HomeTrailsMount Marcy Trail vs North Kaibab Trail

Mount Marcy Trail vs North Kaibab 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
Mount Marcy Trail North Kaibab Trail
Distance 4.1 mi7 km 13.0 mi21 km
Elevation gain 2,569 ft783 m 2,287 ft697 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, December
map Route & GPX map Route & GPX

Mount Marcy Trail vs North Kaibab Trail: which should you hike?

At 13.0 mi21 km, North Kaibab Trail is the longer route — roughly 8.8 mi14 km more than Mount Marcy Trail (4.1 mi7 km). If you want the bigger challenge or a longer trip, that's the one; for a shorter or first multi-day hike, Mount Marcy 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.