Death by Day HIke - Tongariro Crossing

Every year there is controversy as the Mt. Everest climbing season results in several deaths. Climbers without enough experience or skills pay tens of thousands of dollars to tick it off their must-do list and they end up paying the ultimate price.

But what about the less obviously dangerous adventures? Who would be afraid of losing their life on one of the world's most popular day hikes?

The Tongariro Crossing is New Zealand's premier day hike. It is undertaken by some 60,000 people per year, from all over the planet. It's recommended by all of the guide books and glossy brochures.

The endless stream of hikers on the Tongariro Crossing over Easter.

Many people jump to the conclusion that something this popular and well-advertised must be safe. But any hike in an alpine environment carries risks, and the Tongariro Crossing has claimed a number of lives.

The Tongariro Crossing on a spring weekend. You just never know!

Last year, one couple brought inadequate layers of clothing for the bad conditions that closed in during their hike. (This is very common, with people trying to carry as little as possible for the 17 kilometre walk, and often wearing just a t-shirt and shorts.) When fog rolled in they got lost and disoriented. The seven-hour hike became an endless nightmare as darkness fell. They sheltered behind a rock, but the woman died from hypothermia before rescuers found them at 2am.

As outdoor adventures become more and more popular among vacationers, there is a risk that those without any outdoor experience will find themselves alone in the wilderness without the right gear or clothing. It may look good in the glossy brochure, but the environment has a mind of its own, and it doesn't care if you're just enjoying a nice vacation.

I'm glad that hiking is becoming more popular, but I wish that people would understand that walking over a mountain (or volcano) is not the same as walking around their home town. It doesn't have to be Mt. Everest to be dangerous for the unprepared.

Be prepared, and enjoy the view!