well-marked, culturally significant, and solo female traveler-friendly UNESCO World Heritage pilgrimage trail.
Trail highlight
The Nakahechi path is well-known and goes through serene villages and old shrines
Travel tip
Stay at traditional guesthouses (ryokan) along the way for an authentic experience.
Slovenia – Triglav National Park
Why is it safe
Slovenia is clean, serene, and has an emerging eco-tourism environment. The park provides beginners and professionals alike with terrific support facilities and trails for solo female travelers.
Trail highlight
Hike up to Bohinj Lake or conquer the famous Mount Triglav peak (with a guide).
Travel tip
It is best to visit the Julian Alps between June and September.
Patagonia (Argentina & Chile) – Laguna de los Tres
Why it is safe
Despite its remote location, Patagonia is vastly popular among solo female trekkers because of its infrastructure and trekking community.
Trail highlight
Laguna de los Tres provides a beautiful view of Mount Fitz Roy and has good trails marked out.
Travel tip
Base yourself in El Chaltén, where English is commonly spoken in hostels and trekking centers.
Scotland – West Highland Way
Why is it safe
There exists a thriving hiking tradition in Scotland and good networks for hospitality. The trail is well frequented by solo female travelers and well-supported by locals.
Trail highlight
A 154km long trail from Milngavie to Fort William, punctuated with lochs and mountains.
Travel tip
There are baggage transfer facilities available, making life easier for solo female trekkers.
Overland Track, Tasmania, Australia
Why is it safe
It is a natural heaven in Tasmania. Overland Track is an organized multi-day walk with huts, booking arrangements, and patrolled rangers.
Trail highlight
5 kilometers across Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park’s varied ecosystems.
Travel tip
Permits are needed, and the ideal time is between October and May.
Norway – Romsdalseggen Ridge H
Why it’s safe
Norway is clean, secure, and boasts some of Europe’s most stunning scenery. People are friendly and assistive, and emergency services are excellent for solo female travelers.
Trail highlight
A 10 km ridge hike with vistas of fjords and snow-covered mountains.
Travel tip
Hike in summer and layer up; it does get cold at high altitude.
Costa Rica – Arenal Volcano National Park
Why It is Safe
Costa Rica fosters eco-tourism and is a safe country for solo female travelers in Central America
Trail highlight
Short walks around the volcano and along lush rainforests teeming with life.
Travel tip
It is best not to hike during the wet season (May-November). Hire a guided tour for your safety.
Portugal – Rota Vicentina
Why is it safe?
It is one of Europe’s safest nations and offers a warm welcome for solo female travelers. This is a tranquil and picturesque coastal path
Trail highlight
The Fisherman’s Trail goes along cliffs and beaches in the Alentejo and Algarve regions.
Travel tip
Reside in local homestays and drink lots of water. The heat can be severe during the summer months.
South Korea – Bukhansan National Park
Why is it safe
It is very safe for solo female travelers. Bukhansan is located just outside Seoul and provides an untamed getaway amidst city amenities.
Trail highlight
Panoramic views of Seoul and granite ridgelines are available from Baegundae Peak.
Travel tip
Weekends are typically crowded—try early or midweek for a less congested hike.
Hawaii, USA – Kalalau Trail (Kauai)
Why is it safe
Although tough, Hawaii is an American state that has good emergency facilities. The Kalalau Trail is regulated and provides spectacular views along Hawaii’s Nā Pali Coast.
Trail highlight
11 miles (in one direction) along cliffs, waterfalls, and hidden beaches.
Travel tip
A permit is required. Experienced hikers alone should undertake the entire walk.
Ireland – The Dingle Way
Why is it Safe
The hospitality of the Irish people makes Ireland perfect for solo female travelers. The Dingle Way encircles the Dingle Peninsula with quaint villages and antiquity spots.
Trail highlight
A 179 km round walk which includes a combination of beach walks, country lanes, and hill paths.
Travel tip
Divide the trip into day sections and spend your time in comfortable B&Bs.
Safety Tips for Solo Female Hikers:
Make preparations in advance. Understand your route, weather conditions, and closest shelters. Notify somebody about your plans. Provide your schedule and estimated return time. Be resourceful.
The essentials are a map, water, snacks, a first-aid kit, a GPS, a whistle, a headlamp, and rain gear. Trust your instincts. If a situation does not feel right, turn around or get assistance. Avoid solo night hiking. Work within daylight hours.
Use Women’s Travel Forums Websites such as Solo Female Travelers, Girls Love Travel, and Facebook groups offer local recommendations and meetups.
Top Apps & Software for Safe Solo Hiking in 2025:
AllTrails – Trail Maps, Reviews, and Navigation, Gaia GPS – Offline Maps for Remote Areas, Cairn – Provides emergency location information and follows your whereabouts.
bSafe – App for personal safety with live tracking and emergency alert.
Komoot – Ideal for planning your route using elevation information.
Ward Solo hiking as a woman can be one of the freest and most inspiring adventures you will ever do. With an appropriate destination, careful planning, and a few essential pieces of gear, you can enjoy the world’s most spectacular trails entirely your way, safely.
From Switzerland’s alpine lakes to Costa Rican volcanic trails, the world awaits solo female travelers. Lace up your hiking boots, grab your gear, and get into nature. You have got this.
Is it okay for a woman to hike alone?
Indeed, with proper planning, destination, and precautions, solo hiking can be empowering and safe as well for solo female travelers.
What is the most secure country for solo female trekkers in 2025?
New Zealand, Switzerland, Japan, and Iceland are always ranked high when it comes to solo female travelers’ safety.
Should I join a hiking group while I’m traveling as a solo female travelers?
It is a wonderful idea, particularly for remote trails. Most places have group day hikes or guided treks available.