trek trail guide

The Transformative Trek: Your Complete Guide to Thru-Hiking

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Last Updated:

November 7, 2023

I live with my wife and daughter in Katy, Texas and my local trail is the Lone Star Hiking Trail which is an amazing way to experience the Sam Houston National Park!

Are you ready for the adventure of a lifetime?

Planning a thru-hike can be exhilarating and overwhelming, but fear not, this guide is here to help you every step of the way.

From choosing the right trail to managing your home-life logistics, we’ll delve into the essential aspects of planning for a thru-hike.

Grab your backpack, lace up your hiking boots, and let’s embark on this extraordinary adventure together.

The Call of the Trail: Choosing Your Thru-Hike

When choosing the right trail for your thru-hike, consider the length and location of the trail you’re interested in. Trail length considerations are important because they’ll determine the amount of time and physical endurance required for your hike.

Popular thru hike choices include the Appalachian Trail, Continental Divide Trail, and Pacific Crest Trail, each offering unique challenges and experiences. Transportation arrangements are another factor to consider, as you’ll need to plan how to get to the trailhead and back home after your hike.

Additionally, gear weight guidelines should be followed to ensure a comfortable and manageable hike. Lastly, resupply options should be considered, such as mailing food boxes to specific locations or using grocery stores along the trail for convenient resupply stops.

Navigating Your Path: Mastering Trail Tools

To navigate the trail effectively, you’ll need reliable trail navigation tools. Trail guide apps, such as Guthook, are a popular choice among thru-hikers. These apps track your location, offer detailed waypoints, and provide user comments for valuable trail information.

GPS devices are another option for navigation, allowing you to pinpoint your exact location and track your progress.

Paper maps are a traditional but reliable tool that can help you plan your route and navigate in case of technology failure.

Additionally, compass navigation skills are essential for orienting yourself in the wilderness. Trail markers, such as blazes or cairns, are also crucial for staying on the right path.

Transportation to the Trailhead

When it comes to getting to the trailhead for your thru-hike, you have a few options to consider.

One option is to rely on shuttle services, which are often available in popular hiking areas and can provide convenient transportation to the trailhead.

Another option is to explore public transportation options, such as buses or trains, which may have routes that take you close to the trailhead.

Lastly, you can also consider reaching out to friends or fellow hikers who may be able to provide a ride to the trailhead.

Planning ahead and exploring these transportation options can help ensure a smooth start to your thru-hike adventure.

Shuttle Services or Friends

Consider utilizing shuttle services or relying on friends for convenient transportation to the trailhead. Shuttle services offer several benefits, including reliable and timely transportation, eliminating the need to rely on friends’ availability. They provide a dedicated service specifically for hikers, ensuring that you reach the trailhead without any hassle.

However, if shuttle services aren’t available or are too expensive, relying on friends can be a viable alternative. It’s important to consider the pros and cons of relying on friends for transportation, such as their availability, reliability, and willingness to accommodate your schedule.

Additionally, comparing different transportation options, including public transportation or renting a car, can help you make an informed decision. Ultimately, the availability and convenience of shuttle services should be weighed against the reliability and flexibility of relying on friends or other transportation alternatives.

Public Transportation Options

If you frequently rely on public transportation, you can easily access the trailhead for your thru-hike. Public transportation options vary depending on the location of the trail, but there are often buses, trains, or shuttles that can get you close to the trailhead.

Before your hike, research the available public transportation options in the area and plan your route accordingly. It’s also important to consider the gear you’ll be carrying on your hike. Choose lightweight and compact gear that’s easy to transport on public transportation.

Additionally, when planning your resupply stops, consider the proximity of grocery stores or other locations where you can easily restock your supplies. Lastly, manage your finances while hiking by budgeting for transportation costs and setting aside enough money for unexpected expenses.

Gear Weight and Budgeting

When planning for your thru-hike, it’s important to consider gear weight and budgeting. Choosing the right gear is crucial to ensure a comfortable and successful journey, so take the time to research and select items that are lightweight and durable.

Additionally, budgeting for your equipment is essential to avoid overspending and ensure you have the necessary funds for other aspects of your hike. Look for affordable options, consider borrowing gear from friends, and prioritize essential items to make the most of your budget.

Gear Selection Tips

When it comes to thru-hiking, choosing the right gear is crucial to your comfort, safety, and overall enjoyment on the trail.

In this section, we’ll discuss some important factors to consider when selecting your gear, including weight-saving strategies, finding a balance between quality and affordability, and making sure the gear you choose is suitable for your specific needs and preferences.

Choosing the Right Gear For You

Choosing the right gear for your thru-hike requires careful consideration of gear weight and budgeting. Here are some gear selection tips to help you prioritize essential gear, balance weight vs functionality, find budget-friendly options, and manage your finances while hiking.

• Prioritize essential gear: Focus on the items that are crucial for your safety and comfort, such as a backpack, sleep system, and shelter.
• Balance weight vs functionality: Look for gear that’s lightweight but still serves its purpose effectively. Consider the trade-offs between weight savings and the functionality you need on the trail.
• Explore budget-friendly options: Keep an eye out for sales, second-hand gear stores, and borrowing from friends. You don’t have to break the bank to get quality gear.
• Manage your finances while hiking: Create a budget for your trip and track your expenses. Consider ways to save money, such as cooking your own meals instead of eating out. Being mindful of your spending will help you stay on track financially.

Weight-Saving Strategies

To save weight and stay on budget while planning for a thru-hike, prioritize essential gear and consider lightweight options. Gear weight saving is crucial to ensure a comfortable and manageable journey. When selecting gear, take into account its weight and durability.

Resupply timing and planning is also vital to avoid carrying excessive amounts of food and supplies. Consider home life logistics, such as subletting and decluttering, to ease the transition.

Financial planning is essential to ensure a successful and affordable thru-hike.

Quality Vs. Affordability

To make informed decisions about gear selection, prioritize quality over affordability for a comfortable and successful thru-hike. Here are some gear selection tips to help you find the right balance between quality and affordability:

• Research and compare different gear options to find the best value for your budget.
• Consider weight saving strategies, such as choosing lightweight materials and multipurpose gear.
• Plan your resupply points and options in advance to manage your finances while hiking.
• Don’t skimp on essential items like a reliable backpack, sleep system, and shelter – invest in quality gear that will last throughout your journey.

Budgeting for Equipment

When budgeting for your thru-hiking equipment, consider the weight of your gear and the impact it will have on your overall budget. Gear budgeting is a crucial aspect of preparing for a long-distance hike.

While it’s tempting to go for the most affordable options, it’s important to find a balance between quality and affordability. Weight saving strategies can help you lighten your load and make your journey more enjoyable.

Focus on essential gear items such as your backpack, sleep system, and shelter. Look for sales, second-hand gear stores, and consider borrowing from friends to save money.

