The Maze, Utah
They don’t call this popular tourist spot ‘The Maze’ for no reason. As the least accessible district of Canyonlands, it should come as no surprise that it’s more than forty miles away from civilization and takes at least a few days to complete. Visitors require all of the right hiking equipment and enough experience before they can even get near the area.
What makes this trail so dangerous is its remote location, rough terrain, and maze-like surroundings. Even the most seasoned hikers have trouble getting through ‘The Maze’ without getting lost. You won’t be able to use your GPS to find your way out of this one!
Kauai, Hawaii
The gorgeous island of Kauai, Hawaii offers picturesque views of tropical rainforests and dramatic cliffs. It’s these reasons that tourists come from all over the world to spend time on the island, but not all of them get to leave. The waters off the coasts of Kauai are known for its strong currents and dangerous riptides, leading to many deaths over the years.
While tourists are strongly advised to stay out of the water, they don’t always listen or understand the warning signs. Large waves can easily sweep someone out to sea or even send them hurling towards nearby rocks. The ocean’s unpredictable ways have led to many injuries and deaths, discouraging even local swimmers from taking the risk.
Golden Gate National Recreation Area, San Francisco
The Golden Gate National Recreation Area is a popular park in San Francisco, boasting views of the Golden Gate Bridge. It’s a popular spot for locals and tourists, as on top of offering spectacular views, it’s a great location for swimming, sunbathing, fishing and more. What makes the area so dangerous are the tumultuous currents and strong rip tides.
Visitors don’t expect the waters to be so rough, leading to an average of 85 deaths per year. Standing on nearby rocks doesn’t keep tourists safe either, as the waves are known to be large enough to sweep bystanders out to sea. In only takes a moment for things to turn deadly at the Golden Gate National Recreation Area park!
Times Square, New York
Crime in New York City has certainly decreased since the ‘80s, however, that doesn’t mean it’s a safe haven. Tourists especially are at risk when visiting the Big Apple, and no trip to New York is complete without a walk through Times Square. Unfortunately, predators know this and see this area of the city as easy pickings.
Tourists are most likely to be targeted by pickpockets and thieves, as they tend to walk around with a lot of cash and don’t know to keep their phones and electronics hidden. In 2019, crime rates spiked in New York City, as more murders, robberies, and assaults were reported. As long as you keep your eyes open and don’t parade your money around, visiting Times Square doesn’t have to be dangerous!
Hanakapiai Beach, Hawaii
Located on the Hawaiian island of Kauai, you can’t take a car to Hanakapi’ai Beach. Those who wish to go there must first take on the Kalalau trail, which is known for being dangerous all on its own. The beach can be found approximately two miles into the hike and offers little relaxation for those who make the journey.
The waters are known for being deadly, as the strong current and large waves make them impossible to maneuver. A sign cautioning tourists to stay out of the waters indicates that over 80 people have lost their lives taking a dip in these waters, yet people continue to take the risk time and time again. Of those who have drowned at Hanakapi’ai Beach, 15 were never recovered.