The trail that runs through Malaga is the second most dangerous coastal mountain trail in the world

Imagine jagged cliffs that plunge into crashing seas, vertiginous views, heart-pounding pathways carved into mountains and the salty tang in the air. 

Some coastal mountain trails are dangerous, combining the power of the mountains with the beauty of the sea.

For thrill-seekers or cautious hikers, knowing which trails are dangerous is essential. We’ve searched the globe and delved into verified data to find the most dangerous trails. Top five most dangerous coastal mountainous trails—each a breathtaking, yet terrifying, adventure. This countdown is packed with gripping facts and information that will keep you on your toes.

No guesswork involved in our ranking.  We’ve leaned on Evidence that cannot be refuted From sources such as National Park Service, caminitodelrey.info, Fodor’s (2023), CNN (2022)., Outside Online (2024). Atlas & Boots (2022)Focusing on Fatalities, hazards (sheer drops or slippery terrain) Hiker traffic. Safety measures. 

We defined “coastal trails” as those within 50 miles of the sea or ocean or in coastal areas, and “mountain paths” as rough, elevated routes. Sensationalist claims—like Cuatro.com’s 2024 hype about El Caminito del Rey being the world’s deadliest—were debunked with cold, hard stats. 

Want to see where danger meets beauty? Let’s go!

1.-Kalalau Trail (Na Pali Coast, Kauai, Hawaii, USA)

Why it’s DeadlyImagine yourself clinging onto a crumbling, muddy path while waves crash below you 300 feet away, without a guardrail to protect you. The Kalalau TrailThe 22-mile trail, which runs along Kauai’s Na Pali Coast is the most dangerous coastal mountain trail. Hikers face sheer cliffs, Flash floods. Slippery stream crossingsThe Pacific Ocean is waiting for any mistake.

Hard Facts:

• Fatalities: Local reports estimate 15+ deaths Since the 1970s, Rescues of dozens per year Falls or drownings are the most common causes of death (CNN2022, Adventure 2022). Kauai emergency services confirm that there are many incidents.
• HazardsNarrow roads with 300-foot drop-offs (Crawler’s Ledge), torrential rainfall, and elevation gain of up to 5 000 feet in coastal mountains. In a flash, flash floods can wash away hikers.
• TrafficThe moderate, with 160 backpackers/day via permits, plus day hikers, increasing risks (NPS data).
• SafetyPermits must be obtained, but No guardrails, no support on site exists. In this remote paradise, you’re still hours away from help.

The ThrillBeauty hides danger. The emerald cliffs on the Na Pali Coast are breathtaking, but there is a price to pay. Crawler’s Ledge is dangerous. One wrong step and you are gone. CNN (2022), locals and CNN call it America’s most dangerous trail.

Why #1Kalalau’s constant rescues and estimated deaths are a cause for concern. Also, the direct ocean exposure is unmatched by other places. If you’re hiking here, pack courage—and a survival plan.

2.-El Caminito del Rey (Malaga, Spain)

Why it’s DeadlyOnce called the “world’s dangerous walkway,” El Caminito del Rey A spine-chilling trail pinned on cliffs is located in the El Chorro canyon of Malaga 350 feet Above the Guadalhorce River. Its history is soaked in tragedy, but a 2015 overhaul has tamed its wild edge—yet the thrill remains. This coastal gem, located just 25 miles from the Mediterranean Sea, is a must-see for adrenaline addicts.

Hard Facts:

• Fatalities: 5–10 deaths before its 2000 closure, including four in 1999 (caminitodelrey.info, Fodor’s 2023). Zero deaths since the 2015 €5.5 million restoration, a testament to its new safety focus.
• HazardsPreviously, bridges that swayed and narrow walkways crumbled beneath your feet. Risks are higher today. vertigo Steel paths and guardrails can mitigate the effects of a rare human error, such as ignoring harness rules.
• TrafficStrictly 1,100 hikers/day Permits are used to keep crowds under control.
• Safety: Helmets are mandatory for all drivers, harnesses It is now a tourist-friendly road, unlike the past. Guardrails are installed in dangerous sections and there is a one-way route.

The ThrillThe adrenaline rush of walking a plank at 350 feet above the canyon below is unbeatable. Malaga’s sunny charm and proximity to the Mediterranean add a coastal feel. Fodor’s (2023) and National Geographic (2015) praise its transformation, but Cuatro.com’s 2024 claim of “most dangerous” is hype—zero deaths prove it’s safer now.

3.- Mount Kinabalu in Sabah (Malaysia)

Why it’s Deadly: Rising 13 435 feet Borneo’s coastal mountain ranges Mount Kinabalu It’s a monster climb that is only 30 miles away from the South China Sea. Its steep, slick slopes are still a challenge for hikers, even after a deadly 2015 earthquake. The coastal monsoons make it even more dangerous.

Hard Facts:

• Fatalities: Seven deaths occurred in 2015. Rockfalls caused by earthquakes are the most common cause of death (CNN 2022). Accidents and injuries are frequent.
• Hazards: 5.5 mile trail Granite slabs, ropes and other materials can be used to create a variety of designs. altitude sickness risks. Monsoons make paths treacherous.
• Traffic: Moderate, ~30,000 climbers/yearPermits are required to operate.
• Safety: Mandatory guidesThe use of safety ropes and upgrades to the system after 2015 have reduced risks. However, altitude and weather are still unforgiving.

