After hiking some of the world's great trails, Brandon Wilson was excited to hear about the Via Alpina, paths running across eight countries on the backbone of the Alps. Besides promising immersion into Alpine life and wilderness, it was the ultimate adventure. It meant climbing 3000 feet from valley to mountain hut each day-1200 miles-for months. Optimistically, Wilson envisioned it as a European Appalachian Trail, only with better food and wine.

Faster than you can say "schnitzel," he coaxed...