HomeTrailsFranconia Ridge Trail vs Trans-Catalina Trail

Franconia Ridge 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
Franconia Ridge Trail Trans-Catalina Trail
Distance 4.5 mi7 km 41 mi65 km
Elevation gain 1,939 ft591 m 6,601 ft2,012 m
Typical duration
Difficulty
Route type Point-to-point Point-to-point
Network Local Local
Country United States United States
Best time to hike Best from September to September Best months: April, May, June, July, August, October
map Route & GPX map Route & GPX

Franconia Ridge Trail vs Trans-Catalina Trail: which should you hike?

At 41 mi65 km, Trans-Catalina Trail is the longer route — roughly 36 mi58 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.