Only for the Brave: The Most Dangerous Hiking Trails in the USA

These hiking trails are not for the faint-hearted. Treacherous terrains and unpredictable weather make them a real challenge. Ready to take on the adventure?

1. Mount Washington, New Hampshire

pexels ken stringer 301046134 13527471

Image Credit: Pexels / Ken Stringer

Known for its extreme and rapidly changing weather, Mount Washington has claimed the lives of many hikers. It’s a true test of survival skills. In 2019, hikers experienced a sudden snowstorm that required multiple rescues by the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department. The mountain’s weather can shift from calm to life-threatening in minutes.

2. Angel’s Landing, Utah

shutterstock 2100178714

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Allen.G

This trail in Zion National Park is famous for its narrow paths and steep drops. A misstep could be fatal, so proceed with extreme caution. In March 2021, a 19-year-old hiker tragically fell to her death from Angel’s Landing. This incident underscored the trail’s danger, even for young and seemingly fit hikers.

3. The Maze, Utah

shutterstock 686981026 1

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Clint Clawdus

Located in Canyonlands National Park, The Maze is known for its confusing pathways and extreme remoteness. Getting lost here can be deadly. In 2006, Aron Ralston’s story became famous after he got trapped by a boulder in Bluejohn Canyon, part of The Maze. His incredible tale of survival, including amputating his own arm to escape, was later turned into the movie “127 Hours.”

4. Bright Angel Trail, Arizona

shutterstock 2431969757

Image Credit: Shutterstock / imageBROKER.com

A beautiful yet perilous trail in the Grand Canyon, it’s notorious for heatstroke and dehydration. Proper preparation is essential. In June 2015, a 36-year-old man died of heatstroke while hiking the Bright Angel Trail. The extreme heat, often exceeding 100°F, makes this trail particularly dangerous during the summer.

5. Kalalau Trail, Hawaii

shutterstock 184555649

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Pavel Tvrdy

his trail on the Na Pali Coast is stunning but treacherous, with slippery paths and dangerous cliffs. It’s a hike for the brave and experienced. In April 2019, a hiker slipped and fell to her death on the Kalalau Trail. The combination of tropical weather and narrow paths makes it one of the most hazardous hikes in Hawaii.

6. Half Dome, California

shutterstock 1704175525 1

Image Credit: Shutterstock / sixfournorth

Located in Yosemite National Park, the Half Dome hike involves steep ascents and cables. It’s not for the faint-hearted or unprepared. In 2018, a 29-year-old woman fell from the cables and lost her life, highlighting the extreme danger of this popular trail, especially during wet conditions when the granite becomes slippery.

7. Mount Rainier, Washington

shutterstock 1201428055 1

Image Credit: Shutterstock / The Old Major

 The unpredictable weather and challenging terrain make hiking Mount Rainier a risky endeavor. Only experienced hikers should attempt it. In June 2014, six climbers were presumed dead after a fall during a summit attempt. The combination of altitude, weather, and glacial conditions makes Mount Rainier one of the most dangerous climbs in the U.S.

8. Mist Trail, California

shutterstock 221898337 1

Image Credit: Shutterstock / topseller

This Yosemite trail is slippery and steep, with a significant number of falls each year. It’s a beautiful but dangerous hike. In 2011, three hikers were swept over Vernal Fall to their deaths after crossing a safety barrier. The Mist Trail’s beauty belies its potential hazards, particularly when water levels are high.

9. Huckleberry Trail, Montana

shutterstock 2093833546

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Martina Sliger

Remote and rugged, this trail in Glacier National Park is home to bears and challenging conditions. Bear spray and caution are a must. In 2016, a solo hiker was attacked by a grizzly bear but managed to survive by using bear spray effectively. Encounters with wildlife are a constant threat on this trail.

10. Capitol Peak, Colorado

shutterstock 2197717863

Image Credit: Shutterstock / PNW Park Ranger

Known for its knife-edge ridge, Capitol Peak is one of the most dangerous climbs in Colorado. Experienced climbers only. In 2017, five climbers died attempting to summit Capitol Peak, making it one of Colorado’s deadliest peaks. The knife-edge ridge requires precision and nerves of steel, with fatal consequences for any mistake.

These real-life stories not only highlight the inherent dangers of these trails but also underscore the importance of preparation, caution, and respect for nature. Happy (and safe) hiking!

Ghost Roads of America: 12 Haunted Highways with Tales of Terror and Creepy Rest Stops

shutterstock 144997492 1 1

Image Credit: Shutterstock / donvictorio

Discover chilling tales from America’s spookiest roads, complete with ghostly figures and eerie phenomena, in this thrilling guide to paranormal hotspots—perfect for adventure seekers and ghost enthusiasts. Ready for a supernatural road trip? Ghost Roads of America: 12 Haunted Highways with Tales of Terror and Creepy Rest
Stops

18 High-Crime Cities in the US You Should Avoid

pexels adrian newell 14177239 1

Image Credit: Pexels / Adrian Newell

American cities dazzle with culture and history, yet rising crime rates demand cautious exploration. This guide ensures you stay informed and safe. 18 High-Crime Cities in the US You Should Avoid

22 of America’s Most Charming Towns

shutterstock 284980904 1

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Nejdet Duzen

Hit the road and discover America’s coziest towns, real-life versions of those quaint settings from your favorite novels. Explore charming streets where every storefront tells a story and locals greet everyone with a hello. Ready to dive into the charm? 22 of America’s Most Charming Towns

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Rawpixel.com.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

Tips for Trip Success

Book Your Flight
Find an inexpensive flight by using Kayak, a favorite of ours because it regularly returns less expensive flight options from a variety of airlines.

Book Your Hotel or Special Accommodation
We are big fans of Booking.com. We like their review system and photos. If we want to see more reviews and additional booking options, we go to Expedia.

You Need Travel Insurance!
Good travel insurance means having total peace of mind. Travel insurance protects you when your medical insurance often will not and better than what you get from your credit card. It will provide comprehensive coverage should you need medical treatment or return to the United States, compensation for trip interruption, baggage loss, and other situations.Find the Perfect Insurance Plan for Your Tripimage 9133145 14418597

PassingThru is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

To view PassingThru’s privacy policy, click here.

5f580fbf94bd9d3db4881659a83d5b15?s=150&d=mp&r=g
+ posts