The World's Most Challenging and Grueling Hikes

What are the most difficult hikes in the world? To help you find some of the toughest trails, we’ve put together this list. Hiking is not only a fantastic way to explore new places, but it’s also excellent for building endurance. Challenging yourself and boosting your stamina is essential for a healthy lifestyle, and what better way to do that than with a demanding hike? We’ve covered the toughest hikes in Europe, but if you’re interested in venturing beyond Europe, here are some of the world’s most strenuous treks.

Mount Hua Shan in China, informally known as the “most dangerous hike in the world,” features a plank walk on one of China’s Five Sacred Mountains. The hike includes steep steel rod ladders, narrow wooden pathways with high drops, and a safety chain to hold onto. It only takes 20 minutes, but the terrifying heights and sheer cliffs make it a mentally taxing challenge.

The Snowman Trek in Bhutan is the country’s longest and one of the most difficult trails globally, thanks to harsh weather, long duration, and high altitudes. Spanning 347 km, this trek can take about 25 days to complete and involves camping at elevations as high as 5000 meters. The trail passes through remote villages and mountainous passes, with sightings of snow leopards along the way. The trek is costly, averaging around $6000.

In Europe, the Grande Randonnée (GR) 20 route in Corsica, France, is known as the toughest long-distance trek. This 180 km trail crosses the Mediterranean island diagonally and takes roughly 15 days to complete, with an elevation gain of 12,000 meters. The GR 20 can be broken into stages, allowing hikers to tackle parts of it rather than the entire route. The trail is lined with mountain refuges where hikers can camp near, making it one of the most scenic and arduous hikes in Europe.

The trek to Ciudad Perdida (the Lost City) in Colombia is both challenging and rewarding. Believed to be founded around 800 CE, it predates Machu Picchu. The only way to reach it is through a 42 km hike that takes about 4 days. This trek winds through jungle paths, ancient ruins, lovely waterfalls, and native villages. The route is difficult due to steep slopes, unpredictable weather, and river crossings that can be chest-deep during the rainy season.

For those looking to trek in the U.S., the Nā Pali cliffs on Kauai’s Kalalau Trail offer another level of difficulty. This 35 km trail from Ke’e Beach to Kalalau Valley is known for its majestic views and high-risk terrain. The trail navigates through five valleys, offering stunning vistas of the Pacific Ocean, but is steep, narrow, and can become muddy and slippery if it rains.

Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania is the tallest peak in Africa and the highest free-standing mountain in the world, standing 5,895 meters high. Despite its proximity to the Equator, its peak is snow-covered. Climbing Kilimanjaro typically takes 5 to 9 days and requires hiring a guide or joining a group tour. The most challenging route, known as the Whiskey Route or Machame Route, is difficult and steep. Climbing Kilimanjaro isn’t cheap, costing between $2000 and $4000. For those on a budget, a day hike to the base camp is a more affordable option.

This list should give you a good idea of some of the most arduous hikes around the globe, each offering unique challenges and incredible rewards.