Outdoor Blog

10 Scariest and Most Dangerous Hiking Trails on Earth

Published

3 years ago

April 18, 2021

A dangerous trail with a sharp cliff on both sides

One reason for hiking’s long-lasting and widespread popularity is the ability to choose whatever level of danger and challenge you want. So while some might prefer lazy day hikes, for others the best hiking trails are the ones full of switchbacks, drop-offs, and dead ends.

The trails covered below offer some of the scariest challenges, and most dangerous conditions available to hikers today. While they’re not for the faint of heart, these trails also offer some of the most stunning views and interesting ecosystems you’ll ever encounter.

After all, the difficulty of reaching these places helps keep them undisturbed in their natural beauty. So, whether you’re looking for the best hikes in Yosemite National Park, or want to make a pilgrimage to some of the scariest destinations on Earth, these trails will not disappoint!

1. Huayna Picchu, Peru

There’s a reason Huayna Picchu is first on our list of scariest and most dangerous hikes. Climbing 1,000 feet in less than a mile, the “Hike of Death” trail extends from Peru’s famous Machu Picchu ruins at the end of the Inca Trail. The Inca Trail can be challenging in itself, but this extension up Huayna Picchu mountain is one of the riskiest sections.

Providing some of the most stunning views of Machu Picchu itself, the mountain can be summitted safely, but many of the tourists who trek up these ancient Inca steps each year aren’t properly prepared. The problem is, this isn’t one of the best-maintained trails. Parts of the granite steps are rotting or crumbling and, in some places, the only thing to hold onto is a set of old steel cables.

Being high in the Andes, the mountain is often covered in clouds and mist and it’s recommended to only attempt the climb under sunny and clear conditions. Many also underestimate the steepness of the trail, especially coming down. So, take your time, choose your path carefully, and don’t rush past other climbers. Otherwise, you might end up at the bottom much more quickly than planned!

A line of tourists making their way to the summit of Mount Huasan, China.

2. Mount Huashan, China

Our next trail on the list is also quite ancient. Trekking to the top of Mount Huashan is a centuries-old tradition. For those who make it to the top, there are Buddhist and Daoist temples that offer refreshments, including what some say is the best cup of tea in the world. Although it seems likely any tea at all would taste amazing after a journey like this one!

Visitors access the temples by climbing the “Heavenly Stairs” carved into the northern peak, or via a trail made of wooden planks bolted into the side of the south mountain. At some points, even the wooden planks disappear and climbers are left to make do with small divots in the rock.

It’s a well-known destination for thrill-seekers and so has become a bit crowded over the years. Still, it’s one of the scariest hiking trails out there, and it’s worth the trip to see the view from the top. Many recommend staying to see the sunrise from the summit even though the hike only takes about six hours round trip.

3. The Maze, Utah, USA

The western US is home to a few of the most dangerous hikes on Earth. Utah, in particular, has some truly amazing treks and makes our list twice. For her first entry, Utah offers The Maze in Canyonlands National Park. Aptly-named, The Maze is a series of gullies, rock formations, and ridges that form a natural labyrinth of red rock.

The formations are both strange and beautiful, but National Park rangers warn against traveling to the area without a detailed itinerary, good communication, and several backup plans. The biggest dangers that hikers might face in the Maze include sudden weather changes, often leading to flash floods, rockfalls, and dead-ends.

Thankfully, there have been no accidental deaths in the area, but this is in part because very few hikers actually make it out to this remote and dangerous part of Canyonlands National Park. If you’re looking for isolation, this trail is an effective way to get it.

4. Drakensberg Traverse, South Africa

Drakensberg Traverse is a 40-mile trail across the Natal National Park, the Drakensberg Traverse requires a longer stay than some of the other hiking trails on this list. There’s no law, of course, that you have to do the whole trek, but it would be a shame to go through the challenge of starting this journey if you don’t intend to finish it.

