What Trails Are Part of the Triple Crown of Hiking?

The Triple Crown of Hiking is a collective term for three of the most popular, and arguably most rewarding, long-distance hikes in the United States. These three trails are the Appalachian Trail (AT), the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) and the Continental Divide Trail (CDT).

All three trails are more than 2,000 miles long and traverse some of the most beautiful and remote areas in North America.

The Appalachian Trail is perhaps the best known of these three trails. This trail starts in Maine and winds its way through 14 states before ending in Georgia.

Along its route, it passes through vast national forests, rolling hills, rugged mountains and meandering rivers. The entire journey typically takes 5 to 7 months to complete.

The Pacific Crest Trail is often times considered a more challenging endeavor than AT. It stretches from Mexico to Canada through California, Oregon and Washington State.

This trail passes through some of the most diverse landscapes in North America including deserts, alpine forests, high mountain passes, snow-covered peaks and ancient volcanic fields.

The Continental Divide Trail is one of the longest and least traveled trails in North America. It follows along the Continental Divide for 3100 miles from Mexico to Canada across New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming, Idaho and Montana. Along its route it passes through alpine meadows, high mountain passes and deep canyons as well as some of the most remote regions of America’s Rocky Mountains.

Conclusion:

Hikers looking for an unforgettable adventure should consider undertaking one or all three of these amazing trails that make up the Triple Crown of Hiking: The Appalachian Trail (AT), The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) and The Continental Divide Trail (CDT). All three trails offer stunning scenery as well as an opportunity to challenge yourself mentally and physically while discovering some of North America’s most beautiful wilderness areas.