Do the ‘Worlds deadliest hike’ on Mt Huashan, China
Clip into the safety line, step onto the wooden planks fixed to the cliff face, and try not to spend too much time looking straight down. Mount Huashan is famous for steep stairways, exposed ridges and the Changkong Zhandao, usually translated as the Plank Walk in the Sky, which runs across the rock face below the South Peak. It has repeatedly been labelled the “world’s deadliest” or “most dangerous” hike, although that is a popular nickname rather than an official safety classification. Huashan is one of China’s Five Great Mountains and has a long association with Taoism, pilgrimage and religious retreat. The modern mountain experience mixes ancient paths with cable cars, stone staircases, chains and safety infrastructure. The plank walk is the section that made Huashan famous internationally: visitors traverse a narrow cliffside route using fixed protection, but it is only one part of a much larger mountain network. Shaanxi’s provincial government still describes Changkong Zhandao among Huashan’s most demanding and thrilling sections. Treat this as a serious mountain day rather than a stunt. The plank walk can close because of weather, maintenance or operating restrictions, so check current access before travelling and follow staff instructions on the mountain. A full Huashan visit can involve several hours of steep climbing even if you use cable cars for part of the ascent. Spring and autumn generally give the most favourable hiking conditions, while Chinese public holidays can bring very large crowds. Add this to your list and find out how comfortable you really are when the path beneath your feet is bolted to the side of a mountain.