For those who love to experience breathtaking views but are tight on time or not ready for the rigors of a full hiking trek, taking shortcuts can be a game-changer. Here’s a guide to some of the world’s best hiking shortcuts that offer much of the same stunning scenery with less of the legwork.

1.Machu Picchu, Peru –Instead of the classic Inca Trail, opt for the train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes. You can then take a bus up to Machu Picchu itself, shaving days off your trip and still experiencing the wonder of this ancient site.

2.Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania – The Marangu Route is often dubbed the ‘Coca-Cola’ route due to its relative ease compared with other options. Huts along the way make this shortcut more comfortable for those not used to camping.

3.Half Dome, USA –For a quicker way to tackle this iconic rock in Yosemite National Park, secure one of the hard-to-get day hike permits for the cables route—skip the multi-day hike and go straight for the summit.

4.The Pacific Crest Trail, USA –Can’t do all 2,650 miles? No problem. Just choose a section like the 93-mile Wonderland Trail around Mount Rainier which still gives you a taste of PCT’s challenging beauty.

5.Everest Base Camp, Nepal – If you want to cut down on walking time significantly, consider taking a helicopter tour that lands at base camp. It’s considerably more expensive but provides an unforgettable aerial perspective.

6.Cinque Terre, Italy – Skip sections of this popular coastal hike with local trains connecting all five villages. Just hop off when you fancy walking a segment and then catch another train when you’re done.

7.Mont Blanc, France/Italy/Switzerland – Try the Téléphérique de l’Aiguille du Midi from Chamonix to cut out much of the ascent and reach high altitudes in comfort before exploring surrounding high-altitude trails.

8.Tongariro Alpine Crossing, New Zealand –Consider hiking just part of this famous day walk in New Zealand’s North Island by arranging pickups or drop-offs to avoid completing the full 19.4-kilometer length.

9.The Camino de Santiago, Spain –No need to walk all 780 kilometers; many start closer to their destinations like Sarria for just as memorable an experience but over only about 100 kilometers.

10.Table Mountain, South Africa –Forget the hours-long trek and board Cape Town’s cable car to zip right up Table Mountain where trails at the top offer panoramic views without all-day hikes.

Remember that while shortcuts can offer convenience and accessibility, they often miss out on some aspects that make full routes rewarding—it’s all about finding that balance that suits your needs and desires!