So, how exactly doe the trail start? With two rather old chain ladders which take trekkers up the ridge and start them on the mismatch of herding trails and animal tracks which make up most of the Traverse. The other reason to go the full 40 miles if you’re going to hike the Drakensberg Traverse is that there are amazing views along just about every inch of the trail.

One of the most famous is the Amphitheater, a rock face with three times as much surface as El Capitan in Yosemite National Park. While the views are well worth it, they exist because the Drakensberg Traverse is one of the most exposed sections of alpine territory on Earth. So keep a close eye on the weather and be ready to shelter in place if it changes quickly.

5. Kalalau Trail, Hawaii, USA

Located in the northwest of Kauai Island, Hawaii’s Na Pali Coast is a well-loved destination for hikers of all abilities. The Kalalau Trail in particular offers a challenging hike through the natural beauty of Hawaii’s jungles, as well as amazing views of natural features like waterfalls and volcanic slopes.

In addition to the gorgeous views and landscapes, the biodiversity in this region makes it a great hiking trip for birdwatchers and amateur naturalists in particular. The wildlife is part of the risk as well, however, with plenty of large, biting, and even venomous insects to look out for.

Rockfalls and flash floods are also of concern to trekkers on the Kalalau Trail. But most of the related casualties actually happen in the water along the trail. The beautiful beaches along the trail and at the end may be a part of the attraction for hikers, but they present some challenges of their own.

If you’re going to swim as you go, pay attention to ocean currents and the depth of the water, and always make sure a buddy knows where you are. Here too, wildlife is a defining feature and can be a big risk for those who go into the water. Tiger sharks are the largest threat, but yellow-bellied sea snakes can also deliver a venomous punch.

6. Cascade Saddle, New Zealand

This trail has become very popular after the success of the Lord of the Rings movies, which feature New Zealand’s Mt. Aspiring National Park. Fans might recognize the Cascade Saddle area as the setting for Isengard in the films. While you won’t face anything as scary as orcs or goblins, the trail presents some real-life challenges to visitors as well, such as bad weather and rockfalls.

An 11-mile trail through alpine meadows and beech forests, the trail is especially dangerous in foul weather, and many of the reported casualties are the result of missteps going down the slippery rock faces. It’s a beautiful journey though, and officials may be altering the trail soon to reduce the number of slippery sections you have to cross.

7. El Caminito del Rey, Spain

Originally constructed as an access point for a local hydroelectric plant, El Caminito del Rey consists of a two-mile concrete and steel path through El Chorro Gorge. El Chorro Gorge, in the Málaga region of Spain, extends for over a hundred feet below the trail, which hangs from the cliff edge above.

While El Caminito is officially closed to the public, adventure seekers make pilgrimages to the destination still. This has only made the trek even more dangerous, though, as many sections of the trail have crumbled and climbers have to navigate over as much as 10 feet of missing trail in some sections. With a 100-foot drop below you, that’s no small feat!

8. Mist Trail, California, USA

The Half Dome is one of Yosemite National Park’s most popular and recognizable features. You might not know that it can also be one of the most dangerous! There are other pathways up the Half Dome, but Mist tRail remains the most popular.

This is in part because of the stunning views you get along the way. In particular, you’ll want to get a good look at the waterfalls, including Vernal Falls and Nevada Falls, which are especially loud and turbulent in the spring. The last 400 feet are the most dangerous.

While steel cables are available to help you up the final ascent, rainfall can make this section deadly rather quickly. If you’re starting to see a pattern, you’re right: bad weather is one of the biggest dangers for hikers at all skill levels and this holds true for the Half Dome’s Mist Trail as well. Almost all the recent accidents recorded on this trail happened when the rock was wet.

Ridge walk in beautiful scenery in Zion National Park along the Angel's Landing trail

A hiker taking on the ridge walk on Angel’s Landing trail in Utah.

9. Angel’s Landing, Utah, USA

Returning to Utah once again, Angel’s Landing in Zion National Park is the last of the US hiking trails we’ll cover on this list. Not to be confused with Bright Angel Trail in Arizona’s Grand Canyon National Park, the canyons in Zion National Park are grand enough in their own right.

