For some, the thrill of adventure lies in conquering the world’s most dangerous hikes. These hikes offer breathtaking views, but they come with a steep price – they are often difficult, treacherous, and require a great deal of preparation and experience. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at some of the world’s most dangerous hikes and what makes them so challenging.
While these hikes are not for the faint-hearted, they offer breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment that’s hard to find elsewhere. Here are some of the most dangerous hikes you can take around the world:
Mount Huashan Plank Walk, China
The Mount Huashan Plank Walk is one of the most dangerous hikes in the world. The trail is located on the side of a steep mountain, and hikers must traverse narrow planks of wood bolted to the side of the cliff face. The trail also includes a number of ladders, steps, and chains to help hikers ascend to the top of the mountain. The hike is not for the faint of heart, as there are no safety rails or harnesses, and one wrong step could mean a fall of hundreds of feet.
El Caminito Del Rey, Spain
El Caminito Del Rey is a narrow and extremely dangerous trail located in Spain. The trail is only one meter wide and is suspended nearly 100 meters above the Guadalhorce River. The trail has a reputation for being one of the most dangerous hikes in the world, with many sections of the trail in disrepair or missing entirely. The hike was closed to the public for many years due to safety concerns, but it was recently reopened with a number of safety improvements.
Angels Landing, USA
Angels Landing is a popular hiking trail in Zion National Park, located in the southwestern United States. The trail is known for its narrow ridgeline and steep drop-offs, which can be daunting for even experienced hikers. The final stretch of the trail requires hikers to climb a narrow spine with a drop of 1,500 feet on either side. While the trail is dangerous, it is also very popular, and hikers can expect crowds on the trail during peak season.
Aonach Eagach Ridge, Scotland
The Aonach Eagach Ridge is a ridge walk located in the Scottish Highlands. The trail is known for its narrow ridgeline, steep drop-offs, and unpredictable weather conditions. The hike requires a great deal of scrambling, with sections of the trail requiring hikers to climb over rocks and boulders. The trail is not recommended for inexperienced hikers, as the weather can change quickly and without warning.
Mount Hua, China
Mount Hua is another treacherous hiking trail located in China. The trail includes a number of narrow walkways bolted to the side of the mountain, and hikers must navigate steep drop-offs and sheer cliff faces. The hike is particularly dangerous during peak season when the trail is crowded with tourists, and hikers must wait in line for hours to cross some of the more challenging sections.
Drakensberg Traverse, South Africa
The Drakensberg Traverse is a challenging hike located in South Africa. The trail is known for its unpredictable weather, steep climbs, and high altitude. The trail can be particularly dangerous during the rainy season, as flash floods can occur without warning. The trail also includes a number of river crossings, which can be difficult and dangerous for inexperienced hikers.
The Maze, USA
The Maze is a remote and challenging hike located in the heart of Canyonlands National Park in southeastern Utah, USA. Known for its maze-like layout, narrow canyons, steep drop-offs, and difficult navigation, the hike requires a map and compass to navigate through the network of canyons and washes. The trail is not for the faint of heart, as hikers must be comfortable with heights and exposure and must carry all their water as there are no reliable sources on the trail. The Maze offers a unique and adventurous experience for experienced hikers looking for a challenge.
In conclusion, hiking can be a thrilling and rewarding experience, but it is essential to understand the risks involved and to prepare accordingly. These hikes mentioned above are not for the faint-hearted and require a high level of experience and skill. However, for those willing to take on the challenge, the breathtaking views and sense of accomplishment are worth it. It’s crucial to research the hike thoroughly, bring appropriate gear, and have a good understanding of your physical limits. By doing so, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable hike that you’ll never forget.