HomeTrailsArizona Trail vs Continental Divide National Scenic Trail

Arizona Trail vs Continental Divide National Scenic 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
Arizona Trail Continental Divide National Scenic Trail
Distance 767 mi1,234 km 3,099 mi4,988 km
Elevation gain 45,210 ft13,780 m 73,035 ft22,261 m
Typical duration
Difficulty
Route type Point-to-point Point-to-point
Network National National
Country United States United States
Best time to hike Best from December to December Best months: June, July, September
map Route & GPX map Route & GPX

Arizona Trail vs Continental Divide National Scenic Trail: which should you hike?

At 3,099 mi4,988 km, Continental Divide National Scenic Trail is the longer route — roughly 2,333 mi3,754 km more than Arizona Trail (767 mi1,234 km). If you want the bigger challenge or a longer trip, that's the one; for a shorter or first multi-day hike, Arizona 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.