Finding Affordable Options

• Affordable gear options: Look for sales, second-hand gear stores, and borrowing from friends to keep your pack weight and costs down. Focus your budget on essential items like a backpack, sleep system, and shelter.
• Budget-friendly resupply strategies: Plan your resupply points considering dietary needs and transportation limitations. Utilize grocery stores for convenient resupply stops and consider asking for care packages from family and friends. You can also save money by mailing food boxes to specific locations as general delivery.
• . Keep track of your expenses and stick to a budget to ensure your funds last throughout your journey.

Prioritizing Essential Gear

When it comes to thru-hiking, prioritizing essential gear is crucial for a successful and enjoyable journey.

You need to consider must-have gear items, strike a balance between weight and functionality, and explore budget-friendly options.

Must-Have Gear Items

To prioritize essential gear while planning for a thru-hike, it’s important to consider the weight and budget by making informed choices. Here are four must-have gear items to consider:

• Gear maintenance : Bring repair tools and supplies to fix gear on the trail.
• Lightweight clothing : Invest in lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing to stay comfortable and dry.
• Water filtration options : Choose a reliable water filtration system to ensure safe drinking water.

Weight Vs Functionality

Consider the trade-off between weight and functionality when prioritizing essential gear for your thru-hike. It’s important to carefully select gear that is both lightweight and functional to ensure a successful and enjoyable journey. When choosing the trail, consider using trail navigation tools like the Guthook smartphone app. Transportation options such as shuttle services can make getting to and from the trailhead easier. Plan your resupply points and food options ahead of time. Don’t forget to consider home life logistics and stay motivated throughout your thru-hike.

Budget-Friendly Options

To prioritize essential gear for your thru-hike while keeping your budget in mind, focus on finding budget-friendly options that still maintain a lightweight and functional design. Here are four strategies to help you minimize expenses while thru hiking:

• Look for budget-friendly gear options: Consider purchasing gear from second-hand gear stores, borrowing from friends, or taking advantage of sales to find affordable options.
• Implement affordable resupply strategies: Plan your resupply points strategically, considering both dietary needs and transportation limitations. Utilize grocery stores for convenient resupply stops and consider asking for care packages from friends and family.
• Manage your finances on the trail: Keep track of your expenses and create a budget to ensure you stay on track. Look for ways to cut costs, such as cooking your own meals instead of eating out or sharing accommodations with other hikers.
• Find cheap transportation: Explore affordable transportation options to and from the trailhead, such as public transportation or shuttle services. Consider carpooling or splitting costs with other hikers to minimize transportation expenses.

Fuel for the Journey: Planning Your Resupply

Now that you have your gear and budget in order, it’s time to start planning your resupply strategy.

Resupply points and timing are crucial to ensure you have enough food and supplies for your entire hike.

Consider whether you want to mail food boxes to specific locations or rely on grocery stores along the trail.

It’s also important to take into account any dietary needs or medications you may have when planning your resupply options.

Resupply Points and Timing

Creating a strategic plan for resupply points and timing is essential for a successful thru-hike. Here are four important factors to consider when planning your resupply:

• Resupply Timing: Determine how often you’ll need to resupply based on the distance between resupply points and your hiking pace. Consider the availability of resupply options and plan accordingly.
• Food Choices: Take into account your dietary needs and preferences when selecting food for your resupply. Balance calorie density, weight, and nutritional value to ensure you have enough energy for the trail.
• Itinerary Planning: Plan your resupply points based on your itinerary and the distance between them. Consider weather conditions, trail entrance quotas, and shuttle options when deciding where to send your resupply packages.
• Gear Selection: Evaluate your gear needs and consider the weight and space requirements for resupply. Choose lightweight and durable gear that suits the specific trail conditions.

Food Boxes Vs Grocery Stores

When planning your resupply points and options, consider the advantages and disadvantages of using food boxes versus grocery stores.

Food boxes offer several benefits, such as the ability to plan for specific dietary needs and preferences. By pre-packaging meals and snacks, you can ensure you have the necessary nutrients to sustain your energy levels on the trail.

Additionally, food boxes can be mailed to specific locations, allowing for more flexibility in resupply timing. However, it’s important to consider transportation limitations, as shipping food boxes may be more expensive or impractical in certain areas.

On the other hand, grocery stores provide convenience, allowing you to restock quickly and easily. They also offer a wider variety of food options, giving you more flexibility in your meal planning.

Ultimately, the decision between food boxes and grocery stores should be based on your personal preferences, dietary needs, and resupply timing considerations.

Consider Dietary Needs & Medications

To continue planning your resupply points and options, take into consideration your dietary needs and medications while considering the advantages and disadvantages of different resupply methods. Here are four key things to consider:

• Considering Allergies: If you have any dietary restrictions or allergies, plan your meals accordingly. Research and choose food options that meet your needs and are lightweight for backpacking. Look for dehydrated or freeze-dried meals that cater to specific dietary restrictions.
• Managing Medications: If you take medications regularly, make sure to plan for an adequate supply during your hike. Consider the duration of your hike and the availability of refills or shipments along the trail. It may be necessary to coordinate with your healthcare provider to ensure you have enough medication for the entire duration.
• Meal Planning for Dietary Restrictions: If you have specific dietary restrictions, such as being vegetarian or vegan, plan your meals accordingly. Look for lightweight cookware options that can accommodate your dietary needs. Consider using dehydrated or freeze-dried ingredients to create meals that meet your restrictions.
• Choosing the Right Footwear: Proper footwear is essential for a successful thru-hike. Consider the terrain you’ll be hiking on and choose footwear that provides support, comfort, and durability. Make sure to break in your shoes before hitting the trail to prevent blisters and foot discomfort.

The Logistics of Adventure: Managing Home Life

Now that you’ve made the decision to embark on a thru-hike, it’s important to consider the logistics of managing your home life while you’re on the trail.

This includes handling bills and responsibilities, finding options for subletting and car parking, and decluttering and selling your possessions.

It’s also crucial to reflect on your personal motivation and set goals for yourself during the hike.

Additionally, managing your finances while you’re on the trail is a key aspect of home-life logistics that requires careful planning and budgeting.

Bills and Responsibilities

To successfully manage your bills and responsibilities while thru-hiking, it’s essential to plan ahead and make necessary arrangements. Balancing home life logistics with the demands of the trail can be challenging, but with careful preparation, you can minimize stress and focus on your adventure. Here are four tips to help you navigate the financial challenges and solutions of managing bills and responsibilities:

• Set up automatic payments: Before you embark on your thru-hike, arrange for automatic payments for your bills. This ensures that your payments will be made on time, even if you’re on the trail.
• Simplify your finances: Consider consolidating your accounts and minimizing your financial obligations. This could involve closing unnecessary accounts, reducing credit card balances, and streamlining your expenses.
• Create a budget: Develop a budget that takes into account your expected income, expenses, and savings goals while on the trail. This will help you stay on track financially and make informed decisions about your spending.
• Communicate with your creditors: Inform your creditors about your thru-hiking plans and discuss any potential payment arrangements or deferments. Many companies are understanding and willing to work with you to accommodate your unique situation.

