HomeTrails4C National Recreation Trail vs Maple Pass Loop Trail

4C National Recreation Trail vs Maple Pass Loop 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 Maple Pass Loop Trail
Distance 20 mi32 km 1.7 mi3 km
Elevation gain 581 ft177 m 62 ft19 m
Typical duration 2 days 1 day
Difficulty
Route type Point-to-point Point-to-point
Network Regional Local
Country United States United States
Best time to hike Best months: February, October, November, December Best months: July, September
map Route & GPX map Route & GPX

4C National Recreation Trail vs Maple Pass Loop Trail: which should you hike?

At 20 mi32 km, 4C National Recreation Trail is the longer route — roughly 18 mi29 km more than Maple Pass Loop Trail (1.7 mi3 km). If you want the bigger challenge or a longer trip, that's the one; for a shorter or first multi-day hike, Maple Pass Loop 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.