Kalalau Trail, Hawaii

Why it’s Terrifying

There are many risks involved in hiking Kalalau Trail. Three stream crossings here are known to rise unexpectedly and rapidly. There are also very narrow and long sections that are difficult to maneuver. One wrong step can be fatal. Other hazards include wild animals, extreme rainfall, dangerous plants, falling rocks, and no cell phone signal or emergency services along the way. People have died here from drowning and falling, and others have been stranded, in need of rescue.

Why you should go anyway

Kalalau Trail is one of the most beautiful trails not only in Hawaii, but in the world. With breathtaking views and parts of nature that you can only find in this area, you should leave your fears home and come visit. Educate yourself about the trail and make sure you are responsible and prepared. The risk is well worth the reward.

Half Dome, California

Why it’s Terrifying

A site that was once considered completely ‘inaccessible’ is now open to climbers and hikers willing to take it on. Because of its ruggedness, it is very steep and difficult to pass. Although not common, people have fallen to their deaths, or barely survived. Rock slides, bears, altitude sickness, and unpredictable weather are other factors that make this trail very risky.

Why you should go anyway

This trail might be scary, but it is one of the best Yosemite.There is a fun (but dangerous) part where hikers climb cables, and those who enjoy a good adrenaline rush will like it. Because of its height above sea level, you can get an amazing panoramic views of the valley and the High Sierra below. If you’re experienced and aware of the dangers, definitely add this place to your backcountry-bucket list.

The Maroon Bells, Colorado

Why it’s Terrifying

A trail that is also known as ‘The Deadly Bells’ usually doesn’t need much explaining. The nickname was coined after the unpredictableness of this place that can kill someone in a blink of an eye, potentially causing serious injury or death, which it has before. Because of how the rocks were formed here, loose rocks are very common, which can ultimately cause cracks and downsloping at any moment-a huge danger.

Why you should go anyway

These two mountain peaks are great places to not only take a photo of from the ground up, but also the perfect peaks to take in views from the summit, down. The mountains overlook the Maroon Bells Lake, which was left by a glacier and is absolutely stunning. It’s a great place to go on an overnight backpacking trip, as long as you take the proper precautions.

Longs Peaks, Colorado

Why it’s Terrifying

The Keyhole Route here is notorious for her quick and treacherous ascent that strikes hikers unexpectedly, and through the years, has caused numerous deaths. The conditions on the trails can be very difficult to face when weather is bad, and often, people get stuck. Because of the amount of intrigued hikers who come here, the trail can also get very crowded and falling rocks can be another risk for injury.

Why you should go anyway

If hiking the highest mountain peak in Rocky Mountain National Park doesn’t sound exciting enough, then you’ll want to come here for the views of Mills Glacier and the narrow, rugged paths that wrap around the mountain. It’s a Class 3 scramble for ‘fourteeners’-hikers of the 14,000 foot mountains in Colorado that backpackers just can’t wait to get their ‘hands’ on. Know the dangers and be on your way to the top.

The Maze, Utah

Why it’s Terrifying

No other area of the Canyonlands is more unreachable than The Maze, which means you’re on your own when you come here. If you like the idea of being in some kind of twisted, imaginative-reality, then The Maze is the place for you. With the closest help station being hours away by car, extreme heat, falling rocks, potential flash floods and dead ends that can leave visitors stranded for much longer than intended.

Why you should go anyway

What’s cooler than being inside your favorite video game? After all, that’s pretty much what The Maze is. If backpackers can be self-sufficient in the middle of nowhere, The Maze is guaranteed to provide them with an unforgettable experience. If you want to ‘find yourself’, this is the best place to get lost doing it, among beautiful, orange rock formations, underneath starry, desert skies.

Mt. Washington, New Hampshire

Why it’s Terrifying

The Tuckerman Ravine Trail provides amazing views, but they comes at a price. During the winter, hikers face cold temperatures that can lead to hypothermia, icy rocks that can cause a fall, fatal snowstorms, ski accidents, and also avalanches. There have also been terrible, sudden storms here. Over 100 deaths have occurred at Mt. Washington, and because the dangers are not immediately recognizable, many backpackers do not fully prepare themselves for the hike.

Why you should go anyway

Mt. Washington has a rich, cultural history that has attracted visitors of all kinds for centuries. The mountain has an observatory at the top that plays a significant role in researching climate and weather patterns. Views from the summit are one of a kind, as this mountain is the highest in the Northeastern region of the U.S. If you don’t mind any type of surprises, then a visit here is worthwhile.