The 9 Most Dangerous Hiking Trails in the World

Today, we present to you the most dangerous hiking trails in the world; climb with us along rock walls or ascend a staircase to the sky - all we can say is, it will be thrilling!

They are narrow, often extremely steep, and can be truly treacherous - the most dangerous hiking trails in the world. You've probably heard about trails where people balance precariously along a gorge, often risking their lives when only rickety planks with holes in them are attached to a rock face. Many see it as the thrill of a lifetime to climb a mountain secured by just two carabiners. For others, it's pure folly. What do you think of these images from the most dangerous trails...?

Hua Shan in China

Caminito del Rey in Spain

Angels Landing, Zion National Park, USA

Six more spectacular hiking trails

It is the most dangerous hiking trail in the world: The Huashan is one of the five sacred mountains in Shaanxi province, China. It measures 2,100 meters and is not for the faint of heart! The path is mostly made up of wooden planks that are 30 to 50 cm wide, which not only look wobbly but also have holes in them. The only way to hang on is an iron chain driven into the rock. In some places, there are neither planks nor steps, only holes in the rock where you have to cram your foot in while pulling yourself up using the iron chain.

And what awaits the eager, risk-taking hiker at the end? Ta-daaa... A teahouse! Well, and of course, an incredible view, capped with the feeling of having accomplished something big. However, that feeling can't be enjoyed entirely carefree, as you must descend the same way you came up.

The Caminito del Rey in southern Spain is a four-kilometer climbing path that is at an elevation of about 100 meters. The trail runs along steep walls and through narrow gorges that are up to 200 meters deep. The Caminito del Rey is so dangerous that it was closed for 14 years! Between 1999 and 2000, five people died here - enough reason to close and renovate the trail. Weathering created huge holes along the footpath. The thin steel cable used for safety was sometimes completely missing, or where present, it inspired neither trust in hikers nor in experts. But even the railings that were supposed to protect hikers only did so intermittently against falling into the void.

However, in recent years, the most dangerous hiking trail in Europe has reopened! More than two million euros were invested in the restoration, making the path significantly safer now. 'Safer' is, of course, a tricky word when talking about one of the most dangerous hiking trails in the world - the amenities along the trail are now definitely better, but that changes nothing about the daunting route itself! At the end of the trail, the brave hiker is rewarded with a breathtaking view of steep sandstone cliffs and sparkling water below.

Angels Landing is the most climbed mountain in Zion and is considered one of the most impressive sights in Zion National Park, Utah, USA. Those who come here want pure adrenaline. You get that by hiking up to 1,700 meters to the summit to enjoy the feeling of boundless freedom. The views are simply fantastic.

You need to hike about 4.35 kilometers to the summit - always uphill, of course. A trek that can be quite taxing if you're not fit enough. It's best to start your climb early in the morning, as Angels Landing is no longer a hidden gem. Then it's a bit quieter, and you won't have to dodge other visitors as often, which can make the ascent and descent more dangerous due to the narrow hiking trails.

Unfortunately, the climb doesn't always end happily; since 2004, six adventurers have paid for the adrenaline kick with their lives. So always be vigilant on this dangerous hiking trail.

Read more about it in our article on Angels Landing

Kalalau Trail, Kauai, Hawaii: This 18-kilometer trail along the Na Pali coast is considered one of the most scenic yet dangerous in the world. Especially because it is partly very slippery and steep.

Drakensberg Grand Traverse, South Africa: Over a length of 250 kilometers, there are some steep, complicated, and slippery passages to overcome. Part of the pathway is not clearly marked.

Huayna Picchu, Peru: This hike is also called the 'Hike of Death' because it leads along extremely steep slopes. Steps and trails are often very slippery, but the views are strikingly spectacular.

Mist Trail & Half Dome, Yosemite National Park, USA: The 23-28 kilometer trail to the rounded formation is considered one of the most challenging short hikes in the USA due to its steep ascents and descents, containing numerous challenging sections.

Cascade Saddle Route, New Zealand: This route is a multi-day alpine crossing that should only be attempted by hikers with good navigation skills and extensive experience in rough terrain. Otherwise, the risk of an accident is relatively high.

Snowman Trek, Bhutan: Enchanted mountain worlds attract thousands of visitors to Bhutan each year. The Snowman Trek should only be climbed with a certified mountain guide. Camps are located at altitudes of up to 4,950 meters, so hikers must cope well with heights.

So, who among you would dare to step onto this spectacular stairway to heaven or perhaps one of the other two dangerous trails? Or do you prefer safe and idyllic paths for a relaxing hiking vacation?