Challenging Hiking Trails Around the World: Stories from an Adventurer
The allure of challenging hiking trails is what keeps many of us exploring the great outdoors, pushing our physical and mental boundaries. From steep mountain faces in Scotland to the breathtaking vistas of the Grand Canyon, these adventures not only test endurance but also provide unforgettable experiences and lifelong memories. Here are some of the most difficult trails from the perspective of an avid hiker who has been to some of the world's most challenging regions.
A Fitness Trail for the Brave
One of the most challenging fitness trails I have encountered is a 3-mile route that features a 70% slope on average with vertical pitches. The terrain is made up of soft sand, gravelly rock, and boulders the size of cars. Along the way, there are exercise stations placed about every 250 meters, and hikers must carry a 60-pound pack, making it a true test of strength and perseverance.
Waterlogged Adventure: A Concert Turned Mud Run
On July 4, a group of friends and I attended a concert in the Berkshire Mountains in New England. What was supposed to be an enjoyable evening turned into a muddy ordeal when torrential rain ruined the plans. The weather forecast had promised a lovely evening, but the temperature dropped by about 10 degrees, and we ended up wading through mud, scrambling back to our car after the concert. One of us even lost a shoe, and we managed to hail a bus to get back to our car. It was reminiscent of the historic Woodstock festival, but without the “good drugs” to ease the discomfort.
Scottish Highlands: Ben Nevis and Aonach Eagach
During a semester abroad in England, I had the opportunity to explore the Lake District and the Scottish Highlands. The two most challenging hikes were Ben Nevis and the Aonach Eagach ridge walk, both in the same week while visiting Scotland.
On the last day of May 1991, I and my friend D. tackled Ben Nevis, the highest point in the British Isles. We opted for a longer loop that involved ascending more than a vertical mile in one day, with about 5500′ of elevation gain. The summit of Ben Nevis was covered with two feet of snow, and snow patches were visible across the northern gullies. This trail offered an experience of alpine climbing that was both exciting and challenging.
The following day, I took on the Aonach Eagach ridge walk in Glen Coe, a steep and challenging ridge known for its vertical cliffs and rock faces. The hike was a physical and mental test, especially for an older British gentleman I encountered halfway up who was also doing his first attempt. After successfully completing the challenging scramble, I took a risky route down the scree slopes, which earned me a well-deserved drink at the Clachaig Inn, a renowned pub in the area.
Grand Canyon: An Overnight Hike
Returning home later that summer, I did an overnight hike into the Grand Canyon down the South Kaibab and out the Bright Angel trail, which was equally breathtaking. The vistas were awe-inspiring, and the trail was an intense but rewarding experience. It was every bit as awesome as one would expect from one of the world's natural wonders.
The combination of challenging trails, unpredictable weather, and the captivating scenery has fueled my relentless pursuit of adventure. Whether it's the Scottish Highlands, the harsh American West, or the serene Lake District, these experiences have not only strengthened my resolve but also enriched my understanding of the natural world around us.