The beauty and challenge of nature can be personally experienced through hiking, but some of the world’s routes are challenging for the weak of the heart. These routes, which frequently involve steep ascents, narrow ledges, and variable weather, test the limits of mental toughness and physical endurance.
These are some of the most hazardous hiking routes in the world for those who are daring and are looking for both amazing views and sheer risk. The hazards and benefits of each path vary, involving experience, planning, and a strong spirit of adventure.
10 Most Dangerous Hiking Trails in the World
- Via Ferrata, Italy and Austria
- The Death Trail -Mount Huashan, China
- Rover’s Run Trail, Alaska
- Devil’s Path, New York
- Pacaya Volcano, Guatemala
- Skyline/Muir Snowfield Trail -Mount Rainier, Washington
- The Snowmen Trek -Bhutan
- El Caminito del Rey -Spain
- Drakensberg Traverse -South Africa
- HUAYIN CITY, CHINA: HUA SHAN TRAIL
1. Via Ferrata, Italy and Austria
Via Ferrata, meaning “iron way” in Italian has been used for centuries, with ladders aiding travelers in the Dolomites. During World War I, specialized troops also used these routes. Today, the paths are easier to navigate with added steel cables, ropes, wooden walkways, and suspension bridges. However, risks remain.
Safety depends on securing a via Ferrata set—a special carabiner system—to the cable supports. Climbers face sheer walls and narrow ledges, and accidents have occurred on routes of all difficulty levels. In 2009, a British woman tragically fell 600 feet on an intermediate route after slipping on snow. Another fatality in Austria was due to gear failure. Remarkably, pro mountain biker Harald Philipp once conquered the route on a mountain bike.
2. The Death Trail -Mount Huashan, China
The “Death Trail” on Mount Huashan, China, is known as the “world’s most dangerous hiking trail.” Standing at 2,154 meters (7,066 feet), this mountain is famous for its steep paths and narrow, vertical staircases. The most perilous route is the plank trail to the South Mountain.
The trail features wooden platforms nailed to the mountainside, rusty chain handles, and sections where planks are missing entirely. To reach it, climbers must first tackle a vertical rebar staircase. Crowds, especially during summer when visitors come to see historical Taoist monasteries, add to the danger.
While no official death toll exists, rumors suggest over 100 people die here each year. Whether you’re a beginner or expert, the “Death Trail” remains one of the scariest and most treacherous hikes.
3. Rover’s Run Trail, Alaska
Rover’s Run Trail in Anchorage’s Far North Bicentennial Park isn’t dangerous because of terrain or weather. Instead, it’s the brown bears that make it risky. In summer, bears gather here when the nearby river is full of salmon, leading to frequent encounters and even maulings.
Park officials plan to reroute the trail away from the creek due to the danger. Warning signs about bear activity are posted, and the trail is often closed when bears are active. Moose, which can charge if threatened, are another hazard often seen on this trail.
4. Devil’s Path, New York
The Devil’s Path in the Catskills of New York is similarly vicious as its name implies. The trail stretches over 24 miles, with its eastern portion being the most challenging. A six-mile round-trip hike up Indian Mountain is steep and relentless, with slippery roots to grab and a 10-foot “chimney” climb around a fallen tree.
The trail is dangerous, with mossy rocks, deep mud, and water adding to the risks. Tripping in many spots can be fatal. Officials report that someone dies almost every year on Devil’s Path, whether from a fall or a heart attack. This hiking trail is not suitable for those who are inexperienced or afraid of heights.
5. Pacaya Volcano, Guatemala
Pacaya Volcano in Guatemala, near the capital, is an active volcano and a popular tourist spot. It has been erupting since 1965, with eruptions causing several fatalities. A 2010 eruption killed three people, and another in 2013 sent lava flowing down the mountain, forcing nearby villages to evacuate.
Even without eruptions, the climb is dangerous. The steep cinder cone has hot, crumbling ground, and some hikers have fallen in. Pacaya continues to spew rocks, ash, and vapor, making it a risky yet intriguing destination.
