5 Extreme Hikes For The Serious Outdoor Lover

@jayashreeparihar

If you consider yourself an outdoorsy person, hiking is likely up your alley. You know all the best trails in your area. It’s time to take your love of nature one step further with these extreme hikes. They’ll not only give you a great workout, but they’ll push your limits in the best way. But beware: they’re a bit dangerous. If you’ve got what it takes, try one of them out.

1. Kokoda Track — Papua New Guinea

Rich in history that dates all the way back to a Japanese-Australian battle during WWII, Kokoda Track is the perfect place to hike if you have a few days on your hands. The hike takes about four to ten days to complete depending on your speed, and it’s particularly dangerous because it’s remote and mountainous. Surrounded by the Owen Stanley Range, the hike is secluded and filled with poisonous plants and insects. Watch your back.

2. Devil’s Path – New York, United States

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Devil’s Path is arguably the toughest hiking path in the northeastern United States. Peaking at 14,000 feet above sea level with 5 peaks reaching over 3,500 feet, the trail boasts serious elevation. On top of that, the route is generally far from water sources, and includes hands-and-feet climbing on dangerous crags and cliffs. If you think you have what it takes, try the hike.

3. Chadar Trek – Himalayas, India

If walking over a frozen river with a huge bag on your back for eight days sounds like fun to you, head to Chadar Trek in the Indian Himalayas. On the trek, you have to brave winter winds and snow, as well as sleep in caves and canyons. The hike is mostly dangerous because of the steep mountains and treacherous roads. If you’re looking for a step up from the normal Himalayas route, this is your hike.

4. The Snowman Trek – Bhutan

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Bhutan’s Snowman Trek is a 24-day-long adventure starting in Paro and ending in Nikka Chhu. Peaking at over 14,000 feet, this hike is particularly difficult because you have to tackle steep ascents and high-level passes. You can only venture there during the summer months because it’s so treacherous in the winter.

5. The Death Trail – Mount Huashan, China

Deep in China’s Mount Huashan, The Death Trail is said to be the most dangerous trail in the world. Between the narrow vertical staircases you have to climb throughout the trek. There are a  plethora of narrow passages that are nailed to the side of the mountain so don’t prepare to feel secure during the trip. Apparently, an estimated 100 people die per year on the trail. Yikes.