Located north of Niagara Falls, the Devil’s Hole is named after the park’s history rather than the danger it poses. As the site of the 1763 battle between the British and the Seneca Native Americans, the area holds a dark past. It’s said that the British soldiers were slaughtered by the Native Americans, and there were no survivors.
The deadly battle was over an essential portage used by Native Americans to move their canoes around the falls and rapids on the Niagara River. It’s a popular tourist destination as in addition to its history, the park hosts views of Niagara Falls which make it appealing. However, if you don’t believe in ghosts, then Devil’s Hole in New York presents very little danger for visitors.
Utah Valley, Utah
Located east of Brigham Young University in Utah, Y Mountain is best known for carrying the enormous white “Y” of the school’s initials. Located in the Utah Valley, the Y Trail allows locals and visitors to climb up to the sign and take photos. It’s one of the most hiked trails in the area and offers views of the valley as well as a unique photo opportunity. While this hike is relatively easy, it only takes visitors approximately halfway up the mountain. As most people know, the best views are always from the top.
Off the top right corner of the Y, is a narrow hiking path that leads to the top of the mountain where it’s known for its epic views of Rock Canyon and Utah Valley. However, there are a number of dangerous obstacles that make this area so dangerous. While the initial hike to the Y is suitable for beginners, those who choose to climb to the top should be more experienced. The trail is steep and surrounded by deadly cliffs, causing many to get stuck or injured each year. If that doesn’t deter you, the countless sightings of Mountain lions and cougars on the trail just might!
New Orleans, Louisiana
Those who are looking for some mischief during their travels often end up in New Orleans, Louisiana. Famous for hosting the infamous Mardi Gras festival and its southern dishes, The Big Easy was also a victim of Hurricane Katrina in 2005. The city’s proximity to the sea often makes it a target during hurricane season, but that’s not why it’s considered dangerous.
Many residents lost their homes, cars, and businesses, forcing them to go into survival mode during the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Even to this day, locals are struggling just to get by. This has forced many to scam and steal from tourists, so much so that New Orleans has the highest crime rate in the country.
The Perrine Bridge, Idaho
Base jumping is illegal in almost every state, but the Perrine Bridge in Twin Falls, Idaho is one of the few places in the country that allows people to do this without a permit. Hundreds of people from all over jump off the bridge each year, some with more experience than others. As thrilling as base jumping may sound, it’s illegal in most of the country for a reason.
Injuries are a common occurrence while base jumping off the Perrine Bridge, but that doesn’t deter thrill-seeking tourists. Even the numerous deaths that have happened on that bridge and the hundreds that happen when people go base jumping illegally doesn’t stop people from giving it a try.
Bright Angel Trail, Arizona
The Bright Angel Trail in Arizona descends 4,380 feet from Grand Canyon Village to the Colorado River, boasting sights of the canyon and the park. It is also a common route to some campsites along the river, but it’s far from an easy trek. In addition to hikers, the narrow, steep trail is also commonly used by mules transporting gear to nearby campgrounds. The mules must be given the right of way, which can be a tight squeeze on this notoriously narrow trail. However, this isn’t what makes it dangerous.
Since the hike is less than a mile, people underestimate its hazards. Sudden rainfall and flash floods are common in the area and could lead to hikers getting stuck at the bottom of the trail. Falling debris and rocks or loose dirt often cause visitors to slip or fall, leading to some of the more serious injuries. The biggest danger, however, is failing to properly prepare for Arizona’s dry and humid air. Dehydration and heat exhaustion are common troubles visitors experience on this trail.