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4C National Recreation Trail vs Trans-Catalina 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 Trans-Catalina Trail
Distance 20 mi32 km 41 mi66 km
Elevation gain 581 ft177 m 6,250 ft1,905 m
Typical duration 2 days 3 days
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: April, May, June, July, August, October
map Route & GPX map Route & GPX

4C National Recreation Trail vs Trans-Catalina Trail: which should you hike?

At 41 mi66 km, Trans-Catalina Trail is the longer route — roughly 21 mi34 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.