The 10 Hardest Hikes in the World (In No Particular Order)
For all the adventure seekers, experienced hikers, climbers, and anyone who's ever admired that iconic picture of someone on the edge of a cliff, you must wonder, how did they even get there? Look no further for the answer! Whether it's must-do challenge trails or the most remote and difficult paths, these hikes will push your physical limits and mental fortitude.
In no particular order, these are ten of the most difficult hiking trails in the world. Before you embark on these adventures, make sure you possess the necessary expertise and fitness level - they are not for the faint of hearts.
1. Snowman Trek, Bhutan
The Snowman Trek in Bhutan is considered to be one of the most challenging treks in the world at 217 miles (350 km). The journey begins in the district of Paro and takes approximately 25-30 days to complete.
Throughout the expedition, hikers will pass through lush forests and cross nine high-altitude passes along the way - with the highest point reaching an altitude of 16,100 feet (4,908 meters).
As one makes their way down the rugged terrain and remote trails, once you reach the end, you will be rewarded with stunning views of the Himalayas, unspoiled wilderness, and an opportunity to immerse yourself in Bhutan’s culture.
The hike is challenging because of the high altitude and unpredictable weather. The best time to complete this difficult trek is in October.
2. Kalalau Trail, Kauai, Hawaii
The Kalalau Trail is one of the most popular hiking trails in Kauai, Hawaii. It sits high above the crashing waves on cliffs that tower 4,000 feet (1.2km) above the ocean. The trail is graded but almost never level as it winds the hiker through five lush valleys to the tops of towering cliffs. It is the only way to access this part of the breathtaking Na Pali Coast and you will have the opportunity to venture through jungles, hairpin switchbacks, and pass thundering waterfalls.
Common occurrences in the area include flash floods, falling rocks, thick mud, and lots of rain. The trail can become slippery and must be walked with caution as one misstep is enough to send a person plunging into the ocean thousands of feet below. Extreme inclines and declines, crumbling rocks, and narrow passageways make this trek only for the adrenaline lover. Plenty of water will be needed as the sun is strong and there are no facilities along the way.
3. Ciudad Perdida, Columbia
This is a challenging but rewarding trek that takes you to Ciudad Perdida, also known as the Lost City, an archeological site that dates back over 1,000 years. The trail takes you deep in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta Mountain range.
The trek covers approximately 29 miles (46km), and you can expect it to take around 4-6 days to complete. The trail has steep inclines, muddy paths, and river crossings. During the rainy season, these paths are particularly tricky.
In addition, the climate is hot and humid. Prepare for potential insect bites and wildlife encounters. If you are terrified of spiders and snakes, this jungle trek may not be for you!
4. Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek, Nepal
This trek begins in Beni, a small town in the Kali Gandaki valley. It then takes a grueling 21 days on average to complete with challenging and technical terrain. Distance varies depending on your itinerary but is generally from 87-112 miles (140-180km).
The trails path the Myagdi Khola river once you depart Beni. It climbs up to the Italian Base Camp, where hikers can enjoy stunning views of Dhaulagiri Mountain, one of the worlds 8000ers. Afterwards, the trail crosses the French Pass (17,585 feet/5,360 meters) and the Dhampus Pass (17,060 feet/5,200 meters). You will also have the amazing opportunity to visit the hidden valley, a high-altitude valley that was only recently opened to trekkers in 1990.
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek requires a high level of fitness and experience. The trail is not well-traveled, and hikers need to be self-sufficient and carry all their supplies and gear.
5. Devil’s Path, New York, USA
At only 25 miles long, the Devil’s Path takes an average of 2-3 days to complete (though exceptionally fit hikers have completed the hike in a single day). The hiking trail is in the Catskill Mountains of New York State, USA.
There are many steep ascents and descents to up to six different peaks. In total, you will be climbing up and down 8,000 feet (2438 meters). The trek is much more difficult than other hikes near New York. It requires a solid fitness level and experience.
The reward at the end after some serious tough trekking, though? Panoramic views of the surrounding Catskill mountains and Hudson River Valley.
6. Pyrenees Haute Route, France
The Pyrenees Haute Route, also known as the Haute Randonnée Pyrénéenne (HRP) is a 497 mile (800km) epic trail. It follows the Pyrenees Mountains that form the border between France and Spain.
This hike takes trekkers all the way across France from Hendaye, to Banyuls-sur-Mer. This is from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean Ocean with many parts crossing over the Spanish border. You also have the option of doing it in the opposite direction.
To complete the entire trail, it can take anywhere between 45-50 days. As this is an extended period for many folks, many opt to do short sections of the trails (4-6 days) at a time.
The trail has some intense mountain passes, so making sure that you are set up for success both mentally and physically is imperative. There are huts that are set up along the way for hikers and wild camping is allowed in most places. The trekking season for the HRP is a short one – usually just July and August.
7. GR20, France
The GR20 is a long-distance trail that traverses the interior, mountainous region of Corsica. This hike is said to be one of the best hikes in France at 112-miles (180km). It is also one of the toughest long-distance hiking trails in the world. Completing the trail takes about 15 days.
The trail includes mountain passes and steep ridges. Some of the passes are more than 6,500 feet (2,000m) high. The total elevation gain is 12,000 feet (3,600m) – the equivalent of climbing Mount Everest.
The trail is highly technical and includes rocky sections where some scrambling is required. The weather can also be unpredictable, such as getting caught in a thunderstorm. Facilities are also very limited, so expect to carry almost everything in your backpack.
8. Kokoda Trail, Papua New Guinea
The Kokoda Trail is approximately 60 miles (96 km). The trail is historically significant, as it was the site of the Kokoda Track Campaign, a series of World War II battles between Japanese and Australian forces. The route starts at Owers’ Corner, near Port Moresby, and ends in Kokoda Village.
The trail is not well-maintained and can be steep, muddy, and slippery. It passes through dense jungles and over mountains. Hikers should be experienced and in good physical condition.
Many hikers choose to go with a local guide or join a guided trekking tour to ensure safety and navigate the trail’s challenging terrain.
9. Hardergrat Trail, Switzerland
Known as the “Queen of the Alpin Ridges,” the Hardergrat trail is a challenging and spectacular hike in Switzerland. The trail runs along the Hardergrat Ridge, which separates Lake Brienz and Lake Thun and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
The trails begins in Interlaken and follows the ridge for about 16.8 miles (27km) before ending in Brienz. The narrow ridges, steep drop-offs, and exposed sections make it a difficult and technical hike.
In total, this route takes about 10-12 hours to complete. Hikers need to have good mountaineering skills, carry a helmet, and bring along climbing equipment.
10. The Chadar Trek, India
The Chadar Trek is a difficult winter trek in the Zanskar region of Ladakh. Known as one of the best treks in India, the trek is 40 miles (65km) and takes 6 to 9 days to complete. One will be at an altitude of over 11,000 feet (3,300m) the entire time.
What is unique about the Chadar Trek is the fact that you will be walking on the frozen Zanskar River. Other highlights include seeing frozen waterfalls and ice caves along the way. You also can interact with locals in the region, which is quite remote.