Subletting and Car Parking

When preparing for a thru-hike, it’s important to make arrangements for subletting your home and securing parking for your car. Subletting your home can help offset the cost of your hike and ensure that your property is taken care of while you’re away. Look for reliable tenants who are willing to sign a lease agreement and take care of any necessary maintenance.

As for car parking, consider long-term parking options such as airport parking lots or storage facilities. Make sure to choose a secure location and check if there are any restrictions or additional fees.

Additionally, when it comes to gear weight, consider investing in lightweight hiking shoes to reduce strain on your feet. Plan your food carefully, opting for calorie-dense and lightweight options to keep your pack weight manageable.

Decluttering and Selling Possessions

When preparing for a thru-hike, it’s essential to declutter your possessions and consider selling items as part of managing your home-life logistics. Embracing a minimalist lifestyle will help you streamline your belongings and make the downsizing process easier.

Here are some decluttering tips and strategies to help you organize your belongings and sell possessions:

• Start early: Begin decluttering well in advance of your hike to allow ample time for sorting through your belongings and deciding what to keep, sell, or donate.
• Categorize your possessions: Divide your belongings into categories such as clothing, gear, electronics, and sentimental items. This will help you prioritize what to keep and what to let go of.
• Sell online: Utilize online platforms like eBay, Craigslist, or Facebook Marketplace to sell your possessions. Take clear photos, provide accurate descriptions, and set reasonable prices to attract potential buyers.
• Donate or recycle: For items that you can’t sell, consider donating them to charity or recycling them responsibly. This will ensure that your possessions find new homes and minimize waste.

Personal Motivation and Goals

As you manage your home-life logistics and prepare for your thru-hike, it’s important to stay connected to your personal motivation and goals. Setting clear goals will help keep you focused and motivated throughout the journey.

Embrace the challenges that come your way, as they’ll provide opportunities for personal growth and self-discovery. When you encounter obstacles, remember to find motivation from within and tap into your determination to overcome them.

Thru-hiking isn’t just about completing a trail; it’s about pushing yourself beyond your limits and discovering what you’re truly capable of. It’s a transformative experience that will test your physical and mental strength, but the rewards are immeasurable.

Stay connected to your personal motivation and goals, and embrace the journey ahead with open arms.

Managing Finances While Hiking

To effectively manage your finances while hiking and juggling home-life logistics, it’s essential to prioritize budgeting and planning ahead. Here are four key tips to help you manage your finances while on a thru-hike:

• Planning itinerary: Before setting off on your hike, create a detailed itinerary that outlines your expected mileage, resupply points, and estimated expenses. This will allow you to budget accordingly and make informed decisions about your spending along the trail.
• Resupply options: Research different resupply options along your chosen trail. Consider mailing food boxes to specific locations or utilizing grocery stores along the way. This will help you stay on budget and ensure you have enough food to sustain you throughout the hike.
• Gear selection: Carefully select your gear to strike a balance between quality and affordability. Look for sales, second-hand gear stores, or consider borrowing from friends to minimize costs. Remember, investing in durable gear will save you money in the long run.
• Balancing work: If you have work commitments, find ways to manage them while on the trail. Consider taking time off or negotiating a remote work arrangement. This will help you maintain a source of income and stay financially stable during your hike.

Balancing Home and Trail

To effectively manage the logistics of your home life while balancing your thru-hike, prioritize organization and planning ahead.

Balancing home responsibilities with your adventure on the trail can be challenging, but with the right strategies, it’s possible to maintain a smooth transition.

One key aspect is to establish a system for managing bills and responsibilities while you’re away. Consider options such as subletting your home, securing car parking, decluttering and selling possessions to minimize expenses and simplify your life.

Additionally, finding effective motivation strategies can help you stay focused and committed to your thru-hike goals.

When it comes to gear selection, choose lightweight and durable equipment that will withstand the demands of the trail. Implementing resupply strategies, such as mailing food boxes to specific locations and utilizing grocery stores along the route, will ensure a steady supply of provisions.

Finally, don’t forget about financial planning. Thru-hiking requires a significant financial commitment, so budgeting and saving ahead of time is essential.

Staying Motivated Along the Way

For success thru-hiking, it’s crucial to set personal goals and find motivation within yourself. Here are four key aspects to consider when it comes to personal motivation and goal setting:

• Setting goals : Clearly define what you want to achieve during your thru-hike. Whether it’s completing a specific trail or improving your physical fitness, having clear goals will give you direction and purpose.
• Overcoming obstacles : Thru-hiking isn’t without its challenges. Mentally prepare yourself to face obstacles such as difficult weather conditions, physical fatigue, and moments of self-doubt. Developing strategies to overcome these obstacles will help you stay focused and motivated.
• Building endurance : Thru-hiking requires a high level of endurance. Gradually increase your mileage and train your body to handle the demands of long-distance hiking. Incorporate regular exercise, hiking with a loaded pack, and cross-training activities to build your endurance.
• Staying motivated : Find ways to stay motivated throughout your journey. This could be through visual reminders of your goals, connecting with fellow hikers for support, or rewarding yourself for reaching milestones. Remember why you started and let that drive you to keep going.

Benefits and Inspirations of Thru-Hiking

Thru-hiking offers numerous benefits and inspirations that make it a transformative experience. It’s an opportunity for personal growth and self-reflection, allowing you to challenge yourself and discover new strengths.

Thru-hiking also improves physical fitness and endurance, providing a unique therapy for trauma and PTSD. Moreover, the unforgettable experiences and memories created along the trail make it an adventure of a lifetime.

Personal Growth and Self-Reflection

Embark on a thru-hike and discover the transformative power of personal growth and self-reflection. Thru-hiking offers a unique opportunity for personal growth and self-discovery. Here are four ways in which thru-hiking can inspire personal growth:

• Trail Solitude: Thru-hiking often involves long stretches of solitude on the trail. This solitude provides a chance for deep self-reflection and introspection, allowing you to gain a better understanding of yourself and your values.
• Mental Challenges: Thru-hiking presents mental challenges that test your resilience and determination. Overcoming these challenges builds mental strength and fosters personal growth. You learn to push through self-doubt and develop a positive mindset.
• Physical Endurance: Thru-hiking requires immense physical endurance. Pushing your body to its limits and achieving physical milestones instills a sense of accomplishment and boosts self-confidence. You learn to trust your body’s capabilities and appreciate its strength.
• Self-Discovery: Thru-hiking provides a unique environment for self-discovery. As you spend months on the trail, you have ample time to reflect on your life, values, and goals. You may discover new passions, perspectives, and insights about yourself, leading to personal growth and a deeper understanding of who you are.

Physical Fitness and Endurance

To increase your physical fitness and endurance, thru-hiking offers a challenging and rewarding experience. Training techniques are essential to prepare your body for the demands of long-distance hiking. Incorporate regular cardio exercises, such as hiking, walking, or running, to improve your endurance.

