15 Treks Where Nature Doesn’t Go Easy On You

Think you’ve done a “hard” hike? You might be in for a surprise. These trails don’t care about your step count or gym routine. They come with altitude sickness, sketchy cliffs, and weather that flips moods fast. Ready to sweat, swear, and maybe cry a little? Lace up—we’re going up.

The Inca Trail, Peru

Every step on the Inca Trail tests strength, especially as you climb toward Dead Woman’s Pass at 13,780 feet. At this altitude, the air becomes thin, and breathing turns into a struggle. And to succeed, you need endurance training and layers of clothing for temperature shifts.

The Lost City Trek, Colombia

Hidden deep in Colombia’s Sierra Nevada mountains, the Lost City Trek leads to Ciudad Perdida, a sacred site built around 800 AD—older than Machu Picchu. The 28-mile journey tests endurance with thick jungle heat, river crossings, and dense swarms of mosquitoes. And it ends with 1,200 steep stone steps to the ancient terraces.

Mount Everest Base Camp Trek, Nepal

Altitude ascends to 17,598 feet, higher than most European peaks. The thin air and reduced oxygen levels make sickness a serious concern, requiring days to acclimatize. Beyond physical endurance, trekkers face sub-zero nighttime temperatures and fierce winds that whip through exposed ridges.

The Haute Route, France/Switzerland

This legendary trek crosses 11 mountain passes and covers approximately 132 miles between Chamonix and Zermatt. The highest point, Pigne d’Arolla, demands crampons and glacier-crossing expertise because of sudden storms that reduce visibility to near zero. From start to finish, this trek is a masterclass in willpower.

The Pacific Crest Trail, USA

Running from the Mexican border to Canada, the Pacific Crest Trail spans 2,650 miles through dramatic Western U.S. landscapes. It crosses deserts, forests, and alpine terrain. Weather extremes and elevation changes are constant challenges. So, planning resupplies and managing gear weight is critical for those hoping to complete this epic trek.

The West Coast Trail, Canada

Once a rescue path for shipwrecked sailors, the West Coast Trail now draws seasoned hikers to its rugged, 47-mile journey along Vancouver Island. Trekkers face relentless mud, steep ladders, and wild weather. River crossings and tidal delays add to the challenge, making preparation and waterproof gear absolutely essential.

Torres Del Paine Circuit, Chile

The Torres Del Paine Circuit is a battle against nature. One moment, you’re climbing a steep ridge; the next, fierce winds threaten to knock you off balance. Additionally, river crossings demand careful footing, as sudden storms can turn trails into slippery mud. To endure this trek, pack wisely and pace yourself carefully.

The Overland Track, Australia

This 40-mile trek spans through Tasmania’s Cradle Mountain–Lake St. Clair National Park. Hikers pilot steep climbs, remote trails, and diverse ecosystems, with snow possible even in summer. Wildlife sightings—like wombats and echidnas—add to the journey, making each day on the Overland Track a blend of challenge and discovery.

The Drakensberg Mountains, South Africa

Cutting across 700 miles, the Drakensberg Mountains demand physical stamina. Slippery rock surfaces and strong winds make moving through this trek difficult. In fact, it’s important to train for multi-day hiking and prepare for extreme weather shifts. The route also passes through Khahlamba-Drakensberg Park, offering a glimpse into South Africa’s rugged wilderness.  

The Toubkal Trek, Morocco

At 13,671 feet, Mt. Toubkal towers are North Africa’s highest summit. Located in Morocco’s Atlas Mountains, the trek challenges climbers with steep inclines and thinning air. Most begin from Imlil village, pushing through rocky switchbacks and snow-dusted ridges. The final stretch demands grit, especially as oxygen becomes noticeably scarce.

Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

It’s the world’s tallest free-standing mountain, towering 19,341 feet above sea level. Kilimanjaro presents challenges like altitude sickness and harsh weather, which can lead to fatigue. Many hikers struggle with breathing difficulties, dehydration, and cold temperatures near the summit. To overcome these obstacles, drink plenty of water while wearing insulated clothing.

Mount Huashan, China

Huashan, one of China’s Five Great Mountains, is famed for its near-vertical ascents and dizzying cliffside paths. Trekkers must navigate narrow ledges and unpredictable weather while staying securely clipped to safety lines. The infamous Plank Walk, bolted into sheer rock faces, tests both balance and courage with every careful step.

The Kalalau Trail, Hawaii, USA

Few paths capture both danger and paradise like Kalalau. This 11-mile hike along the Na Pali Coast features sharp cliffside ridges with no guardrails. The infamous “Crawler’s Ledge” forces hikers along a narrow rock shelf hundreds of feet above the crashing Pacific. The journey ends at Kalalau Valley, rich in Hawaiian history and natural beauty.

Zion’s Angels Landing, USA

Angels Landing is challenging, as trekkers face strong winds and crowded trails, and the final section requires chains for support. To succeed, hikers must wear sturdy footwear, keep a firm grip on chains, and begin their trek early to beat the crowds. The views at the summit, though, make every careful step worth the effort

The Annapurna Circuit, Nepal

Dizzying heights and unpredictable weather define this legendary trek. Winding around the Annapurna Massif, it crosses two river valleys and culminates at the formidable Thorong La Pass, standing 5,416 meters high. Most trekkers even have to move anticlockwise to adapt to the altitude gradually. Success on this trail demands a deep respect for the mountain’s shifting temperament.