10 Most Challenging Hiking Trails in the United States

Windom Peak

This trail is known less for its scenic views and more for the challenge in hiking. It is known for a high risk of lightning, which results in a recommendation that hikers top out by 11 a.m. Besides this threat, however, you also have to watch out for wind, hail, and snow, even in the summer.

This trail is located in the San Juan Mountains of Colorado, where the air is known to be much thinner than in other states in the U.S. This results in oxygen being a major concern for hikers on Windom Peak. At 20 miles in duration, and with elevation shifts during the trail hike, a challenge is sure to be expected. The highest point is 11,600 feet, and with violent thunderstorms being prominent in the area and poor weather conditions, Windom Peak is definitely one of the most challenging trails in the country.