HomeTrailsFranconia Ridge Trail vs Mid-State Trail

Franconia Ridge Trail vs Mid-State 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
Franconia Ridge Trail Mid-State Trail
Distance 4.5 mi7 km 319 mi513 km
Elevation gain 1,939 ft591 m 21,493 ft6,551 m
Typical duration
Difficulty
Route type Point-to-point Point-to-point
Network Local Regional
Country United States United States
Best time to hike Best from September to September Best from October to October
map Route & GPX map Route & GPX

Franconia Ridge Trail vs Mid-State Trail: which should you hike?

At 319 mi513 km, Mid-State Trail is the longer route — roughly 314 mi506 km more than Franconia Ridge Trail (4.5 mi7 km). If you want the bigger challenge or a longer trip, that's the one; for a shorter or first multi-day hike, Franconia Ridge 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.