Every year, countless hikers set out on trails that appear picture-perfect on social
media, unaware of the serious hazards that lie beneath its stunning exteriors. While these paths offer some of the most breathtaking views on Earth, they also harbor dangers that even experienced hikers sometimes overlook.
Understanding these hidden risks can mean the difference between an amazing adventure and a serious mishap.
Angel’s Landing, Zion National Park
This iconic Utah trail offers spectacular canyon views but includes a narrow spine
with 1,000-foot drops on both sides. The combination of steep cliffs, overcrowding on
narrow paths, and unpredictable wind gusts has led to multiple fatalities, even
among experienced hikers.
Huayna Picchu Trail, Peru
The ‘Stairs of Death’ leading to Machu Picchu’s neighboring peak become treacherously slippery during frequent rain showers. Ancient Inca steps, worn smooth by centuries of use, offer minimal grip while steep drops and crumbling edges demand constant attention.
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Mount Hua Shan, China
The infamous plank walk might grab headlines, but the entire trail presents serious
risks. Steep staircases carved into vertical cliffs become deadly hazards when
covered in ice or snow, while overcrowding creates dangerous bottlenecks along
narrow passages.
Kalalau Trail, Hawaii
This breathtaking coastal path along Kauai’s Na Pali Coast conceals multiple hazards. Flash floods can trap hikers in an instant, while seemingly solid ground can crumble without warning due to constant erosion from heavy rains.
Via Ferrata, Italy
These ‘iron paths’ in the Dolomites require specialized equipment and experience
that many casual hikers overlook. Weather changes rapidly at high altitudes, while
damaged or aging equipment can create unseen risks even on well-maintained
routes.
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Mount Pilatus, Switzerland
The Dragon’s Path offers stunning Alpine views but becomes extremely dangerous
in wet conditions. Loose rocks create hazards for hikers below, while sudden fog can
reduce visibility to near zero within minutes.
Cascade Saddle Route, New Zealand
This challenging alpine trek through Mount Aspiring National Park looks deceptively
manageable in good weather. Steep grass slopes become lethal when wet, while
weather conditions can deteriorate rapidly, trapping unprepared hikers.
Kokoda Track, Papua New Guinea
This historic trail through tropical rainforest conceals numerous hazards beyond its
obvious challenges. Venomous snakes hide in thick vegetation, while seemingly
minor cuts can quickly become infected in a humid environment.
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Aonach Eagach, Scotland
Britain’s narrowest ridge walk appears manageable in photos but requires serious
scrambling skills. Exposure to severe weather and difficult route-finding in fog have
led to numerous rescues, even of experienced mountaineers.
Pacaya Volcano Trail, Guatemala
This active volcano trail offers unique views but presents invisible dangers. Toxic
gases can accumulate in depressions without warning, while seemingly solid ground
may conceal scalding steam vents.
Mount Washington Trail, New Hampshire
Home to ‘the world’s worst weather,’ this deceptively accessible peak claims lives
regularly. Hurricane-force winds can appear suddenly, while hypothermia threatens
even in summer due to rapid weather changes.
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Striding Edge, England
This famous ridge in the Lake District becomes treacherous in high winds or wet
conditions. The narrow path offers minimal protection from exposure, while steep
drops on both sides leave no room for error.
The Maze, Utah
This remote section of Canyonlands National Park looks scenic but harbors serious
risks. Confusing topology makes navigation extremely challenging, while flash floods
can trap hikers miles from help.
Tiger Leaping Gorge, China
This dramatic canyon trail features stunning views but includes numerous hidden
hazards. Rockfalls occur without warning, while seasonal rains can trigger
dangerous landslides along the narrow path.
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Drakensberg Grand Traverse, South Africa
This spectacular mountain route requires careful navigation and weather monitoring.
Lightning strikes pose a serious threat, while sudden temperature drops can lead to
hypothermia, even in summer.
El Caminito del Rey, Spain
Though now restored with safety features, this cliff-hugging path still presents
significant risks. Strong winds can make narrow sections dangerous, while falling
rocks remain a constant hazard.
Mount Kinabalu, Malaysia
Southeast Asia’s highest peak offers amazing views but includes serious altitude-
related risks. Sudden storms create dangerous conditions on exposed granite slabs,
while altitude sickness affects many unprepared climbers.
Embark on Your Hiking Adventure with Caution
These trails remind us that nature’s beauty often comes with inherent risks that
demand respect and preparation. Before attempting any of these hikes, thoroughly
research current conditions, ensure you have appropriate gear and experience, and never hesitate to turn back if conditions exceed your comfort level – the mountain will
always be there for another day.
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