HomeTrailsBlue Lake Ridge Trail #271 vs Continental Divide National Scenic Trail

Blue Lake Ridge Trail #271 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
Blue Lake Ridge Trail #271 Continental Divide National Scenic Trail
Distance 7.6 mi12 km 2,923 mi4,705 km
Elevation gain 2,897 ft883 m 44,032 ft13,421 m
Typical duration 1 day 178 days
Difficulty
Route type Point-to-point Point-to-point
Network Regional National
Country United States United States
Best time to hike Best from July to July Best months: June, July, September
map Route & GPX map Route & GPX

Blue Lake Ridge Trail #271 vs Continental Divide National Scenic Trail: which should you hike?

At 2,923 mi4,705 km, Continental Divide National Scenic Trail is the longer route — roughly 2,916 mi4,692 km more than Blue Lake Ridge Trail #271 (7.6 mi12 km). If you want the bigger challenge or a longer trip, that's the one; for a shorter or first multi-day hike, Blue Lake Ridge Trail #271 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.