The 20 Most Challenging Hikes in America, Ranked

2.Lakina Packraft Traverse, Wrangell—St. Elias National Park, Alaska

Difficulty: Class 5

For an adventure that combines hiking with packrafting, the Lakina Packraft Traverse is a unique and thrilling challenge. This expedition takes you through one of Alaska's most remote and pristine wilderness areas, offering awe-inspiring views of glaciers, lakes, and wildlife, including brown bears. The journey involves both river paddling and challenging overland trekking, making it a demanding and rewarding feat.

Due to the complexity of the route, a guide is highly recommended unless you are an experienced packrafter. Put-in at Fosse Airstrip, best done from mid-August to mid-September with the assistance of guides like Kennicott Wilderness Guides. No permit is required.