There is some magic involved in the gradual vanishing of the cool pastel colors being replaced by blazing reds while standing on a mountaintop or coastal cliff reached only by foot. A sunrise or sunset hike is rewarded by wonderful color displays, deserted trails, and nature. For the casual traveler or an experienced trekker, these destinations around the world attest that some of the greatest shows on Earth happen twice a day.
1. Mount Batur, Bali, Indonesia – Sunrise Above the Clouds
Bali’s Mount Batur is famous among sunrise enthusiasts. It is said that people begin their trek with only the faint light of their headlamps and the distant roosters calling in the villages at around 2 a.m. For two hours, one climbs up shorter black volcanic ash slopes to reach the rim of a volcanic crater, where after sunrise, there is a splendid sight of Lake Batur on the right and Mount Agung on the left. Below, the rice terraces and jungle canopy are slowly awakened by the clouds. The guides sometimes bring along some fresh eggs to be steamed over the volcanic vents as a nice treat before basking in the first hot rays of light.
2. Haleakalā Crater, Maui, Hawaii – “House of the Sun”
Because of an alien sunrise, Haleakalā National Park has acquired global fame. From its 10,023 feet summit, you might just feel as if you are on the moon. If you arrive early, the sun creeps towards the horizon, bringing with it bright orange and pink hues while clouds float below you. Take an evening hike to see the sun sink into the Pacific and linger for stargazing.
3. Mount Fuji, Japan – The Pilgrimage to See the First Light
The climb up Japan’s iconic Mount Fuji is a physical adventure and a spiritual journey. A majority of hikers start late evening to reach the 3,776-meter peak by dawn, known as goraikō—“arrival of light.” The first rays of the sun break through the forceful clouds, granting views of Tokyo and lakes in the distance. The official climbing season is from July to early September, although trails and huts remain open during this time and the weather is a little bit stable.
4. Trolltunga, Norway – Sunset Over a Glacial Lake
Europe’s most dramatic cliff hike is arguably Norway’s Trolltunga (Troll’s Tongue). The trail is long: approximately 27 kilometers for a round trip; hence, many hikers camp overnight here to witness the sunsets. The rock ledge juts out over Ringedalsvatnet Lake, reflecting the fiery sky down below. Under the last rays of summer twilight, the view is like a painting that chooses not to fade away.
5. Grand Canyon, Arizona, USA – Desert Skies at Their Finest
The enormous size of the Grand Canyon makes the sunrise and the sunset sans infinite. Yaki Point or Hopi Point are vantage points that might be reached by a short walk, but an even more freeing experience would be offered by an early morning hike down the South Kaibab Trail. The walls of the canyon change color, beginning with gold, then deepening into red, and finally transitioning to purple, as the sun keeps rising higher. At the end of the day, trails along the Rim provide an opportunity for watching the sunset with dramatic silhouettes painted across the sandstone.
6. Lion’s Head, Cape Town, South Africa – Ocean Meets City Lights
Lion’s Head is a superb combination of hiking in ocean views and city sparkle. This moderate trail has a spiral form and requires an hour and a half to reach the summit. Sunrise will give you the last touch of glowing Table Mountain, and sunset glimmers give way to the Atlantic Ocean glowing orange before city lights flicker on. This trail is well-marked, especially when hikers are comfortable with low-light hiking. This is a local favorite and one-hiker favorite, too.
Tips for the Perfect Golden-Hour Hike
- Start Early or Stay Late: Allow extra time. Trails get tricky in the dark.
- Pack the Essentials: Headlamp, layers, and plenty of water are your must-haves.
- Check the Weather: Clear skies mean better views; clouds add drama.
- Respect Nature: Stay on marked trails, and pack out all your trash.
Sunrise or sunset hikes remind us that travel needs a few hours and, at worst, effort; it can be free of charge. From the volcanic rims of Bali to glacial cliffs in Norway, these golden-hour journeys bring the kind of glory that stays with someone long after the colors vanish. Thus, set your boots on and let the morning or evening sun guide your next adventure.