6. Skyline/Muir Snowfield Trail -Mount Rainier, Washington
The Skyline/Muir Snowfield Trail on Mount Rainier, Washington, might seem like an easy 9-mile hike at first. It begins with scenic meadows, wildflowers, lush forests, and shimmering lakes. However, it soon becomes challenging, especially for experienced climbers.
The hardest part is the 2,800-foot vertical climb up the Muir Snowfield, which is steep, snowy, and cold. Unpredictable Pacific storms add to the risk. Over 100 climbers have slipped, fallen, or frozen on this trail. Despite the dangers, the views of Mount Rainier and the stunning scenery make it unforgettable. And yes, Mount Rainier is an active volcano!
7. The Snowman Trek -Bhutan
The Snowman Trek in Bhutan is one of the toughest treks, with high altitudes and steep ascents. Starting in Paro and ending 24 days later in Nikka Chhu, it’s a challenge meant only for experienced hikers. Altitudes stay above 4,000 meters (13,000 feet), reaching up to 5,332 meters (17,500 feet) at the highest pass.
This trek is only possible in summer due to snow closures. Here you can enjoy beautiful views of the Himalayas, lush valleys, dense forests, and snow-capped peaks. Hikers also explore and enjoy the remote mountain kingdom of Lunana. The trek’s remoteness and unpredictable weather make it a once-in-a-lifetime but demanding adventure. Flexibility and experience are essential.
8. El Caminito del Rey -Spain
El Caminito del Rey, or the “Little King’s Path,” is one of the world’s scariest hikes. Though technically illegal to walk as of 2014, it still attracts daredevils. The path was closed due to crumbling sections and several deaths but was set to reopen in 2015.
The trail runs along the Guadalhorce River gorge, hanging 100 feet high on sheer cliffs. Built over 100 years ago for hydroelectric workers, the decaying pathways and old safety ropes add to the danger. Vertigo is a big challenge, making it unsuitable for those afraid of heights. Adventurous hikers bring ropes to navigate missing sections, but even after restoration, it remains a tough trek.
9. Drakensberg Traverse -South Africa
The Drakensberg Traverse in South Africa is a challenging trek spanning 220-240 km (about 150 miles) with no marked trail or set route. The trek begins with rickety chain ladders leading to the ridge, where animal tracks and rocks guide the way.
Hikers face steep hills, strong winds, snow, and mud, along with the risk of thieves targeting campers. With no checkpoints or facilities, self-sufficiency is essential. Challenges include altitude sickness, cold weather, and rough terrain. Despite the difficulties, the stunning views of waterfalls, sunrises, and the massive rock formation, “The Amphitheater,” make it an unforgettable adventure.
10. HUAYIN CITY, CHINA: HUA SHAN TRAIL
The trek up China’s beautiful Mount Hua is likely the most crazy hiking experience offered by humans, allowing you to walk across thin wooden boards from thousands of feet above the ground. This is probably the last time that you will make a mistake. If you make a mistake, there are no barriers or nets to catch you.
But you will have to ascend screaming ladders, the place to shaky ropes, and come across steep staircases that even experienced mountaineers will experience an overwhelming feeling of terror. Even worse, you’ll have to squeeze past walkers descending from the 7,000-foot South Peak peak because the trail is mainly two-way. You’ll be lucky to make it if you can avoid the occasional snowstorm or heavy windstorm.
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Bottom Line:
These treacherous trails provide the most dangerous and thrilling hiking experiences in the world. Every trail has a different challenge that calls for both mental and physical courage, from the treacherous “Death Trail” in China to the erratic weather and difficult terrain of the Snowmen Trek in Bhutan.
Despite the risk potential, these hikes provide adventurers a chance to test their boundaries and take in some of the most beautiful views on the planet. But it’s important to approach these routes prepared, cautious, and with a healthy respect for the power of nature.
