For the audacious and experienced hiker, there are certain trails around the world that stand out not just for their beauty, but for their extreme danger.
These risky treks test the limits of even seasoned adventurers. If you’re wondering what some of the most challenging hikes are and what makes them so perilous, read on – but be warned, these hikes are absolutely not for the inexperienced.
Here are six dangerous trails that push hikers to their limits:
1. Cascade Saddle, New Zealand
Located in New Zealand, Cascade Saddle connects the West Matukituki Valley and the Dart Valley. This hike is just over five miles long and is estimated to take under three hours to complete.
However, don’t let the relatively short distance fool you; experts strongly advise against newbie hikers attempting this trail because adverse weather conditions can lead to life-threatening slips.
2. Mount Hua, China
Known as Huashan Mountain and often referred to as the “most precipitous mountain under heaven,” Mount Hua in China is considered by some to be the most dangerous hike in the world.
The trek is almost eight miles long and takes about five hours to finish. A key part of the danger involves hikers having to shuffle along narrow wooden planks that are bolted directly to the side of the mountain.
These wooden planks are suspended over 6,000 feet above the ground. It is presumed that the Mount Hua hike has claimed around 100 lives.
3. El Caminito Del Rey, Spain
Dubbed the “Walkway of Death” by avid hikers, El Caminito Del Rey in Spain has a history stretching back over a century.
The landmark sits 350 feet high and is approximately two miles long. A significant danger of this trail is that portions have collapsed, creating large, hazardous openings. Despite the risks, an average of 1.3 million visitors visit this Spanish trail.
4. The Mürren via Ferrata, Switzerland
Located in the Swiss Alps, The Mürren via Ferrata is a steep mountain trail situated 2000 feet above ground. Climbing this trail can take up to three hours.
It has proven to be dangerous, with experienced hikers reportedly losing their lives on it. For those attempting it, experts suggest bringing two ropes when climbing.
5. Huayna Picchu, Peru
Sitting above the famous Machu Picchu ruins in Peru, the Huayna Picchu hike is over 500 years old. For some hikers, its nickname, the “Stairs of Death,” has unfortunately become a reality.
These dangerous stairs are located 8,835 feet above sea level and have taken lives. Historically, the stairs cascading down the mountain’s edge served a purpose for the Incans, who used them to watch out for possible attacks.
6. Half Dome, California
Attracting a large number of visitors, over 500,000 hikers annually, Half Dome is located in Yosemite’s Mist Trail in California.
Hikers are required to apply for a permit before embarking on this treacherous journey. The estimated round trip is about 17 miles long.
Half Dome is noted as one of the most dangerous treks in the world, having claimed the lives of over 60 people.
Alicia Richards