You are about to view pictures of a mountain hiking trail on Mt Huashan which is located in China. After you see the pictures, I have little doubt you will agree that it might just be the most dangerous Tourist Hiking Trail in the world.
There is a big difference between mountain climbing and mountain hiking. Mountain climbers have training, experience, and equipment. They also know full well the risks they are taking. Mountain Hiking is usually done by amateurs. I am more the hiking type myself. I remember walking to the top of Longs Peak in Colorado. It was a long way up there. It took the better part of a day, but it was worth it. The view was stunning, the weather was wonderful and the workout was exhilarating. Of course I was tired, but I didn't care! I still consider that climb to be one of the most enjoyable days of my life.
One memory I carry from the Longs Peak experience was that I was never in fear. The trails were well-groomed, there were ropes on either side of the trail whenever necessary, and there was no area steep enough to require stairs. It was simply a long, very pleasant walk. In my opinion, there was little risk involved.
The trail at Mt Huashan is much different. When I first posted the pictures of Huashan in January 2007, I believed it was the most dangerous trail I had ever seen. It is important to note since I first wrote this story, I have received several letters that suggest the Chinese have made significant improvements to this trail.
I certainly hope so because in its original state the Huashan Hiking Trail was definitely a Death Trap. In addition to the story of Frank and Laura that you will read, I have two different people - both Chinese Nationals - who have written to me of past tragedies at Huashan.
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