HomeTrailsRae Lakes Loop vs Tuscarora Trail

Rae Lakes Loop vs Tuscarora 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
Rae Lakes Loop Tuscarora Trail
Distance 37 mi60 km 252 mi406 km
Elevation gain 6,969 ft2,124 m 17,110 ft5,215 m
Typical duration
Difficulty
Route type Loop Point-to-point
Network Regional Regional
Country United States United States
Best time to hike Best from June to August Best from October to November
map Route & GPX map Route & GPX

Rae Lakes Loop vs Tuscarora Trail: which should you hike?

At 252 mi406 km, Tuscarora Trail is the longer route — roughly 215 mi346 km more than Rae Lakes Loop (37 mi60 km). If you want the bigger challenge or a longer trip, that's the one; for a shorter or first multi-day hike, Rae Lakes Loop 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.