From China to the USA, These Are the 6 Riskiest Hikes in the World
The riskiest treks in the world are only made for the more audacious and, above all, the more experienced. This list will either fill your adventurous soul or confirm that such dangerous hikes aren’t for you.
1: Cascade Saddle, New Zealand
Cascade Saddle is a hike over five miles long and takes just under three hours to complete. The New Zealand trail connects the West Matukituki Valley and the Dart Valley. Experts implore newbie hikers not to give Cascade Saddle a try, for adverse weather can result in life-threatening slips.
2: Mount Hua, China
Referred to as the “most precipitous mountain under heaven,” Huashan Mountain, called Mount Hua for short, is considered the most dangerous hike in the world. Hikers must shuffle along wood planks bolted to the mountain’s side. The trek is almost eight miles long and takes about five hours to complete.
The Mount Hua hike is presumed to have claimed around 100 lives. It’s no wonder, given that the wooden planks are suspended over 6,000 feet above the ground.
3: El Caminito Del Rey, Spain
Dubbed the “Walkway of Death” by avid hikers, El Caminito Del Rey is over a century old. The landmark sits 350 feet high and is about two miles long. Portions of the trail have collapsed, resulting in large, dangerous openings. An average of 1.3 million visitors visit the Spanish trail.
4: The Mürren via Ferrata, Switzerland
The Mürren via Ferrata is a steep mountain trail 2000 feet above ground in the Swiss Alps. Climbing it can take up to three hours and has proven dangerous, with experienced hikers losing their lives. Experts suggest bringing two ropes when climbing.
5: Huayna Picchu, Peru
The Huayna Picchu hike sits above Peru’s famous Machu Picchu ruins, making it over 500 years old. Unfortunately for some hikers, Huayna Picchu’s nickname has become a reality. The “Stairs of Death” are 8,835 feet above sea level and have taken lives. But stairs cascading down the mountain’s edge served its purpose back in the day; Incans used them to look out for any possible attacks.
6: Half Dome, California
Attracting over 500,000 hikers annually, Half Dome in Yosemite’s Mist Trail requires hikers to apply for a permit before embarking on the treacherous journey. The estimated 17-mile round trip has claimed the lives of over 60 people, making it one of the most dangerous treks in the world.
How To Prepare
Because of the extreme conditions that hikers may face on certain trails, comfortable clothing and footwear are non-negotiables. Furthermore, always hike with a buddy.
Don’t Be Skimpy
A map, compass, and first aid kit are essential items every hiker should pack no matter how easy or difficult the trail is. It’s also important to consider the climate where you’ll be trekking. In the case of cold weather, packing an emergency blanket could be life-saving while you wait for help.
Average Mileage
On average, a grownup hiker walks at a pace of about 2.5 miles per hour. Your hiking pace will ultimately depend on the terrain and your fitness, among other factors.
Famous Hikers
In 1948, hiker Earl V. Shaffer walked the entire Appalachian Trail in a single season, being dubbed “The Crazy One.” Emma Rowena Gatewood also became famous for being the first female solo thru-hiker on the Appalachian Trail. She was 67.
A Popular Sport
Data shows that in 2021, almost 60 million people in the United States went hiking, and over 10 million opted for backpacking, a subcategory of hiking.
American Hiking Society
Has the hiking bug bit you? Check out the American Hiking Society, an organization founded in 1976 to preserve hiking trails across the US, and plan your next trek.
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