Hiking Trips & Walking Adventures

Hiking Trips and Walking Adventures

Lace up your hiking boots! Road Scholar offers a variety of educational hiking tours and walking trips across a range of activity levels. Our expert-led hiking trips combine time outdoors with experiential learning as you explore dramatic landscapes and historic sites around the world.

Explore the World on Foot

On a guided walking tour with Road Scholar, you’ll get your steps in while learning more about natural landscapes, regional ecosystems, historic places or the traditions of local communities. Each domestic or international walking and hiking adventure is shared with fellow learners and passionate experts who love to share their knowledge.

From easygoing walks to our most challenging hikes, you’ll find a learning adventure that matches your interests and activity level. 

Find the Right Hiking or Walking Experience

Road Scholar’s expert-led hiking tours for seniors bring curious participants on educational adventures throughout Europe, Asia, Australia, New Zealand and the Americas. We offer both challenging outdoor programs and less strenuous options for a variety of experience levels and activity preferences. 

When finding your program, compare:

• Daily walking or hiking distance
• Terrain and trail conditions
• Elevation gain
• Duration of activity
• Climate and weather exposure
• Previous hiking experience
• Activity level

Types of Hiking and Walking Trips

Mountain and Alpine Hiking

Head into mountain country on expert-led hikes that combine elevation, dramatic scenery and regional history. In the Alps, for example, you might hike amid grand mountain landscapes while learning how geology, culture and centuries of human activity have shaped the region.

Coastal and Island Walking

Coastal and island programs pair time on foot with learning about places shaped by the sea. In Madeira, participants might explore volcanic landscapes and coastal environments, while programs in Croatia offer opportunities to learn about seaside communities, mountain trails and regional culture. Each destination offers insights into local history, culture, flora and fauna. 

Forest and Nature Walks

From the towering redwoods of Northern California to forest ecosystems around the world, Road Scholars learn alongside naturalists and local experts. These programs turn the trail into a living classroom, with opportunities to study ecology, wildlife, natural history and the relationships between forests and the communities around them. 

Cultural and Historic Walking

Not every walking adventure is about challenging terrain. On some programs, participants may explore historic neighborhoods, archaeological sites and villages where local traditions thrive — all alongside local experts and fellow learners. 

Preparing for a Hiking Excursion

Before your hiking excursion, review the daily physical requirements, terrain and elevation so you know what to expect. Although required gear varies by program, common essentials may include:

• Supportive walking or hiking footwear
• Layers appropriate for the destination
• Water or a hydration system
• Sun and weather protection

If you’re unsure whether an outdoor program is a good fit for your individual health or physical needs, consider consulting an appropriate healthcare professional before enrolling.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking and Walking Trips

What Is the Difference Between a Hiking Trip and a Walking Trip?

Walking trips often cover flatter, less technical terrain. Hiking may involve trails, elevation changes or longer distances. Requirements vary by program. 

What Can I Expect on a Guided Walking Tour?

Expect expert-led lessons while you and your cohort explore on foot. You may have opportunities to learn about local history, culture or the natural environment along the way. 

How Do I Choose the Right Hiking Trip for My Activity Level?

Compare daily distance, elevation, terrain, activity duration and Road Scholar’s activity-level information to find a hiking trip that matches your abilities and preferences. 

Are There Hiking Tours for Seniors With Different Experience Levels?

Yes. Program requirements vary, so choose based on your hiking experience, interests and preferred physical demands rather than age alone. We also recommend checking the activity level before enrolling. 

Do I Need Hiking Experience to Join a Road Scholar Program?

Not always. Some programs require previous hiking experience, while others may be appropriate for less-experienced walkers. Review the individual program requirements and activity levels before enrolling. 

What Should I Pack for a Hiking or Walking Trip?

Pack supportive footwear, destination-appropriate layers, water, sun protection and any program-specific gear listed in your materials.

How Much Walking or Hiking Is Included Each Day?

Hiking times vary by program. Make sure to review each itinerary and activity level to understand the physical requirements before enrolling. 

Find Your Next Hiking or Walking Program

Road Scholar offers educational hiking and walking trips throughout Europe, North America and destinations around the world. Participants discover how environments have shaped local cultures, traditions and cuisine. 

We offer options for solo travel and small group programs. Using the search filters, you can find programs based on your preferred destination, activity level, duration, price and date range. 

Explore travel tips and find a program by activity level to get started.