Strength training exercises, like squats and lunges, will build muscle and increase your overall strength. Nutrition plays a crucial role in sustaining your energy levels during a thru-hike. Opt for calorie-dense foods that are lightweight and easy to prepare on the trail.

Itinerary planning is essential to ensure a successful thru-hike. Consider the distance between resupply points and plan your food and gear accordingly. When selecting gear, prioritize lightweight and durable options.

Therapy for Trauma

During a thru-hike, you can find therapy for trauma and discover the benefits and inspirations that come from immersing yourself in the healing power of nature. Thru-hiking provides a unique opportunity for trauma therapy as it allows you to disconnect from the stressors of everyday life and focus on the present moment. Here are four ways thru-hiking can benefit and inspire you:

• Trauma therapy: Spending extended periods in nature can have a therapeutic effect on the mind and body, helping you process and heal from past traumas.
• Gear selection tips: Choosing the right gear for your thru-hike is essential. Research and invest in high-quality, lightweight gear to ensure comfort and minimize physical strain.
• Resupply planning: Proper resupply planning ensures you have enough food and essentials along the trail. Create a detailed plan, considering dietary needs and transportation limitations, to stay nourished and energized.
• Managing finances: Thru-hiking can be expensive, but with careful budgeting and research, you can manage your finances effectively. Consider ways to minimize expenses, such as buying second-hand gear or asking for care packages from friends and family.

Unforgettable Experiences

Thru-hiking offers hikers a multitude of unforgettable experiences. From the breathtaking beauty of nature to the sense of accomplishment that comes with completing a long-distance trail, the memories created on the trail will stay with you forever.

The trail culture is a unique and inspiring aspect of thru-hiking, where hikers from all walks of life come together to share stories, support one another, and create lifelong friendships.

The challenges faced on the trail, such as long distances, elevation gain, and unpredictable weather, push you to your limits and help you discover your inner strength.

These challenges, along with the incredible scenery and trail camaraderie, make thru-hiking an experience like no other.

Understanding Thru-Hike Lingo and Culture

If you’re planning a thru-hike, it’s important to understand the definition and lingo associated with this long-distance backpacking adventure. Here are four key points to help you navigate the world of thru-hiking:

• Thru-Hiking Variations: Thru-hiking can take different forms, such as hiking a single long-distance trail from end to end within a year or completing a section of a classic thru-trail. Each variation offers a unique experience and set of challenges.
• Mental Challenges: Thru-hikes can be mentally challenging, with moments of solitude and doubt. It’s important to prepare strategies to overcome these challenges, such as reminding yourself of your initial reasons for embarking on the journey and setting smaller goals along the way.
• Physical Challenges: Thru-hiking presents physical challenges such as long distances, elevation gain, blisters, and injuries. Training, carrying weight on shakedown hikes, and taking first-aid courses can help prepare you for these challenges.
• Financial Commitment: Thru-hiking requires a significant financial commitment, including expenses for gear, food, and time off work. It’s essential to research and budget accordingly to ensure a successful thru-hike.

Understanding these aspects will help you plan your thru-hike itinerary and prepare for the mental, physical, and financial challenges that lie ahead.

Thru-Hiking Basics and Variations

Understanding the basics and variations of thru-hiking is essential for planning your long-distance backpacking adventure. Thru-hiking variations offer different experiences, allowing you to choose the trail that suits your preferences and goals. For example, you can opt for the classic thru-trails like the Appalachian Trail (A.T.), Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), or Continental Divide Trail (CDT), which span thousands of miles. Alternatively, you can choose shorter trails like the Superior Hiking Trail or engage in section hiking or flip flopping for more flexibility. When planning your hike, consider important factors such as footwear choices, calorie dense food options, trail itinerary, and gear weight reduction. These considerations will help ensure a successful and enjoyable thru-hike experience.

Overcoming Thru-Hike Challenges

To overcome the challenges of a thru-hike, you must prepare mentally, physically, and financially. Here are four strategies to help you overcome these challenges:

• Overcoming mental challenges: Thru-hiking can be mentally demanding, with moments of solitude and doubts. Remind yourself that it’s natural to have quitting thoughts and focus on intermediate goals to stay motivated.
• Physical training strategies: Thru-hiking involves long distances, elevation gain, and potential injuries. To prepare physically, incorporate loaded pack day hikes into your training routine, gradually increasing mileage and weight. Wear the shoes you plan to hike in to condition your feet.
• Financial planning tips: Thru-hiking requires a significant financial commitment. Research and budget for major expenses like gear and food. Look for ways to minimize costs, such as buying second-hand gear and planning resupply stops strategically.
• Itinerary flexibility and gear durability: Be flexible with your itinerary to accommodate unforeseen circumstances like weather or injuries. Invest in durable and reliable gear to withstand the wear and tear of a thru-hike.

Financial Planning for Thru-Hiking

When it comes to thru-hiking, financial planning is a crucial aspect of your preparation. Budgeting and managing expenses will help ensure that you have the necessary funds to support your hike.

From calculating gear costs to considering the impact on your work and income, there are various financial challenges and solutions to explore.

Budgeting and Expenses

Start budgeting and planning for your thru-hike by considering the financial commitments and expenses involved. Here are some budgeting tips and cost-saving strategies to help you manage your finances on the trail:

• Resupply Budgeting: Plan your resupply points and estimate the cost of food and other essentials for each section of the trail. Research local grocery stores and consider mailing food boxes to save money and ensure availability in remote areas.
• Gear Budgeting: Prioritize your spending on essential gear items like a backpack, sleep system, and shelter. Look for sales, second-hand gear stores, or borrow from friends to save money without compromising quality.
• Managing Finances on the Trail: Carry a small amount of cash for emergencies and use a debit or credit card for larger expenses. Keep track of your spending and create a budget to stay within your means.
• Cost-Saving Strategies: Take advantage of hiker discounts at hostels, restaurants, and gear stores along the trail. Share expenses with other hikers, such as transportation or resupply costs, to reduce individual costs.

Financial Challenges and Solutions

One key aspect of planning your thru-hike is understanding and addressing the financial challenges that come with it. Thru-hiking requires a significant financial commitment, as it involves taking time off work without a paycheck and covering major expenses such as gear and food.

Costs can range from $1 per mile to $8,000, depending on your budget. To manage these expenses, it’s crucial to research and budget ahead of time. Look for budgeting solutions like buying gear on sale, borrowing from friends, and finding ways to minimize costs.

Balancing work and finances can be challenging, but seeking financial advice and exploring options like remote work or saving up beforehand can help ensure a successful thru-hike.