With steep drop-offs and many switchbacks, this can a tough trail to tackle but, in the end, you’ll find unbeatable views of the 270-million-year-old rock layers of Zion Canyon. Heat can be an issue on this trail, so hikers should get an early start, especially if you’re visiting in the summer. It takes about five hours to complete the hike round trip.

You’ll start at the Grotto Trailhead and traverse such interestingly named places as “Refrigerator Canyon” and “Walter’s Wiggles.” The trail ends at the Angel’s Landing Sumit and, thankfully, a few hardy trees cling to the peak, providing much-needed shade at the end of the trek.

The trail itself is a lot sturdier than some of the ones on this list, but the continuous switchbacks and steep drops make it a mentally challenging undertaking for even the most physically fit hikers. That’s why it beats the Bright Angel Trail which, while still pretty scary, is a bit more straightforward of a trek.

10.Via Ferrata, Italy & Austria

The Via Ferrata, or Iron Way, has been a destination for adventure seekers for centuries. Located throughout the Alps, this series of protected mountain pathways is the namesake of the “Via Ferrata Set.” Now an important piece of any climber’s kit, the via ferrata set is a system of lanyards and carabiners used to attach yourself to the cables for which this route is named.

These pathways were first developed during the 15th century but were used most extensively during World War I as routes for specialized troop movements. Now, these routes are outfitted with much more modern safety features, including the steel cables that climbers attach to using a via ferrata set, as well as guide rails, platforms, and more. Today there are similar routes all over the world, but it’s worth seeing the first to take the name and soaking in some of the history of the Italian and Austrian Alps as well.

Preparing for A Dangerous Hike

As you might infer from the last destination we looked at, getting the right gear is an important part of preparing for any hike, and especially those in more dangerous locations. For treks that involve climbing, you should make sure your harness is well-fitted and that you have backups of anything that could break or be lost. You’ll also want to keep a well-stocked first aid kit on hand as many of these destinations are quite remote.

Beyond gear, preparing for a trip to one of the most dangerous hiking trails on Earth should include a good amount of research and planning. What natural features are nearby? What weather patterns should you look out for? Pay special attention to potential weather issues as even a relatively safe trail can become treacherous in the rain.

One good rule of thumb is to assume that everything that can go wrong will. So even if the weather is supposed to be nice, make sure you have warm and protective layers on hand. This is especially true in mountainous or coastal regions (like most of the trails on this ist) where the weather can change rapidly and without warning.

When going on any kind of hike, you should also make sure that someone knows where you’re going, what time you’re starting, and when to expect you back. This way, if something terrible happens, help will reach you quickly. You’d be surprised how many hiking fatalities are the result of someone getting stuck without help because no one knew they were missing until too late.

Final Verdict

It can be fun to challenge yourself and seek out dangerous hiking trails like the ones on this list. But remember, any hiking trail can turn deadly if you’re not well-prepared. In fact, many of these dangerous climbs have much lower fatality statistics than more “basic” trails. That’s because most of the people who make it out to these treks are well prepared for what lays ahead.

Just like any trail can be dangerous, any trail can be tackled with relative safety as well, even the ones on this list. The trick is to have a detailed plan for any backpacking or hiking trip. Have an idea of what might go wrong and be prepared to respond to challenges like bad weather, accidental falls, and wrong turns.

Bonus tip: Check out this video on how to use a via ferrata set!

Outdoor Blog

BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024

Published

1 month ago

June 26, 2024

Jonas Muthoni

BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.

At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.

The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.

In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.

BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.

For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.

Outdoor Blog

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Sam Brooks

The wilderness beckons with the promise of adventure, but any seasoned hunter knows that what you wear can make or break your experience. Gone are the days when outdoor apparel was purely utilitarian. Today, fashion and functionality blend seamlessly to create gear that’s not only practical but also stylish. From the latest camouflage patterns to weather-resistant fabrics, let’s explore the evolution of outdoor apparel and how it’s revolutionizing the way we approach the great outdoors.

