what is the longest hiking trail in North America?
North America boasts numerous breathtaking hiking trails for avid hikers seeking unforgettable adventures. Here are the 10 longest ones, perfect for those who love a challenge.
North America has some amazing long-distance hiking trails that offer unforgettable experiences. Two popular ones are:
- The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT): It’s about 2,650 miles long, running from Mexico to Canada through California, Oregon, and Washington. Hikers encounter deserts, mountains, and forests along the way.
- The Appalachian Trail (AT): This historic trail spans approximately 2,190 miles across 14 states from Georgia to Maine. It’s famous for its stunning landscapes and attracts millions of hikers each year.
There are more exciting trails like the Continental Divide Trail (CDT) and the North Country National Scenic Trail (NCT). Embarking on any of these adventures lets you discover the beauty of North America’s wilderness while experiencing personal growth.
what are the longest hiking trails in North America?
- Pacific Crest Trail (PCT):
- Location: Mexico to Canada, through California, Oregon, and Washington.
- Length: About 2,650 miles.
- Difficulty: Challenging with varying terrain and weather.
- Established: Concept in the 1920s, officially completed in 1993.
- Appalachian Trail (AT):
- Location: Georgia to Maine in the eastern U.S.
- Length: About 2,190 miles.
- Difficulty: Challenging with rocky terrain.
- Established: Idea in 1921, completed in 1937.
- Continental Divide Trail (CDT):
- Location: Along the Rocky Mountains, from Mexico to Canada.
- Length: Approximately 3,100 miles.
- Difficulty: Extremely challenging with remote wilderness.
- Established: Concept in the 1970s, designated in 1978.
- North Country National Scenic Trail (NCT):
- Location: New York to North Dakota, crossing seven states.
- Length: About 4,600 miles.
- Difficulty: Moderately challenging with diverse terrain.
- Established: Concept in the 1960s, designated in 1980.
- Great Western Loop:
- Location: A loop through the western U.S., comprising multiple trails.
- Length: Approximately 6,875 miles.
- Difficulty: Varies based on trail sections.
- Established: Not officially designated as a single trail.
- American Discovery Trail (ADT):
- Location: Coast-to-coast from California to Delaware.
- Length: About 6,800 miles.
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging with diverse terrain.
- Established: Idea in the 1980s, officially established in 2000.
- Pacific Northwest Trail (PNT):
- Location: Montana to Washington in the northern states.
- Length: About 1,200 miles.
- Difficulty: Moderately challenging with remote sections.
- Established: Concept in the 1970s, designated in 2009.
- Sierra High Route:
- Location: Through California’s Sierra Nevada mountains.
- Length: A challenging 195-mile path.
- Difficulty: Extremely challenging for experienced hikers.
- Established: Not an official trial, popularized in the 1970s.
- Arizona Trail:
- Location: Mexico to Utah, showcasing Arizona’s diverse landscapes.
- Length: Approximately 800 miles.
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging with diverse terrain.
- Established: Concept in the 1980s, completed in 2011.
- Colorado Trail:
- Location: Through the Colorado Rocky Mountains from Denver to Durango.
- Length: Approximately 486 miles.
- Difficulty: Moderately challenging with high elevation.
- Established: Concept in the 1970s, completed in 1987.
These long trails offer diverse experiences for hikers, showcasing the natural beauty of North America’s wilderness.