Balancing Work and Finances

Understanding the financial challenges that come with thru-hiking, it’s important to find ways to balance work and finances while planning for your long-distance adventure. Here are some strategies to help you achieve work-life balance and save money:

• Time management: Prioritize your tasks and create a schedule that allows you to dedicate time to both work and hiking preparation. Efficiently managing your time will ensure that you can meet work deadlines while still making progress on your thru-hike plans.
• Remote work options: Explore the possibility of working remotely during your thru-hike. This can allow you to continue earning income while on the trail, providing financial stability and flexibility.
• Side hustles: Consider taking on side hustles or freelance work to supplement your income. This can help you save up for your thru-hike and cover any unexpected expenses that may arise.
• Saving money: Cut back on unnecessary expenses and adopt frugal habits to save money for your thru-hike. Evaluate your current spending habits and find areas where you can reduce costs, such as dining out less frequently or canceling unused subscriptions.

The Thru-Hike Planning Process

When it comes to planning your thru-hike, there are several key points to consider.

First and foremost, starting early is crucial to ensure you have enough time to gather all the necessary information and make informed decisions.

Creating a detailed itinerary will help you stay organized and prepared throughout your journey, while considering different resupply options will ensure you have enough food and supplies along the way.

Researching gear recommendations and budgeting for your hike are also important factors to consider as you plan your thru-hike.

Start Planning Early

To ensure a successful thru-hike, begin your planning process at least eight months before your intended start date. Starting early allows you to thoroughly research and prepare for the challenges ahead.

Here are four important aspects to consider during the planning process:

• Training benefits: Incorporate day hikes with a loaded pack into your training routine. Gradually increase mileage and vary weight to prepare your body for the demands of thru-hiking. Wear the type of shoes you plan to hike in to condition your feet.
• Trail selection tips: Research different trails and consider factors like length, location, and difficulty. Popular choices include the Appalachian Trail, Continental Divide Trail, and Pacific Crest Trail. Choose a trail that aligns with your time availability and interests.
• Resupply strategies: Plan your resupply points along the trail, considering dietary needs and transportation limitations. You can mail food boxes to specific locations or rely on grocery stores for convenient resupply stops. Don’t plan all your food in advance, as preferences may change on the trail.
• Home life organization: Manage your home life responsibilities while hiking by subletting, securing car parking, decluttering, and selling possessions. Take care of bills and other obligations before you start your thru-hike to minimize distractions and stress.

Create a Detailed Itinerary

As you continue the thru-hike planning process, delve into creating a detailed itinerary to ensure a well-organized and successful journey on the trail. Start by considering food planning, trail safety precautions, mileage projections, and weather considerations.

When it comes to food planning, aim for calorie-dense and lightweight options to provide the necessary energy for your trek. Take into account any dietary restrictions or preferences you may have.

In terms of trail safety, research the potential risks and hazards of the trail you’ll be hiking and take appropriate precautions such as carrying a first aid kit and knowing how to use it.

Additionally, make sure to estimate your daily mileage to set realistic goals and plan resupply points accordingly.

Lastly, stay updated on weather forecasts and pack appropriate gear to handle different weather conditions you may encounter on your journey.

A detailed itinerary that takes into account these factors will help you have a smooth and enjoyable thru-hike experience.

Consider Resupply Options

Continue planning your thru-hike by considering different options for resupplying along the trail. Resupply timing, dietary considerations, managing home life, and personal motivation are all important factors to keep in mind. Here are four key points to consider:

• Resupply Timing : Plan your resupply points based on the distance between them and the duration of your hike. Consider how much food you can carry and how frequently you want to resupply.
• Dietary Considerations : Take into account any specific dietary restrictions or preferences when choosing your resupply options. Make sure to pack enough food that provides the necessary calories and nutrients for your journey.
• Managing Home Life : If you have responsibilities at home, plan how you’ll manage them while on the trail. Set up automatic bill payments, sublet your place, or arrange for someone to take care of your home and pets.
• Personal Motivation : Stay motivated by setting personal goals and reminding yourself of the reasons why you embarked on this journey. Use your resupply stops as milestones to mark your progress and celebrate your achievements.

Research Gear Recommendations

When researching gear recommendations for the thru-hike planning process, start by exploring different options and considering the specific needs of your chosen trail. Gear selection plays a crucial role in ensuring a successful and enjoyable thru-hike.

Here are some gear recommendations and tips to help you make the right choices.

• First, focus on weight-saving strategies to minimize the load you have to carry. Look for lightweight and compact gear without compromising durability.
• Consider the weather conditions and terrain of your trail when selecting clothing, sleeping bags, and shelter.
• Plan your resupply points strategically, taking into account the availability of food and other necessities along the trail.
• Lastly, don’t forget to manage your home life logistics, such as subletting, securing car parking, and decluttering, to ensure a smooth transition into your thru-hike adventure.

Budgeting and Financial Planning

Create a realistic budget and carefully plan your finances to ensure a successful thru-hike. Here are four key factors to consider when budgeting and financially planning for your thru-hike:

• Budgeting for Gear: Allocate a portion of your budget for essential gear like a backpack, sleep system, and shelter. Look for sales, second-hand gear stores, and consider borrowing from friends to save money.
• Saving Money on Food: Plan your food choices wisely to minimize costs. Aim for calorie-dense and lightweight options. Avoid water weight in your food and opt for foods with at least 120 calories per ounce. Include nuts, chocolate, and dried coconut in your food choices.
• Financial Considerations for Transportation: Factor in transportation costs to and from the trailhead. Consider options like public transportation, shuttle services, or carpooling with friends to save money.
• Managing Bills while on the Trail: Make arrangements to manage bills and responsibilities while you’re on the trail. Consider options like subletting your place, securing car parking, decluttering, and selling possessions to minimize expenses.

Seek Advice From Experienced Hikers

To enhance your thru-hike planning process, tap into the wealth of knowledge and experience from seasoned hikers who can offer valuable insights and advice. Seek advice from experienced hikers to get tips on trail selection, transportation options, gear selection, and resupply planning.

Experienced hikers can provide valuable advice on choosing the right trail for your thru-hike, considering factors such as length, difficulty, and personal interests. They can also offer recommendations on transportation options to get to the trailhead, whether it’s through friends, public transportation, or shuttle services.

When it comes to gear selection, experienced hikers can provide insights on what equipment is essential, lightweight, and durable for a thru-hike. Lastly, they can offer valuable advice on resupply planning, including where to mail food boxes and how to efficiently restock along the trail.

Thru-Hiking Community, Gear, and Terminology

Joining the thru-hiking community immerses you in a tight-knit network of hikers who share a passion for long-distance trails. Here are some key aspects of the thru-hiking community, gear, and terminology:

• Thru-Hiking Gear Selection: Choose lightweight gear options to reduce the weight you have to carry for thousands of miles. Look for durable gear that can withstand the wear and tear of a thru-hike. Consider seasonal gear that can be swapped at resupply stops for different weather conditions.
• Trail Angel Support: Trail angels are kind individuals who provide aid and comfort to hikers. They offer services like rides, food, and accommodation. Show your appreciation by making modest donations to support their efforts.
• Hiker Terminology: Familiarize yourself with hiker terminology, such as ‘Hike Your Own Hike’ (emphasizing individuality), ‘bounce box’ (a package sent ahead to a future resupply point), ‘hiker box’ (a box where hikers can leave or take items), ‘Hiker Midnight’ (early evening bedtime for hikers), and ‘Camel Up’ (drinking a large amount of water at once to hydrate for a long stretch).
• Building an Itinerary: Creating an itinerary helps you have a general idea of your location on the trail. Share it with a friend or family member for safety. However, avoid planning all your food in advance, as your preferences may change on the trail. Consider the weather conditions but don’t over-pack for every scenario.

