10 Must-Watch Hiking Movies

Description: This film chronicles the true story of Christopher McCandless, who abandons his possessions to live in the Alaskan wilderness, seeking a raw, unfiltered existence.

Fact: Sean Penn, the director, spent years trying to get the rights to adapt Jon Krakauer's book. The film's ending was shot in the real bus where McCandless lived.

Description: A group of prisoners escape from a Siberian gulag and embark on a 4,000-mile trek to freedom, showcasing the human spirit's resilience.

Fact: The film is inspired by the real-life escape of Slavomir Rawicz, though the authenticity of his account is debated. The movie was shot in various locations including Morocco and Bulgaria to replicate the diverse landscapes of the journey.

Description: Two old friends decide to hike the Appalachian Trail, leading to humorous and heartfelt moments as they confront their past and the trail's challenges.

Fact: The film is based on Bill Bryson's memoir of the same name. Robert Redford and Nick Nolte, who play the leads, had to get in shape for the role, reflecting the physical demands of the hike.

Description: After his son dies on the Camino de Santiago, a father decides to complete the pilgrimage in his memory, finding solace and new friendships along the way.

Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life experiences of Emilio Estevez's son, Taylor, who walked the Camino de Santiago. The movie was shot on location along the actual pilgrimage route.

Description: Aron Ralston's harrowing tale of survival after being trapped by a boulder during a solo hike in Utah, showcasing human endurance and the will to live.

Fact: James Franco, who plays Ralston, was nominated for a Golden Globe for his performance. The film was shot in the actual location where the incident occurred.

Description: While primarily a survival story, it includes elements of a grueling journey through the wilderness, highlighting the harsh realities of nature.

Fact: Leonardo DiCaprio won an Oscar for Best Actor for his role, which involved eating raw bison liver and enduring extreme cold conditions.

Description: Based on Cheryl Strayed's memoir, this film follows her solo hike along the Pacific Crest Trail, exploring themes of grief, self-discovery, and healing.

Fact: Reese Witherspoon, who plays Strayed, lost 15 pounds to portray the physical transformation of her character. The film was shot in sequence to reflect the chronological journey of the hike.

Description: This film recounts the disastrous 1996 Mount Everest expedition, focusing on the human spirit's resilience against the mountain's unforgiving nature.

Fact: The film was shot on location at Everest Base Camp, with additional scenes filmed in the Italian Alps. The cast endured harsh conditions to capture the realism of the climb.

Description: While not a traditional hike, this film captures the high-wire walk between the Twin Towers, offering a unique perspective on the journey of Philippe Petit.

Fact: The film was shot in 3D to give viewers the sensation of walking the wire. Joseph Gordon-Levitt performed many of his own stunts.

Description: Robyn Davidson's solo trek across the Australian desert with her dog and four camels is a tale of determination, solitude, and the vast beauty of the outback.

Fact: The film was shot in the actual locations of Davidson's journey, including the Great Victoria Desert. Mia Wasikowska, who plays Davidson, learned to handle camels for the role.