While many people think of hiking as intensive trips through forests or up hillsides that last only a few hours, there are some trails around the world that offer a far more perilous experience for those who dare to travel there. They are defined by extreme altitude, razor-thin ridgelines, volatile weather, or remote terrain with no safety net.
Across the globe, certain paths are notorious not just for their beauty, but for the hazards that lurk along every step. These routes test a hiker’s physical limits and mental resolve, and they are not to be taken lightly. In fact, people have been known to perish along these trails while trying to reach the end.
So, which routes across the seven continents offer the most dangerous experiences for the most proficient hikers? Click through this gallery to find out.