Being part of the thru-hiking community and understanding the gear and terminology will enhance your experience on the trail.

The Colorado Trail Guide: Section by Section

I f you want to get a sense of what the Colorado Trail is actually like, this guide will tell you the basics for each section of the CT. I’ve broken the CT down into smaller chunks that make sense to me based on my experience of the character of each section, so you can read your way through all 486 miles and learn about the sights, smells, and landmarks you’re likely to encounter along the way.

Take everything I’m about to tell you with a big old grain of salt because the conditions of the day will dramatically affect your experience of the Colorado Trail: the same stretch of trail could look and feel completely different to two hikers on different days.

Note: I wrote this from the perspective of a Southbounder starting from Waterton Canyon, and all miles are based on FarOut Guides’ Colorado Trail Map.

READ NEXT – Everything You Need to Know to Hike the Colorado Trail

Quick Navigation

Segments 1-3 Segments 4-5 Segment 6 Segments 7-8 Segments 9-11 Segments 11-14 Segments 15-19 Segments 20-21 Segments 22-23 Segment 24 Segments 25-28

Mile 0 – 40.7 (Segments 1 – 3)

Follow this gently-graded road all the way to the top of Waterton Canyon, and keep your eyes peeled for bighorn sheep along the way. Photo via .

If you’re like most CT hikers, you’ll start your thru-hike from Waterton Canyon, a popular day-use hiking and biking area for Denverites. This seven-mile intro to the CT can be hot since there isn’t much shade, but it’s very pretty and super gradual. Keep an eye out for bighorn sheep in the canyon. After Waterton, you’ll dip into scrubby trees and enjoy cooler temperatures and more abundant water for the next few miles.

Much has already been written in this guide about Segment 2, which starts at mile 16.5 at the South Platte River. So I’ll just summarize here: 10 miles, very hot, very dry. Start early in the morning and pack plenty of water. It’s a gorgeous, desertlike stretch if you’re prepared to handle the heat.

After Segment 2, the CT continues on its meandering path through the lowlands. It should be noted that the trail hasn’t broken above 8,000 feet so far, so if you’re hiking in the summertime like most people, conditions will likely be pretty toasty. You won’t go so long again without water as you did in Segment 2, but the environment will continue to be arid and shrubby with sparse shade from tall shrubs and evergreens.

Return to top.

Mile 40.7 – 71.4 (Segments 4 and 5)

Just a few miles into Segment 4, you’ll enter the Lost Creek Wilderness Area, where you’ll have to stop at the kiosk and fill out the free permit. The trail is mostly forested in this section. Mountain bikes are not allowed in this or any other Wilderness area. The trail climbs a lot in Seg 4, so show up ready to work.

In exchange, you’ll get above 10,000 feet for the first time and the trail will start to feel cooler, lusher, and more mountainous. Incidentally, at mile 45.2 you’ll cross a gorgeous rocky stream, and there will be ample camping just before the crossing if you look downslope. This is a great stop to break up your first big climb of the CT into more manageable chunks.

After the high point at 47.5 and descending for about a mile, you’ll start a very long, gradual, beautiful five-mile climb through a long valley that’s fairly open and features many expansive views. The trail is mostly exposed, so this may be a section to tackle early in the day if possible.

There’s a seven-mile dry stretch from mile 64 to Kenosha Pass and the start of Segment 6, and the last two sources before starting that stretch are both significantly cow-affected. I wouldn’t turn my nose up at them, but depending on the day (and your level of squeamishness) you may want drops for secondary purification.

Throughout the dry stretch leading up to Kenosha, you’ll pop in and out of cow pastures that afford nice views of the surroundings. These meadow walks are broken up by short stretches through aspen groves. Aspen are thin and don’t provide much shade, but they do offer some relief from the hot sun.

Mile 71.4-100.3 (Segment 6)

A busy highway goes through Kenosha Pass, and there’s a campground there where you can fill up your water. Some hikers hitch into the towns of Jefferson or Fairplay from here.

Shortly after the campground, you cross Jefferson Creek around mile 75. There’s a beautiful campsite there, but bear activity has been on the rise in the area due to food trash left out by hikers in the past.

Then you start the long climb up to the beautiful Georgia Pass. You’re likely to encounter quite a few mountain bikes in this stretch. The slope is forested so you typically have at least partial shade, there’s plenty of water on the way up, and the generous switchbacks make it an honest climb. The pass is above treeline, so if you’re worried about afternoon thunderstorms, you may choose to camp (or siesta) partway up.

Georgia Pass was really the first time I felt like I was hiking in the Rocky Mountains on this trail. The views are to die for up top, and the surrounding peaks are indeed starting to look bigger and wilder. Depending on the season and the year, many of them may still be graced with snowy caps.

Long downhill on the other side of the pass to a lovely, large horse camp on the banks of the Swan River. The campsite is adjacent to a dirt road and you may encounter car campers on summer weekends: consider yourself warned.

Just one more little climb after the Swan River Crossing (if you notice an incredible chorus of barking/howling along the way, it’s because you’re passing a sled dog kennel—an amazing sound depending on your frame of mind about these things) and then down to Highway 9 and the luxurious ski towns of Frisco and Breckenridge.

Mile 100.3 – 143 (Segments 7 and 8)

The first few miles of the climb out of Breck are hot and dry thanks to a wildfire that incinerated much of the slope. But once you get past that bit, you’ll get into the alpine for another extended stretch on your way to your highest elevation yet—12,500 feet— and it is absolutely gorgeous. Shortly after you first break out of the trees (warning: the section right around treeline is particularly steep and exhausting), you’ll have an incredible view of Tenmile Peak (Peak 1). From the top of the climb, you can see down to Copper Mountain Ski Resort on the other side. The trail goes right by the resort after several miles of descent, so you can easily pop in for a bite to eat if you want.

Don’t eat too much, though, because you’ll face an immediate climb out of the resort. You’ll have prime wildflower-viewing opportunities as you make your way up a tough climb to Elk Ridge and Kokomo Pass and then down the other side to Camp Hale, a WWII-era Army training camp that is now retired. You’ll walk right past the old bunkers, and there are still signs in the area warning hikers to stick to the trail because of possible unexploded ordinance in the area.

