The Happiness Function

Hiking lovers, how much do you like to live life on the edge? Do you specifically search for adrenaline-filled trails or gravitate more towards safer adventures?

Whatever your preference, these 12 death-defying hikes are bound to blow you away. As you go through, decide whether there’s any you would brave.

1. Snowman Trek – Bhutan

This is “The ultimate traverse along Bhutan’s mountainous backbone,” one company claims. En route, you’ll pass 11 high passes as you head towards the remote Lunana region. It’s the most challenging trek in the country. Only a handful of hikers take it on each year.

2. Chadar Trek – India

The Chadar Trek is supposedly like no other in the Himalayan region. It includes traversing a frozen river, bracing for -30 degree nights and testing your resilience. There are many discomforts and dangers throughout this journey. Typically, however, the rewards outweigh the risks.

3. El Caminito Del Rey – Spain

Once known as the world’s deadliest hike, the Caminito Del Rey, or “King’s Little Pathway,” was reopened in 2015 after years of renovation. The hike consists of a narrow path built along the steep walls of a gorge, with sheer drops of up to 100 meters.

4. Mount Hua – China

Similar to the Plank Walk, the Mount Hua hike in China involves narrow paths along steep cliffs, with breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys. But don’t let the scenery fool you – this hike is not for the faint of heart.

5. Aonach Eagach Ridge – Scotland

The Aonach Eagach Ridge in Scotland is a challenging and technical hike that involves scrambling along narrow ridges with steep drops on either side.

6. Angel’s Landing – USA

Located in Utah’s Zion National Park, Angel’s Landing is a popular hike that involves a steep climb up narrow switchbacks, followed by a narrow ridge with sheer drops on either side. It’s not uncommon for hikers to slip and fall to their deaths on this treacherous trail.

7. Via Ferrata – Italy

Via Ferrata, or “Iron Way,” is a type of climbing that involves scaling steep cliffs using a system of metal cables, ladders, and bridges. While it can be a thrilling and rewarding experience, it’s also incredibly dangerous, with many fatalities reported each year.

8. The Maze – USA

Located in Utah’s Canyonlands National Park, The Maze is a remote and rugged area that’s difficult to access and even harder to navigate. Hikers must be experienced in desert survival and have excellent map-reading skills to attempt this hike.

9. Mount Everest Base Camp Trek – Nepal

While not technically a climb, the trek to Mount Everest Base Camp in Nepal is still one of the most dangerous hikes in the world. The altitude and extreme weather conditions can be deadly, and hikers must be prepared for the physical and mental challenges of the trek.

10. Kalalau Trail – Hawaii

Located on the island of Kauai, the Kalalau Trail is a challenging hike involving narrow paths along steep cliffs with stunning ocean views. However, the trail is also prone to flash floods, rock slides, and other hazards that make it incredibly dangerous.

11. Huayna Picchu – Peru

Located near Machu Picchu in Peru, Huayna Picchu is a steep and narrow hike that involves climbing up a series of stone steps and ladders to reach the summit. The trail is often crowded and slippery, making it dangerous for inexperienced hikers.

12. Mount Huashan Plank Walk – China

Located in China’s Shaanxi Province, Mount Huashan is considered one of the world’s most dangerous hikes. The Plank Walk is a narrow, rickety path built along the cliff face that leads to the mountain’s summit. One wrong step could lead to a fall.

20 Most Dangerous Countries in the World Tourists Should Avoid in 2023

Wanderlust may take you all over the world, but some countries are too dangerous to visit, and knowing which are best avoided in 2023 could keep you safe.

Let’s take a closer look at a list of the most dangerous countries in the world based on data from the World Population Review.

20 Most Dangerous Countries in the World Tourists Should Avoid in 2023

Risky Routes: These Are the 12 Most Dangerous Roads in the World

We are fortunate in the West that we get to drive on roads with good road markings, traffic circles, lights, and road signs. However, not all countries have features designed to keep people safe. Here are some of the most dangerous roads you would be best avoiding around the world.

Risky Routes: These Are the 12 Most Dangerous Roads in the World

Worth the Money: 15 of The Neatest Souvenirs From Around the World

You’ve probably been there before after you come home from a trip and someone asks, “What did you get me?” We all love a good souvenir. It instantly reminds us of the experiences we had while traveling. Here are some fun souvenir ideas from around the world.

Worth the Money: 15 of The Neatest Souvenirs From Around the World

Exactly What To Wear Hiking All Year Long (For Everyone)

To stay safe and comfortable while hiking, there are a few key things to consider when choosing hiking clothing. Depending on the time of year, climate, and elevation, hikers need to adjust clothing choices accordingly. Continue reading to find out exactly what to wear hiking all year long, with recommendations to suit everyone.

Exactly What To Wear Hiking All Year Long (For Everyone)

12 Countries You Should AVOID as a Solo Woman Traveling According to Travelers

Traveling the world is one of life’s biggest joys, but for women embarking on solo journeys, trips to new countries can be stressful and sometimes dangerous. Recently, women met in an online discussion to reveal the countries any solo female traveler should avoid due to a higher likelihood of encountering dangerous situations.

12 Countries You Should AVOID as a Solo Woman Traveling According to Travelers

Where indicated, some images courtesy of Depositphotos.com.