The world offers numerous breathtaking trails, but some push the limits of human endurance and safety.
The sources highlight six such routes known for their extreme conditions and potential for danger, challenging even seasoned adventurers.
If you’re an experienced hiker looking for the ultimate thrill or simply curious about the planet’s most perilous paths, read on – but remember, these aren’t for the faint of heart or the inexperienced.
1: Cascade Saddle, New Zealand
Located in New Zealand, Cascade Saddle is a demanding hike connecting the West Matukituki Valley and the Dart Valley.
This trail spans just over five miles and can take under three hours to complete for experienced hikers. However, its apparent brevity belies its danger.
Experts strongly warn newbie hikers against attempting this route. The primary risk here is adverse weather, which can lead to life-threatening slips.
Despite the beautiful landscape, the unpredictable conditions make Cascade Saddle a treacherous journey best left to those with significant experience.
2: Mount Hua, China
Referred to as the “most precipitous mountain under heaven,” Huashan Mountain, or Mount Hua, in China is widely considered the most dangerous hike in the world.
The trail is approximately eight miles long and typically takes about five hours to finish. The most notorious section involves hikers having to shuffle along narrow wood planks bolted directly to the mountain’s side.
With these planks suspended over 6,000 feet above the ground, the sheer drop is terrifying. It is tragically presumed to have claimed around 100 lives, underscoring its extreme risk.
3: El Caminito Del Rey, Spain
In Spain, El Caminito Del Rey has earned the ominous nickname the “Walkway of Death” among avid hikers. This historic landmark is over a century old and stands 350 feet high. The trail stretches about two miles long.
A significant danger comes from the trail’s age and condition; portions of the walkway have collapsed, creating large, dangerous openings.
Despite these perils, the site remains a popular destination, attracting an average of 1.3 million visitors annually.
While improvements have been made over time, the original trail’s history cemented its dangerous reputation.
4: The Mürren via Ferrata, Switzerland
The Mürren via Ferrata is a steep mountain trail situated 2000 feet above ground in the Swiss Alps. This challenging climb can take up to three hours to complete.
The route has a proven track record of danger, unfortunately claiming the lives of experienced hikers.
To mitigate the risks on this perilous trail, experts specifically recommend that climbers take the precaution of bringing two ropes.
This emphasizes the technical nature and inherent dangers of this high-altitude via ferrata route in Switzerland.
5: Huayna Picchu, Peru
Sitting directly above the famous Machu Picchu ruins in Peru, the Huayna Picchu hike is steeped in history, being over 500 years old.
For many who attempt it, its nickname, the “Stairs of Death,” has tragically become a reality. The infamous stairs are located at an elevation of 8,835 feet above sea level and have indeed taken lives.
Interestingly, these precarious stairs cascading down the mountain’s edge weren’t originally built for recreation but served a crucial purpose for the Incans, who used them as lookouts for potential attacks.
6: Half Dome, California
Located in Yosemite’s Mist Trail in California, Half Dome is an immensely popular yet dangerous trek, attracting over 500,000 hikers annually.
Due to its challenging nature, hikers are required to apply for a permit before embarking on this treacherous journey. The round trip is estimated to be around 17 miles.
This iconic, yet perilous, hike is considered one of the most dangerous treks in the world, having claimed the lives of over 60 people. Its combination of popularity, length, and technical challenges contributes to its high-risk status.
Alicia Richards