Following a seven-mile, very gradual climb from Camp Hale (including several miles of smooth, gently-graded walking on a retired dirt forest road), you’ll reach Tennessee Pass and the end of Segment Eight. You can hitch into the charming town of Leadville pretty easily from here.

Mile 143 – 177 (Segments 9 – 11)

Camped among the aspen near the base of the Mount Elbert approach trail.

Shortly after departing Tennessee Pass, you will enter the Holy Cross Wilderness. A series of sharp climbs will get you up and over the ridge, going past several lovely alpine lakes along the way. The trail continues to bounce around through forested landscapes mostly between 10- and 11,000 feet.

At miles 166 and 170, you will pass junctions with the Mount Massive Trailhead, your first opportunity to summit a 14er, followed closely by the Mount Elbert Trail junctions at miles 170 and 175. (Mount Elbert is the highest summit in Colorado and second-highest in the Lower 48 after California’s Mount Whitney). The forest becomes very aspen-dominant around Elbert, meaning shade will be on the sparse side.

At mile 175 you can take a shortcut side trail down to Twin Lakes Village, or you can continue on the CT and do a short road walk into “town” (which really just means the general store, there’s not much around) if you need to resupply.

Miles 177 – 253 (Segments 11 – 14)

Um… Photo via .

After Twin Lakes, you have to decide whether to hike Collegiate East or the Collegiate West Alternate. Although Collegiate East is the official route of the CT, both paths are accepted by the Colorado Trail Foundation as part of a CT thru-hike. Collegiate West is more grueling but also more scenic, while Collegiate East doesn’t have quite as much elevation change and keeps to lower elevations more of the time, so you’re less at risk during thunderstorms.

To get a sense of what this section will be like and which of the two routes you should choose, check out Collegiate East vs. West: 8 Key Differences for CT Hikers .

Either way, you’ll pop out of the Collegiates at Highway 50 some 75 miles later and most likely hitch down to Poncha Springs or Salida to resupply.

Miles 253 – 330 (Segments 15 – 19)

Favorite sign sighting on the whole CT. Spotted just before Eddiesville Trailhead and the end of Seg 19.

You’ll do a lot of unremarkable cow pasture walking (still interspersed with forested sections—you aren’t constantly exposed) after getting out of the Collegiates. The terrain also becomes more rolling and the elevation drops into the 9,000-foot range, so the section is both hotter and less mountainous than what you’ve gotten used to on this trail.

This stretch is still pleasant in its own way, though. The steady climb up to Sargent’s Mesa is a section highlight, offering a more pastoral vibe than the CT normally serves up.

Segment 19 is a nice way to wrap up this little interlude. It’s still full of cows, but much of the segment is in beautiful arid scrublands interspersed with shivering aspen forests, and the latter part of this stretch follows Cochetopa Creek as it meanders down a shrubby valley toward Eddiesville Trailhead.

Miles 330 – 358 (Segments 20 and 21)

The trail gradually shifts in character as you make your way toward San Luis Pass from Eddiesville Trailhead. The shrubby cow pastures slowly give way to tall, jutting peaks on either side and a marshy, willowy valley floor. You’ll climb up to a saddle with an unmarked mile-long trail up to the top of San Luis Peak and then continue on a steady downhill to San Luis Pass on the other side, from where you can access Creede.

After miles of fairly monotonous pasture walking, you’re launched back into sensory overload in Segments 20 and 21. Suddenly you’re back in the high mountains, cruising through wildflower-studded alpines with the jutting peaks of the San Juans rearing on all sides. Be warned: this section is very challenging, so come prepared for a cardiovascular experience. You’ll wrap it up with a long, exposed traverse of Snow Mesa before dropping back down to asphalt at Spring Creek Pass, the access point for Lake City (or, less commonly, Creede).

Miles 358 – 391 (Segments 22 – 23)

Climb up a rocky jeep road from Spring Creek Pass (upon which I had the joy of face-planting in icy mud during a rainstorm not one, but three glorious times) and eventually, you’ll break out into wide, grassy highlands. The terrain slopes away so gently on either side that you feel like you’re hiking in mildly hilly flatlands, rather than in the heart of the Rockies and approaching the Colorado Trail’s 13,259-foot high point at mile 373. A technicolor array of big peaks and crags off in the not-too-far distance clues you in that you’re still in the mountains.

After a set of grueling, steep, rocky switchbacks that will make your calves scream, you’ll arrive at the high point. It is slightly anticlimactic—just more grass gently sloping away in every direction and a wooden sign to mark the significance of this place. Still, if you’re like me and manage to go across the high point on a summer afternoon, with impending thunderheads of doom nipping at your heels, it will be dramatic enough regardless.

Shortly after the high point, you’ll join a dusty jeep road (watch out for ATVs), pass an interesting sinkhole, and then start contouring one side of a long valley. Several miles later, you will enter some of the most singular, glorious hiking of the entire Colorado Trail. I’m not a big spender, but I found myself longing for a $400 GoPro all throughout this stretch. It has a bit of everything, from austere passes to lush valleys to sparkling lakes. A friend of mine reported seeing a moose submerged almost to his antlers in a lake in this section while he grazed the lake bottom.

You’ll end the section with a hot, dusty road walk on Stony Pass Road, where, if it’s a weekend, you might get to “enjoy” the “pleasure” of being passed a conga line of jeeps and ATVs on their way up to the scenic summit.

 Miles 391 – 412 (Segment 24)

Elk Creek Canyon viewed from mile 398.

The trail splits off from the road before the top of Stony Pass Road (the juncture marks the beginning of Segment 24) and starts another long, gradual descent through grassy meadows. You’ll bounce around in these curious hills for some miles. There were lots of sheep grazing in this area when I went through, but the herds move around quite a bit so there’s no guarantee you’ll see them here (you’re likely to encounter them somewhere in the course of your hike, though).

Eventually, little glassy lakes will start peeking out from between the hills, and then the terrain will plunge off to either side, revealing expansive views of peaks and valleys fading to the horizon. Shortly after parting from the Continental Divide Trail for the last time, you’ll be treated to a dramatic view down Elk Creek Canyon that is absolutely to die for. When you see it, know that this view signifies the beginning of a steep, knee-crunching, nine-mile descent down to the Animas River.

The first few miles of this descent are treacherous due to the unhappy combination of a steep gradient and an abundance of pea gravel that works like ball bearings under your feet. Once you get below treeline, the tread stabilizes and it’s easier to walk. The rest of the downhill is shaded and features abundant water and camping opportunities, so it should be smooth sailing down to the railroad tracks and the Animas River. There’s one more big climb up to Molas Lake before you can catch a ride into Silverton on Highway 550 for a well-earned rest.

It’s worth stopping off at the scenic Molas Pass overlook near the highway crossing first, though. The fact that air-conditioned motorists can appreciate this view just as easily as flea-bitten thru-hikers does not negate the fact that it is one of the most spectacular vistas on the trail.