The ThrillIt’s an epic experience to climb Southeast Asia’s highest peak while surrounded by jungles. The South China Sea horizon is a beautiful addition, but climbing to the top requires respect. CNN (2022) & Mountainiq.com (2033) both highlight the 2015 tragedy but note its relative safety now.

Why #3: 7 deaths El Caminito had the same number of fatalities in 2015, but fewer accidents and more safety measures, such as guides, ropes, kept it at the bottom. Although its high altitude makes it superior to lower trails, less exposure on the cliffs keeps it in second place.

4.- Tongariro Alpine Crossing (North Island, New Zealand)

Why it’s DeadlyThe Tasman Sea is only 30 miles away. Tongariro Alpine Crossing Winds through New Zealand’s volcanic mountains where ice winds meet fiery craters. This 12-mile journey is an eye-opener, but its loose scree, and wild weather has caught hikers unaware.

Hard Facts:

• Fatalities: 2–3 deaths Since 2000 (falls and hypothermia), there have been many injuries (Mountainiq.com, 2023). An eruption in 2012 caused evacuations.
• HazardsSteep climbs up to 6,188 feet (Red Crater), The loose screeThere are also risks from volcanic eruptions, snow and fog. The proximity of the coast brings unpredictable weather.
• Traffic: High, ~100,000 hikers/year, boosting incident rates.
• SafetyNo physical barriers, but guided tours, weather alerts and volcano monitoring.

The ThrillEmerald Lakes and steaming spouts are otherworldly. The Tasman Sea is a coastal influence that adds a unique edge. Mountainiq.com (2023) and Atlas & Boots (2022) warn of its risks, but its beauty draws crowds.

Why #4: Fewer deaths (2–3) than El Caminito’s 5–10 or Kinabalu’s 7, and less cliffside exposure. Traffic increases injury rates, but the sporadic volcano risks keep it from being ranked higher.

5. Lion’s Head, Cape Town (South Africa)

Why it’s DeadlyCape Town is perched on the Atlantic coast. Lion’s Head offers a 3-mile scramble with coastal views that’ll steal your breath—if the climb doesn’t first. Its chain ladders, windy cliffs and steep slopes are dangerous despite its popularity.

Hard Facts:

• Fatalities: 1–2 deaths South African National Parks (2023) will have frequent rescues (e.g. fall 2018).
• HazardsThe steep scrambles and exposed cliffs are a challenge for anyone. 2195 feet. Conditions are slippery due to coastal winds and fog.
• Traffic: High, Thousands of dollars are earned each weekParticularly at sunrise and sunset.
• SafetyNo permits, no guardrails or signage.

The ThrillIt’s magical to watch the Atlantic shimmer from the summit, but its intensity is a surprise for many. Atlas & Boots (2022) and local reports note rescues, yet its short length keeps fatalities low.

Why #5?: Minimal deaths (1–2) and shorter trail make it less dangerous than Tongariro’s 2–3 deaths or El Caminito’s 5–10, coastal winds add risk, but lower exposure secures its spot.

Why this Ranking?

• Kalalau (#1): 15+ deathsThere are currently ongoing rescues. The 300-foot Pacific Cliffs CNN 2022). The direct coastal danger it poses is unmatched.
• El Caminito (#2)Historical 5–10 deaths A 350-foot gorge Make it a Legend, but zero deaths since 2015 (caminitodelrey.info) place it below Kalalau’s active risks. The Mediterranean feel and the safety upgrades are appealing to “” readers.
• Kinabalu # 3: 7 deaths In 2015, high altitude surpassed Tongariro in terms of death toll but improved conditions lowered its ranking.
• Tongariro (#4): 2–3 deaths and high traffic outweigh Lion’s Head’s 1–2, but has less exposure than higher ranks.
• Lion’s Head (5th)It is considered the safest trail, even with coastal winds.

Considerations for Credibility

• Sources of Data:
  • NPSThe estimated number of deaths and rescues at Kalalau are confirmed.
  • Caminitodelrey.info: Verifies El Caminito’s zero deaths Post-2015: a debunking of Cuatro.com 2024 hype
  • Fodor’s, CNN: Support Kalalau’s 15+ deaths Kinabalu has 7.
  • Mountainiq.com, Atlas & Boots: Validate Tongariro’s 2–3 deaths and Lion’s Head’s 1–2.
  • Weather.com (2025): Contextualises coastal risks.
• Debunking HypeEl Caminito is not “most dangerous”, as Cuatro.com claims. Jetboil’s ranking of #3 in the world (2024) is an overestimation of its current level. We only used verified statistics.
• Data GapsKalalau’s death count is estimated (15+), however, rescues have been documented. El Caminito’s 5–10 pre-2000 You can also find out more about the following: zero post-2015 Precision is key to accuracy.
• Coastal Scope: Few mountain trails are coastal (<50 miles). Kalalau and El Caminito are the most popular due to their fatalities and exposure. Some (e.g. Cinque Terre, Mount Maunganui, etc.) are just too safe.

Brave Hikers, Tips and Tricks

These mountain trails aren’t for joking. Kalalau demands waterproof gear and flood awareness—check NPS warnings. El Caminito is safer but requires permits (book at caminitodelrey.info); don’t skip the helmet! Kinabalu Needs altitude preparation and a guide. Tongariro Warm layers and eruption alerts are called for. Lion’s Head is windy—stick to ladders. Know your limits, check the weather and pack sturdy boots. These trails reward the brave but punish those who are careless.

Why it matters