Are you brave enough to visit America's most DANGEROUS destinations?

Deadly destinations

From hair-raising highways to perilous mountain peaks, America has no shortage of dangerous destinations for daring travellers. We’ve rounded up some of the riskiest, but ultimately rewarding, out there. Remember to follow safety advice, rules or regulations if you decide to visit.

Click through the gallery to discover where to head in the US if you’re feeling brave…

Antelope Canyon, Arizona

Antelope Canyon’s winding, textured walls filter sunbeams in such a way that they spectacularly illuminate the scarlet and orange hues in the sandstone, making any visit there like attending an ever-changing interactive art show. They were formed by powerful floods that swept through the area over thousands of years, and still do, which is what makes the canyon such a risky place to visit. In 1997, 11 people were killed when they were taken by surprise by floodwaters from a storm 15 miles (24km) away. Escape ladders and stairways have now been installed and visitors have to be accompanied by authorised Navajo guides.

Buffalo National River, Arkansas

The Buffalo National River is a stunning location which offers a diverse range of activities from canoeing and hiking to camping and fishing. However, the area is prone to flash flooding, especially after storms, which can appear without much warning. Venturing out on foot comes with another set of risks as there are many bluffs, sinkholes and caves within the park which can be dangerous to explore. To enjoy the area safely make sure that you come prepared with the proper equipment and know how to use it. Leave a detailed itinerary and estimated return time with someone too. 

Half Dome, California

Hana Highway, Maui, Hawaii

The scenic Hana Highway offers stunning views of Maui's coastline, waterfalls and lush rainforest. However, it’s a single lane, notoriously windy road that can be particularly narrow in certain areas. Steep cliff sides can be camouflaged by vegetation and the area is also prone to landslides, making it a potentially hazardous drive. Driving slowly, beeping your horn as you approach hairpin bends and taking regular breaks – in designated parking spots – are all keys to getting the best out of the route.

New Orleans, Louisiana

Everglades National Park, Florida

The Everglades is the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States and provides an important habitat for numerous rare and endangered species. The alligators and crocodiles that inhabit the swamps are undoubtedly one of the park’s biggest draws, while also being one of its biggest dangers. They may look like statues at times, but their reactions can be lightning fast. Venomous snakes, mosquitoes and poisonous plants are other risks to be aware of. Common sense should prevail here – keep at least 15 feet (4.5m) away from the crocodilians, don’t touch any unfamiliar plants and bring plenty of insect repellent. 

Mount Denali, Alaska

Slickrock Biking Trail, Utah

Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri

This idyllic man-made lake, 92 miles (148km) long, is the centrepiece of a major tourist resort in Missouri, and a magnet for lovers of water sports. But it’s also considered one of America’s most dangerous lakes, largely due to its unusual serpentine shape, with numerous small inlets shooting off the main body of water. These create blind spots for boaters and collisions at the intersections are frequent. But the lake also harbours other dangers. Strong currents are a challenge for swimmers, while venomous snakes and even piranhas have been found in the lake. 

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New Smyrna Beach, Florida

With its 17 mile (27km) stretch of white sandy beaches, as well as some of the best wave action on the east coast, it is easy to see the appeal of New Smyrna Beach. But that appeal may start to wane when you hear it has been dubbed 'the shark bite capital of the world'. In the summer of 2024, two people were bitten within two days of each other. Thankfully the odds of getting bitten are very small (there were only 69 bites in the entire world last year). Avoid shiny jewellery or entering the water with an open wound to reduce the risk even further.

Memphis, Tennessee

Memphis is regarded as the home of blues and rock and roll. It has an enduring allure for all those wanting to follow in the footsteps of legends such as Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash, iconic artists who recorded albums here in the 1950s. Unfortunately, it also has a reputation as one of the most violent cities in the United States with 400 homicides recorded in 2023. Tourists can stay safe by sticking to the popular downtown area where the Police Department has recently upped security measures.  A group of security guards known as the Blue Suede Brigade provide extra reassurance.

Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina/Virginia

Carlsbad Caverns, New Mexico

Every year thousands of visitors come to the Carlsbad Caverns to see the stunning caves formed by sulphuric acid dissolving limestone. Some areas of the Big Room and Natural Entrance Trails are steep and wet from natural water drips, making slips, trips and falls likely if you’re not wearing appropriate footwear. But the real danger that lurks here is invisible. Dangerous levels of radon – a gas linked with lung cancer – have been detected in the caves prompting the National Park Service to introduce an action plan to keep visitors and staff as safe as possible. 

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Visitors flock to the natural filled wonders of Yellowstone, the very first US National Park founded back in 1872. Danger is all around them though in the shape of the park’s hot, near boiling hydrothermal waters. Water in hot springs can cause severe or fatal burns, and scalding water underlies most of the thin, breakable crust around them. There are plenty of cautionary signs advising visitors to stick to the boardwalks for their own safety, but some foolish souls choose to ignore them. More than 20 people have died after entering or falling into the springs. 

Gauley River, West Virginia

The Gauley River attracts thrill seekers wanting to embark on whitewater boating, but it can be dangerous if you don’t know what you’re doing, and sometimes even if you do. There are strong currents, undertows and a rocky bottom all along the river. The water levels change daily and just because you were safe today, doesn’t mean you will be tomorrow. To enjoy boating as safely as possible you should know your skill level and stick to the sections of the river that best suit that skill, keep an eye on conditions – and always wear a life jacket. 

