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Continental Divide National Scenic Trail vs Placid Lake Trail #29

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

Units
Continental Divide National Scenic Trail Placid Lake Trail #29
Distance 2,923 mi4,705 km 2.9 mi5 km
Elevation gain 44,032 ft13,421 m 1,050 ft320 m
Typical duration 178 days 1 day
Difficulty — —
Route type Point-to-point Point-to-point
Network National Regional
Country United States United States
Best time to hike Best months: June, July, September Best months: July, September
map Route & GPX map Route & GPX

Continental Divide National Scenic Trail vs Placid Lake Trail #29: which should you hike?

At 2,923 mi4,705 km, Continental Divide National Scenic Trail is the longer route — roughly 2,920 mi4,700 km more than Placid Lake Trail #29 (2.9 mi5 km). If you want the bigger challenge or a longer trip, that's the one; for a shorter or first multi-day hike, Placid Lake Trail #29 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.