This Is the Number One Most Terrifying Hike in the World

The most dangerous hike in the world
The most dangerous hike in the world | © Darren On The Road / WikiCommons

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If your idea of a hike is a friendly stroll up a paved hilltop, you will want to think carefully before attempting this death-defying trek. It is so out-of-this-world dangerous that it’s the number one most terrifying hike on the planet!

One hundred and twenty kilometres east of Xi’an, near the city of Huayin, lies what is China and the world’s most insane hike, Mount Huashan. It is made up of five majestic peaks which come together to form what looks like a flower. Each peak is named after their direction: North, South, East, West and Central, with the South Peak by far the most treacherous.

Mount Huashan peaks in the mist

The 2,160-metre-high ascent rises straight up the South Peak and is marked by numerous hazardous trails which, although risky, do add to the thrill of the climb. Although sections of the hike are more tame, you must navigate a host of ominous-sounding passes, including the Golden Lock Pass, Thousand-Foot Precipice, Hundred-Foot Crevice and Black Dragon, should you wish to climb to the top.

Don’t look down
Nothing but chains between you and the ground below

The rewards are there, however, for those who choose to take the risk. From the summit, thrill seekers will be able to take in the four other peaks of the mountain, as well as the distant Yellow River below them.

The mountain itself has been a site of religious importance since the second century BCE when a Taoist Jade Spring Temple was built at its base. Taoism being one of ancient China’s foremost religious and philosophical traditions, promoting the importance of naturalness, simplicity, spontaneity, compassion, frugality and humility.
For those who are prepared for a thrilling but dangerous adventure, hiking Huashan is both a physical feat and a spiritual journey through China’s history. Just be sure to tread carefully.

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