Escape the tourist paths and explore these lesser-known but breathtaking hikes.
Chiang Mai is famous for its cultural landmarks and bustling markets, but just beyond the city limits lies a treasure trove of hidden trails that offer a more serene, off-the-beaten-path experience. These underrated hikes take you through lush jungles, along rivers, and up mountains, providing breathtaking views and intimate encounters with nature.
If you’re looking for a gentle walk or a challenging trek, here’s a guide to the 10 best lesser-known hikes around Chiang Mai.
1. Monk’s Trail to Wat Pha Lat
This peaceful, shaded hike offers a spiritual journey through the forest, leading to the tranquil Wat Pha Lat temple. Unlike the crowded paths to Doi Suthep, the Monk’s Trail is quiet, taking you through lush vegetation with occasional views of Chiang Mai below. Wat Pha Lat itself feels like a hidden sanctuary, with waterfalls, stone pathways, and meditation spots.
- Distance: 7 km (round trip)
- Difficulty: Hard
- Highlights: Buddhist statues along the path, serene waterfall by the temple, and scenic views over Chiang Mai.
- Starting Point: Trailhead near Chiang Mai University.
Sources:
2. Doi Pui to Baan Khun Chang Khian
This relatively unknown trail is a fantastic alternative to the popular Doi Suthep hike. It leads from Doi Pui National Park’s summit down to the Khun Chang Khian Hmong village, famous for its seasonal cherry blossoms in January and February. The trail takes you through dense jungle and past traditional hill tribe farms, offering a glimpse of rural life.
- Distance: 7 km (loop)
- Difficulty: Hard
- Highlights: Hmong village, cherry blossoms (Jan-Feb), and traditional farms.
- Starting Point: Doi Pui summit, accessible by motorbike or songthaew.
Sources:
3. Mae Sa Waterfall Loop
Located in Doi Suthep-Pui National Park, the Mae Sa Waterfall Loop is a lesser-visited alternative to more famous waterfalls like Sticky Waterfall. The trail loops through tropical forest, connecting a series of beautiful waterfalls where you can stop for a picnic or take a refreshing dip. The trail isn’t particularly difficult, but it provides a great opportunity to escape the crowds.
- Distance: 3 km (round trip)
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Highlights: 10 waterfalls, swimming spots, picnic areas.
- Starting Point: Mae Sa Waterfall Visitor Center.
Sources:
4. Huay Tung Tao to Doi Suthep
For those looking for a challenge, the trail from Huay Tung Tao Lake to Doi Suthep is a great option. This long, demanding trek offers panoramic views of Chiang Mai, pine forests, and a real wilderness experience without the tourist crowds.
- Distance: 12 km (round trip)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Scenic mountain views, peaceful forests, and Huay Tung Tao Lake for relaxation post-hike.
- Starting Point: Huay Tung Tao Lake entrance.
Sources:
5. Doi Inthanon Nature Trail
Thailand’s highest peak, Doi Inthanon, offers a variety of trails, but one of the least-visited is the Pha Dok Siew Nature Trail. This hike takes you through lush cloud forests, terraced rice paddies, and ends at the Pha Dok Siew Waterfall, offering a perfect mix of cultural and natural experiences.
- Distance: 5 km (round trip)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Waterfalls, rice paddies, and remote Karen hill tribe villages.
- Starting Point: Doi Inthanon National Park entrance.
Sources:
6. Ban Mae Kampong
The charming village of Ban Mae Kampong is an eco-tourism hotspot, but the hike from the village to a nearby viewpoint and waterfall remains off the beaten path. This gentle trek leads you through thick jungle, bamboo forests, and up to a scenic viewpoint overlooking the valley below.
- Distance: 6 km (round trip)
- Difficulty: Hard
- Highlights: Mae Kampong Waterfall, eco-tourism village, scenic valley views.
- Starting Point: Ban Mae Kampong village.
Sources:
7. Pha Chor Trail
Located in Mae Wang National Park, the Pha Chor trail is a fascinating geological wonder often compared to the Grand Canyon. The trail winds through towering rock formations and cliffs, providing a unique hiking experience unlike anything else in Chiang Mai.
- Distance: 1-2 km (round trip)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Highlights: Stunning rock formations, panoramic views, and desert-like terrain.
- Starting Point: Mae Wang National Park Visitor Center.
Sources:
8. Mae Taeng Trails
For those seeking an adventurous river trek, the Mae Taeng Trails offers the perfect escape. Following the Mae Taeng River, these trails leads through dense jungles and bamboo groves, passing by natural hot springs and secluded swimming spots.
- Distance: 2-26 km (round trip)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: River views, hot springs, and jungle landscapes.
- Starting Point: Mae Taeng River Camp.
Sources:
9. Ban Mai Viewpoint Loop Mon Cham
The trail Ban Mai Viewpoint Loop is a scenic hike that showcases the beauty of Chiang Mai’s highlands. As you pass through terraced farms and flower fields, you’ll get to experience the agricultural projects spearheaded by the Thai royal family to support local hill tribes.
- Distance: 8 km (round trip)
- Difficulty: Hard
- Highlights: Flower fields, agricultural terraces, hill tribe farms.
- Starting Point: Mon Cham hilltop.
Sources:
10. Ob Khan National Park Trail
Located south of Chiang Mai, Ob Khan National Park offers a peaceful hike through limestone canyons, along the Mae Khan River, and past natural pools. This underrated trail is perfect for a quiet day in nature, with scenic viewpoints and chances to swim along the way.
- Distance: 6 km (round trip)
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Highlights: Limestone canyons, river views, swimming spots.
- Starting Point: Ob Khan National Park Visitor Center.
Sources:
These underrated trails around Chiang Mai offer breathtaking natural beauty, cultural immersion, and opportunities for quiet reflection away from the crowds. If you’re hiking to remote villages, exploring lesser-known waterfalls, or discovering unique geological wonders, Chiang Mai’s hidden paths provide a perfect escape for adventurers looking to experience the city’s natural side.
Lace up your boots, pack some water, and explore the best of Chiang Mai’s unspoiled wilderness.
For more information and detailed trail maps, visit AllTrails.
