There are thousands of hiking trails in North America. Some of the trails are especially for beginners, and if you don’t have the experience, you may want to stay on those trails. For expert hikers, here are some of the most challenging, but arguably with the biggest payoff.
1. Bright Angel Trail, Arizona
One of the most famous hiking trails in North America is Bright Angel Trail. This very steep trail descends 9.5 miles to the floor of the Grand Canyon. The trail descends more than 4,400 feet from the rim of the canyon to the river below, and temperatures can soar to 110 degrees. Even though the trail is in the Grand Canyon National Park and is maintained by the park service team, it’s important to bring plenty of water, salty snacks, and iodine tablets. During the summer, you should plan taking two days to complete the trip.
Related article: 5 Sizzling Day Hikes of Arizona
2. Mount Rainier, Washington
Mount Rainier has more than 40 trails, but the Skyline/Muir Snowfield Trail leading to the summit is the most challenging and dangerous. The mountain has two volcanic craters, with a peak covered in ice and snow all year. The trail is only for expert climbers and ascends 2,800 feet. The climb usually takes between two and four days. The steep mountainside is dangerous, but climbers also face suffering from hypothermia if precautions aren’t taken. Another danger to climbing Mount Rainier is that powerful storms can come up suddenly. Before setting out, you should have a topographic map, a GPS, and a means of checking weather advisories from the weather and avalanche center.
Related article: 5 Breathtaking Trails in Washington State
3. The Maze, Canyonlands National Park, Utah
The Maze is strictly for advanced climbers and hikers. The trail which is similar to a maze extends 13.5 miles through the canyon and sandstone walls. The temperatures can reach 110 degrees or higher. It’s essential to take precautions before setting out. Although there have never been fatalities, the trail is very challenging. The canyons look very similar, and it can be hard to spot landmarks. It’s a necessity to have a GPS, map, and plenty of water.
Related article: Utah’s Exceptional Hiking
Featured Image from Sheelah Brennan/Unsplash