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Camouflage has come a long way from the simple green and brown patterns of yesteryear. Modern camouflage designs are now a blend of advanced science and cutting-edge style. These patterns aren’t just about blending into the background; they’re about creating an optical illusion that makes the wearer nearly invisible to wildlife.

Contemporary camo gear incorporates a variety of colors and textures to match different environments, from dense forests to arid deserts. This evolution in design is as much about aesthetics as it is about effectiveness, allowing hunters to move through their chosen terrain with confidence and stealth.

The shift towards more sophisticated camouflage patterns also reflects a broader trend in outdoor apparel: the desire for gear that looks good and performs even better. Hunters today want apparel that makes a statement while still providing the ultimate in concealment. Whether it’s a jacket with a sleek, modern design or pants that offer the perfect balance of comfort and camouflage, today’s outdoor apparel combines fashion and function like never before.

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Layering is a critical concept in outdoor apparel, offering both practical and aesthetic benefits. Modern layering systems are designed to regulate body temperature and provide protection from the elements. However, they also offer a chance to showcase personal style. Successful layering starts with choosing pieces that work well together both functionally and visually.

Base layers, for instance, have evolved from simple thermal wear to stylish garments that can be worn on their own or as part of a layered ensemble. These pieces are often made from advanced fabrics that provide warmth without bulk, ensuring that hunters can stay comfortable and mobile. Mid-layers add another dimension of style and functionality, offering insulation while allowing for breathability. Softshell jackets and vests come in many different colors and designs, making it easy to find pieces that suit individual tastes.

Layering can also help you catch different kinds of animals. For instance, when you’re looking for turkey hunting tips, it’s important to look at the best kinds of layering to stay incognito and catch the best birds. Choosing the right layers can make a significant difference in staying comfortable and concealed during long hours in the field.

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

Footwear is another area where outdoor apparel has seen significant evolution. In the past, hunting boots were purely functional, but, today, they still offer these essential qualities but have also become a fashion statement. Modern hunting boots come in a variety of styles, from traditional leather to contemporary synthetic materials, and are available in a range of colors and designs.

The advancements in footwear technology have been remarkable. Today’s hunting boots are designed to be lightweight yet durable, with features like waterproof membranes, breathable linings, and advanced traction systems. These innovations ensure that hunters can move comfortably and safely through any environment. But it’s not just about functionality; the aesthetic appeal of modern hunting boots is undeniable. Many boots are designed with sleek, stylish lines that make them suitable for wearing both in the field and in more casual settings.

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

When it comes to hunting, high-performance gear is a game-changer. This is the section where outdoor apparel truly shines, combining cutting-edge technology with sleek design to create products that offer unmatched performance. Performance hunting gear includes everything from moisture-wicking base layers to high-tech outerwear designed to withstand the harshest conditions.

Today’s high-performance apparel utilizes advanced materials that are both lightweight and durable. Fabrics like Gore-Tex and other proprietary blends offer superior protection against wind and water while maintaining breathability. These materials help regulate body temperature, keeping hunters comfortable in a wide range of environments. In addition to these practical benefits, high-performance gear often features ergonomic designs that allow for a full range of motion, ensuring that hunters can move freely and easily.

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter

Sustainability has become an increasingly important consideration in the world of outdoor apparel. Hunters who are passionate about preserving the wilderness they love to explore are now seeking out eco-friendly clothing options that minimize environmental impact. Eco-friendly outdoor apparel is made from sustainable materials such as recycled polyester, organic cotton, and biodegradable fibers. These materials offer the same performance benefits as traditional fabrics but with a lower environmental footprint.

Outdoor Blog

The Role of Camouflage in Wildlife Photography and Hunting

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Caleb Cole

Camouflage plays a vital role in the worlds of wildlife photography and hunting, serving as an indispensable tool for enthusiasts and professionals alike. It’s not just about blending into the environment; it’s about becoming a part of it. Camouflage allows for closer interactions with wildlife, ensuring more successful hunts and breathtaking photographs. Here, we explore the key roles camouflage plays in these outdoor activities.