Mount St.Helens, Washington

The fact that Mount St. Helen's is one of America’s most dangerous volcanoes is all part of its appeal. Every year thousands of climbers make the journey to the crater rim. It might not have blown for a while, but the US Geological Survey noted an uptick in earthquakes in the area in 2023, the most activity the volcano had seen since it last erupted in 2008. The USGS said there was no immediate cause for concern but as scientists fully expect the volcano to erupt again at some point in the future, it might be a good idea to visit while you can. 

Ocean Beach, California

Mount Washington, New Hampshire

St Louis, Missouri

Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado

Although it’s an area of outstanding natural beauty, Great Sand Dunes National Park is also one of the hottest places in the world during the summer. In August the sand can reach temperatures of 65°C (150°F), which can melt the shoes of anyone rash enough to walk on it. Severe burns, heatstroke and dehydration are other common dangers, along with quicksand, lightning strikes and pitfalls along the pathways. Visitors should always travel with experienced local guides and carry maps and ample water. Or simply go at a cooler time of year.

Corbet's Couloir, Wyoming

Corbet’s Couloir in Wyoming’s Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is one of the most dangerous ski slopes in the world. The run’s extreme vertical drop of 4,139 feet (1,261m) is daunting enough, but it’s also dotted with obstacles such as boulders, trees and sharp turns. Few manage to complete the run, but thankfully there are other reasons to visit the area. The resort offers terrain for all levels of skiers, while an aerial tram runs all the way to the top of the slope, giving stunning panoramic views of the Teton Range in the Rocky Mountains. 

Death Valley National Park, California

Appalachian Trail (14 states)

The world’s longest hiking-only footpath, the Appalachian Trail runs for 2,190 miles (3,524km) through 14 states, offering stunning views over some of America’s most impressive landscapes. It’s not for the faint hearted, however. The trail’s gruelling mountainous terrain has an elevation gain and loss equivalent to climbing and descending Mount Everest 16 times, and is also home to numerous dangerous viruses, parasites and pathogens (and bears). Hiking the entire trail takes between five and seven months, but 'section-hikers' can do it in stages over the course of several years. 

Sedan Crater, Nevada

Nevada has no shortage of atomic bomb testing sites and Sedan Crater is one of the most impressive. The result of an underground thermonuclear explosion in 1962, this enormous pit is around 1,280 feet (390m) wide and 320 feet (98m) deep, making it the largest human-made crater in the US. Falling in, however, is less of a danger for tourists than the high levels of radiation which could be present in the area. Although deemed safe by the government, not everyone agrees, and potential visitors might want to think twice before signing up for a tour. 

Dalton Highway, Alaska

The Maze, Utah

This aptly named 30 square mile (77.7sq km) cluster of high-walled canyons offers spectacular views and an unforgettable experience of the true Utah wilderness. But its remote location, arduous terrain and labyrinthine layout make it a risky proposition, even for experienced off-road explorers. As the least accessible district of Canyonlands, even getting there is a major operation, and a proper visit will take several days. Hikers should come well prepared for self-sufficiency (and even self-rescue) and equipped with a detailed map, as GPS units are unreliable in this terrain. 

Grand Canyon, Arizona

It’s one of the most iconic destinations in the US, attracting around five million visitors every year, and offering awe-inspiring views over the vast expanse of its mile-deep (1.6km) chasm. But the Grand Canyon can also be a dangerous place for the careless or unprepared and has claimed an average of 17 lives per year since 2014. Heatstroke and dehydration can be a major problem for anyone unfamiliar with Arizona’s dry desert heat, but park data says the number one cause of death is 'photographing'. So be careful when taking that selfie at the canyon’s edge. 

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii

Hawaii’s Volcanoes National Park contains two of the world’s most active volcanoes – Kilauea and Mauna Loa. Two thousand residents had to flee when Kilauea erupted in 2018 so any visit to the park is going to seem a little risky. But when it comes down to it, getting up close and personal to lava is what visits to this park are all about. When it’s flowing there are tours which allow you to view it safely with Lava Boat Tours offering the closest encounters. 

Berkeley Pitt, Montana

Berkeley Pit was an active copper mine until 1982, but after it was shut down the miners departed with their water pumps leaving the pit to fill up with groundwater. That water is extremely toxic thanks to the pollution caused by years of mining combined with natural minerals in the ground.  However, the intriguing colour changes caused by the chemicals and heavy metals – it changes from black to red and sometimes an unnatural blue – mean that the pit has become something of a tourist attraction. You’ll be safe as long as you don’t try and take a dip.

Jacob’s Well, Texas

Jacob’s Well has a reputation as one of the most dangerous diving spots in the world. The mile-deep (1.6km) natural pool extends into a series of intricate caves which have proved alluring to adventurous divers. However, at least nine people have died after being trapped in the underwater caverns and now only licensed scuba divers are permitted to explore the depths. If you just want to take a quick dip, it’s still a lovely place to escape the Texas heat, with waters that stay a refreshing 20°C (68°F) all year round.

Now check out the world's most dangerous beaches

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