Is the Appalachian Trail harder than the PCT?

Of the hikers I spoke with, those who have thru-hiked both trails seem to agree that the PCT is physically easier despite the higher mileage days. They also agreed that the PCT is more mentally taxing than the AT.



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The trail lacks switchbacks making the climbing quite difficult at times. The elevation gain/loss is almost 100,000' more than the PCT. The PCT was designed and built so one could use pack animals on it. As a result the trail has a much easier grade and meanders up/around climbs.

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The PCT is harder logistically than the AT which has ample trail towns or a water supply nearly every five to eight miles. In the PCT desert, water is scarce. You need to fill up at water caches and carry more water through long, waterless stretches of the desert.

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The Continental Divide Trail Considered by many to be the most challenging and remote of the Triple Crown trails, the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail is a 3000+ mile adventure from Mexico to Canada, traveling through five western states.

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The Pacific Crest Trail Association estimates that 700 to 800 people attempt to thru-hike it each year, and about 15% to 35% (versus the AT's 25%) actually succeed.

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1. Southern Maine. For hikers heading north, hitting Maine is a significant milestone, and they are rewarded with this section that's arguably the most challenging on the trail.

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1. Southern Maine. For hikers heading north, hitting Maine is a significant milestone, and they are rewarded with this section that's arguably the most challenging on the trail.

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The climb out of Hauser Canyon is cited by many hikers as one of the hardest sections of the PCT because it is typically the first day. It is common not make the 20 miles in one day, be prepared with a tent as Hauser Canyon is a popular backcountry camping spot.

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Extreme Temperatures. Weather on the PCT can range from extreme heat to extreme cold, even on the same day. The desert can get upwards of 100 degrees during the day and below freezing at night. Don't let the snow fool ya in the Sierra, it can get pretty dang hot there too.

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Start Date for Northbounders:
  • If you're going northbound, the optimal start date is mid-March to early April. ...
  • To avoid crowds, start between April 15 and the first week of May. ...
  • You also have the option of beginning in February, but this is only recommended for experienced hikers due to severely snowy weather.


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6 Mistakes to Avoid on the Appalachian Trail from a Backpacking Guide
  • Being a Litterbug. Trash along the AT in New York before being packed out by a 2023 thru-hiker. ...
  • Storing Food Improperly. ...
  • Not Respecting Wildlife. ...
  • Feeling Entitled Just Because You Walked There. ...
  • Pushing Past Your Limits. ...
  • Not Stopping to Smell the Roses.


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