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The Adrenaline Junkie Guide to Facing Your Fears

We all know that one guy. You know, the guy who’s determined to prove that they can defy death through the most extreme measures imaginable. And maybe that one guy is you. If your mission is to prove that you can kick death’s door down without kicking the bucket, these thrilling adventures belong on your bucket list. You’re guaranteed the adrenaline rush of your life as you face your biggest fears with these death-defying experiences in the United States.

Alt Text: Two people leaning back in a harness system high above New York City.

New York City, New York

Embark on an adventure that Ethan Hunt would be proud of and scale a 1,200-foot skyscraper. If you’re looking to prove that this mission isn’t all that impossible, you can book your very own spy adventure with City Climb today. The most hardcore adrenaline junkies can even lean backward at the highest point of the climb to test exactly how brave they are.

Alt Text: A long skybridge over a forested mountain.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Seven hundred feet doesn’t seem very far—until you’re suspended over a deep valley without solid ground beneath your feet. If heights are your worst fear, the sky bridge may be just the jolt you need. In the center of the bridge, you’ll find a stretch of glass that you’ll have to cross if you want to reach the other side. This thrill is sure to amaze if you’re looking for a friendly shove out of your comfort zone.

Alt Text: An Alaskan glacier.

Chickaloon, Alaska

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to rock climb while wearing a massive puffer coat and wielding an ice pick, then your first stop should be MICA Guides. There’s a guided tour package for all different levels of comfort, skill, and willingness to lean up against ice for hours at a time. You’re sure to impress any party guest, friend, or family member when you tell them that you’ve successfully scaled even a portion of the 3,350-foot-tall Matanuska Glacier.

Alt Text: Stalactites in a cave.

Hot Springs, South Dakota

Spelunking, or cave exploration, may sound like a lighthearted experience, but there’s nothing lighthearted about the spelunking experience at Wind Caves National Park. Dive deep into the dark, damp caves for an adrenaline rush that you’ll never forget. Here, you’ll navigate the labyrinth of the vast cave system, encounter cave-dwelling creatures, challenge your fear of tight spaces, and discover the seemingly supernatural movement of wind unique to these caves.

Alt Text: A behind shot of a scuba diver looking towards the surface of the water.

High Springs, Florida

Have you ever been somewhere so dangerous that only tour guides are allowed to carry a light? The visitors of the Devil Springs sure have. In this pellucid, underwater cave, scuba divers aren’t even allowed to carry a light on their person. Why? Flashlights enable divers to wander off on their own—a decision that can prove perilous. Despite the danger, this thrill is more than worth it when you see the beautiful view at the base of the cavern. Can you handle the pressure?