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Meet North America's New Triple Crown of Hiking

  • Writer: Julia Labedz
    Julia Labedz
  • 11 hours ago
  • 2 min read

Think you've conquered the classic hiking trails in the US? Well, get ready - because there’s a new power trio in town. Say hello to the Pacific Northwest Trail, Mountains-to-Sea Trail, and the Great Divide Trail, the fresh faces of long-distance hiking that are shaking up North America's hiking scene.


Pacific Northwest Trail (PNT)


Start: Glacier National Park, Montana

End: Olympic National Park, Washington

Distance: ~1,200 miles

Website: pnt.org


Fancy walking from snowy mountain peaks all the way to the Pacific coast, all while passing through some of the most stunning wilderness in the U.S.? The Pacific Northwest Trail is a choose-your-own-adventure for the modern explorer.



What’s On the Trail?

  • Three national parks (Glacier, North Cascades, and Olympic) – so much to see!

  • Terrain full of dense forests, meadows, and ridgelines.

  • Perfect for hikers looking for some quiet - this trail is off-the-beaten-path.

  • Wildlife sightings: moose, mountain goats, maybe even Bigfoot.


Things to Know:

  • The PNT is still a bit of a wild child. Expect some road walks and minimal signage.

  • Permits are needed for national park sections.

  • Resupply towns are dotted along the way, but pack smart.


Mountains-to-Sea Trail (MST)


Start: Clingmans Dome, Great Smoky Mountains 

End: Jockey’s Ridge, Outer Banks 

Distance: ~1,175 miles 


If you’ve ever wanted to walk across an entire state North Carolina’s got the perfect trail for you. The MST covers everything Southern, from Appalachian culture to the Atlantic coastline.



Trail Highlights:

  • Explore the Smokies and the Blue Ridge Parkway.

  • Hike through small towns, cities, and even vineyards.

  • Optional paddling sections.

  • Finish your trek on the Outer Banks.


Good to Know:

  • It’s split into 18 segments, making it ideal for section hikers.

  • Interactive maps and downloadable guides make trip planning a breeze.

  • Accommodations and resupply options are generally more accessible than more remote trails.


Great Divide Trail (GDT)


Start: Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta 

End: Kakwa Lake, British Columbia 

Distance: ~745 miles (1,200 km) 


Welcome to the true wilderness. The GDT is not for the faint of heart but if alpine passes, glacial valleys, and oh-wow-that’s-a-grizzly moments sound like your thing, this Canadian trail is perfect for you.



Expect:

  • Remote and gorgeous scenery through the Canadian Rockies.

  • Off-the-grid trekking - some parts aren’t even officially maintained.

  • Plenty of different wildlife.

  • Snow in July? Possibly…


Be Prepared:

  • This trail is serious business. You need good navigational skills and should be prepared for big-mile days between resupplies.

  • You’ll need multiple permits for parks and protected areas.

  • The GDT is still evolving, so expect changes on the route. Volunteer crews are maintaining the trail each season. 


When to Go and What It'll Cost You


Best Hiking Season:

  • PNT & MST: Mid-June to September

  • GDT: Late June to early September (snow loves to stick around)


Cost Breakdown:

  • Permits: Generally under $100 total, depending on how many parks you cross.

  • Gear: Budget around $1,000–$2,000 for ultralight gear if you're going long.

  • Food & Resupply: Expect $10–$15/day on trail food + transport to/from trailheads.


GPS loaded? Let’s get hiking.


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