HomeTrails4C National Recreation Trail vs Arizona Trail

4C National Recreation Trail vs Arizona Trail

A side-by-side look at distance, elevation, difficulty and the best time to hike each — so you can pick the right route.

Units
4C National Recreation Trail Arizona Trail
Distance 20 mi32 km 767 mi1,234 km
Elevation gain 581 ft177 m 36,148 ft11,018 m
Typical duration 2 days 49 days
Difficulty
Route type Point-to-point Point-to-point
Network Regional National
Country United States United States
Best time to hike Best months: February, October, November, December Best from December to December
map Route & GPX map Route & GPX

4C National Recreation Trail vs Arizona Trail: which should you hike?

At 767 mi1,234 km, Arizona Trail is the longer route — roughly 747 mi1,202 km more than 4C National Recreation Trail (20 mi32 km). If you want the bigger challenge or a longer trip, that's the one; for a shorter or first multi-day hike, 4C National Recreation Trail is the gentler pick. Check the elevation and best-season rows above, then open each route for the full guide and a free GPX download.