Blending In: The Art of Disappearing

One of the primary roles of camouflage is to help the wearer blend seamlessly into their surroundings. This art of disappearing is crucial whether you’re capturing a stunning image of a deer at dawn or patiently waiting for your prey during hunting season. In wildlife photography, the goal is to get as close as possible without disturbing the natural behavior of the animals. Camouflage clothing, face paint, and even equipment coverings can make the difference between a once-in-a-lifetime shot and a missed opportunity.

For hunters, blending into the environment increases the chances of a successful hunt. Animals have keen senses, and the slightest hint of an unnatural shape or color can send them running. Camouflage gear allows hunters to become virtually invisible. This skill of blending in isn’t just about wearing the right colors; it’s about understanding the terrain, the light, and how to move with stealth.

Reducing the Human Scent and Sound

Another critical aspect of camouflage in both photography and hunting is the reduction of human scent and sound. Animals naturally use their sense of smell and hearing to detect potential threats. Successful hunting trips often hinge on the ability to minimize human presence in these sensory fields. Specially designed camouflage clothing can help mask human odors, making it harder for animals to pick up on your scent.

Similarly, wildlife photographers need to consider their scent and sound output. Even the most visually inconspicuous photographer can ruin a perfect shot if their scent or a stray noise alerts the animals. Using scent-masking sprays and moving with extreme caution are part of the camouflage strategy, ensuring that photographers can get closer to their subjects without causing alarm.

Enhancing Patience and Stealth

Patience and stealth are virtues that every hunter and wildlife photographer must possess, and camouflage gear enhances these qualities. When you’re properly camouflaged, you can afford to be more patient, knowing that you are less likely to be detected. This confidence allows for longer waiting periods in prime locations, increasing the chances of capturing that perfect shot or making a successful kill.

For wildlife photographers, the need for patience is paramount. Animals won’t always show up when you want them to, and sudden movements can ruin hours of careful preparation. Camouflage helps in remaining undetected, allowing photographers to wait silently and still for the right moment. Hunters also benefit from this patience, as it enables them to wait for the ideal shot without rushing and potentially missing their target.

Specialized Camouflage for Different Hunts: Moose Hunting

Different types of hunting require specialized camouflage, and moose hunting is a prime example. Moose are large, elusive animals often found in dense forests and swampy areas. Successful moose hunters understand the need for specific camouflage patterns that mimic the unique environments where moose thrive. Moose hunting clothes are designed to blend into the dark, shadowy forests and marshes, making hunters virtually invisible to these keen-eyed creatures.

During moose hunting season, the right camouflage can make or break your experience. Moose have excellent vision and can easily detect unnatural movements or colors. By wearing appropriate camouflage, hunters can move quietly and position themselves for a clear shot without spooking their quarry.

The specialized gear often includes clothing that covers the entire body, including gloves and face masks, ensuring that no part of the hunter stands out against the natural backdrop. This thorough approach is essential in moose hunting, where patience and precision are key.

Capturing Authentic Wildlife Behavior

Wildlife photography isn’t just about taking beautiful pictures; it’s about capturing authentic wildlife behavior. Camouflage allows photographers to become invisible observers, documenting animals in their natural state without any human interference. This is particularly important for conservation efforts, as understanding genuine animal behavior can inform better strategies for protecting various species and their habitats.

Photographers who use camouflage can get closer to their subjects, often capturing moments that would be impossible to see from a distance. This proximity results in more intimate and detailed shots, showcasing the animals’ daily activities, interactions, and environments.

The authenticity of these images can inspire greater appreciation and respect for wildlife, encouraging more people to support conservation initiatives. By blending into the environment, photographers can witness and document behaviors that might otherwise go unnoticed, providing invaluable insights into the natural world.

outdoorcommand.com (Post 2)

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter