The most challenging treks and hikes in the world

There is something about the mountains, right? Something that inspires as well as challenge us at the same time; the lofty heights making us feel humble as well as intrigued. Intrigued enough to explore further. If you are privy to that emotion and are keen for a challenge, here’s a preview of some of the most challenging hikes and treks in the world.

This seems to be the only name on the list that sounds easier than it is. It is a 15-km hike in the Grand Canyon National Park, which seems easy but the temperature can soar up to 37 degree Celsius; as a result of that, many come unprepared and face a lot of heat-related injuries.

This one-week trail scales up to 4000 feet (approx.). The trek is on a very narrow lane but there are other challenges here. The South American weather is often unpredictable; it has been estimated that the river crosses are knee deep during the dry season, which is not very easy to cross.

But, in the season of downpour, the water level reaches chest level, making it more of a swim than a trek.

The trek name might read cute to some, but that should not make you think that it is going to be as easy as making a snowman. To give you an idea of how challenging it really is, remember that it is widely said that there is a 50% failure rate for those who climb.

One of the most challenging climbs in the world, and the hardest one in Nepal, it is nearly impossible in winter months.

But yes, you will be rewarded with gorgeous views to keep you going.

To conclude the list, we have Mount Kilimanjaro. There are many routes for you to take but the most challenging one is the Whiskey Route, also known as the Machame Route. It is one of the most direct and challenging climbs in the world.

While on this route, people usually face problems due to the altitude. A 36-km walk that takes one from water bodies to lush green forests to glaciers. One can complete this trek in a week if the altitude sickness doesn’t get to them.

This name in the list must not be a big surprise for anybody. It is hands down one of the most difficult climbs in the world and also the most prestigious ones.

The climb is not a short one, it takes as many as two weeks to complete. Time is not the only challenge, flowing rivers, snow clad mountain peaks and uneven terrain makes it very difficult to climb.

However, it can be said that once the mountains are scaled, the view would definitely be worth it.

Spanning over 75 miles, it will take you through one of the most iconic and beautiful mountains in the world. More than anything, you will need oodles of will power to complete this one. A challenging 8-9 day climb will get you to experience all four seasons at the same time.

The interesting detail about this climb is that it has an extremely steep, almost a 90-degree uphill climb.

A 22-mile hike, it has an elevation gain of about 5000 feet. This is a favourite among trekkers since it is the only land access to one of the most breathtaking locations, the No Pali Coast.

The hike is moderately difficult because the path that is scaled by trekkers and climbers is mostly slippery due to downpour and mud.

Another reason that indicates how dangerous this hike is that once one decides to climb the peak, they will be all by themselves. There will be no guide helping. However, if you think that’s enough danger to scare or challenge you, then you must also know about the ferocious predators who live there.