Mile 412-485 (Segments 25 – 28)

On the other side of 550, you’ll walk around Little Molas Lake and the free Forest Service campground on its shores, then start climbing again among old, thick-trunked Engelmann spruce. As of 2021, the trees in this area were still mostly alive. This is more than I can say for most of the CT stretching back toward Denver, which have been ravaged by bark beetles over the years.

You’ll duck in and out of these clusters of ancient trees, often swapping them for lush, grassy meadows and (especially in July) brilliant wildflowers. Large, reddish, mound-shaped mountains jut out here and there, and the ground slopes away, revealing a patchwork of dark trees, brighter grasses, glinting lakes, and occasional bare bedrock.

You’ll climb up and over a gorgeous pass, then drop down for a few miles until you cross appropriately-named Cascade Creek (home of incredible camping and at least one unbearably snoopy marmot). Eventually, you’ll find yourself on Jeep roads again as you approach the shores of scenic Celebration Lake.

After going over Blackhawk Pass, be sure to fill up at Straight Creek as there isn’t much water between there and Taylor Lake 21 miles south.

Just before getting to Taylor Lake, you’ll cross Indian Trail Ridge, a long, knife-edge spine of rock that’s well above treeline and is notorious for bad weather. I’ve crossed it both and have indeed had crappy, dangerous weather both times (lightning and freezing rain, respectively). However, it’s very beautiful and a lot of fun to hike. Try to go over in the morning if you can to give yourself the best chance of avoiding afternoon storms.

Taylor Lake itself is very beautiful and basically signals the beginning of the end of this trail. From there you’ll have one little climb to Kennebec Pass, then a long downhill into Durango.

More Resources from the Colorado Trail Guide

Everything You Need to Know to Hike the Colorado Trail 11 Highlights of the Colorado Trail You Won’t Want to Miss Colorado Trail Packing List Logistics for a Colorado Trail Thru-Hike Towns and Resupply on the Colorado Trail Essential Safety Tips for Thru-Hiking the Colorado Trail Collegiate East vs. West: 8 Key Differences for CT Hikers How to Hike Every 14er on the Colorado Trail (with FarOut Miles) The Beer Drinker’s Guide to the Colorado Trail

Featured image: Graphic design by Chris Helm ( @chris.helm ).

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To learn more, please visit the About This Site page.

Oh hey there! I'm Ibex, managing editor of this site. I mostly spend my spare time scheming new adventures and inadvertently setting my hair on fire while cooking. Thru-hikes: Appalachian Trail 2018 | Wonderland Trail 2019 | Colorado Trail 2020 + 2021 | Wind River High Route 2022 | Pyrenean Haute Route 2023

I’m pretty sure what you called a sinkhole is a geological pothole. It appears to be formed in solid rock. Sinkholes are formed in soil,clay gravel or a combination of these. My son Justin is on the trail as I write this. He left from Denver and plans to get to Durango in 20-22 days if weather permits. Hiking and journeys life this are a part of his life. Happy trails.

How easy it is to join someone along the way on the CT?

How far apart are the access points

I have friend who invited on the CT with him, but I cannot join him for the first two weeks.

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Hiking the Appalachian Trail: A Beginner’s Guide

More than 3,000 people attempt to walk the entire Appalachian Trail every year. Only about a quarter of them succeed. This intel from an AT thru-hiker provides key information to help you tackle and complete the 2,193-mile trek from Georgia to Maine.

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The Appalachian Trail is neither the longest nor the most scenic of the world’s great hiking trails. But in terms of influence and inspiration, it is the grandfather of them all. The AT exerts an almost magnetic attraction on the hearts of outdoorspeople from around the globe.

I first felt the AT’s pull at the age of nine while on a vacation in New Hampshire. My family and I took the Cog Railway up 6,288-foot Mount Washington, in the Presidential Range. We started hiking in the deciduous hardwood forests at the base, then climbed through the conifers and the krummholz to finally arrive at the fog-shrouded, wind-battered, arctic-alpine zone of the summit.

The tour guide recited the weather stats: Washington boasted the highest (at the time) land wind speed ever recorded—231 miles per hour, set in 1934—and its summit is buffeted by hurricane-speed gusts 110 days a year. I also took note of the fatalities: inside the summit building, a list named all of the people who had died in the Presidential Range, mostly from hypothermia and falls; back in 1968, there were over 60. Today that list has more than doubled.

But what really captured my imagination was outside the summit hut, where enormous cairns stood like sentinels, some topped with bright white quartz rocks that made them more visible to hikers struggling through the fog. Our guide pointed to the white blazes painted on the cairns: if we followed them, he said, we could walk all the way to Georgia on the 2,193-mile Appalachian Trail. As if on cue, a pair of hikers carrying backpacks emerged through the mist. They looked like superheroes. I imagined them continuing, heading down the other side of the peak, up the next one, up and down again and again. Just like that I became what in AT lingo is called a dreamer—a thru-hiker in waiting.

Over the past 30 years, I’ve thru-hiked all three of the triple-crown trails —the AT, the Pacific Crest Trail, and the Continental Divide Trail—some sections of them multiple times. In the course of trekking some 18,000 miles on long-distance trails in numerous countries and writing 14 books about hiking, including Great Hiking Trails of the World , I have frequently been asked which is my favorite, which is like asking a mother to pick her favorite child. What I can tell you is what is unique about each one. For the Appalachian Trail, my touchstone is its seminal idea—or ideal—which was first published 100 years ago in an article that appeared in the Journal of the American Institute of Architects . Conservationist Benton MacKaye proposed a trail that would link the peaks of the Appalachians and serve as an antidote to the unceasing pace and stresses of the industrialized East Coast.

The Appalachian Trail has done that and more. Its combination of wilderness, history, community, and legend have given it an iconic status and have inspired the creation of long-distance trails in places as far away as Israel and Australia. To help others experience it, here’s my key advice on how to get started and give yourself the best shot at success.

Define the Challenge

According to Laurie Potteiger, information specialist at the Appalachian Trail Conservancy , the ATC defines thru-hikers as people who walk every one of the trail’s 2,193 miles within one calendar year. Note, however, that your actual mileage will vary. First of all, you may walk more miles to get to shelters and towns for resupply. Second, the trail distance changes slightly from year to year if there is a relocation (or “relo” in hiker lingo) due to land purchases, development, or environmental reasons.

Although 2,193 miles is a long way to walk, the AT is actually the shortest of the triple-crown trails—on the PCT  you’ll cover 2,650 miles, on the CDT , 3,059. Nor can the AT compete in the jaw-dropping mountain-scenery department. With a high point of a mere (by western standards) 6,643 feet, it rarely tops the tree line; indeed, the trail is sometimes called the “long green tunnel.”

But that doesn’t mean the AT is easy, as a Colorado friend learned when she joined me for a stretch in Virginia, where elevations rise to around 4,000 feet. “I’d have to dig a well to get to that elevation!” she initially scoffed when I advised her to get in shape. Later, nursing sore muscles, she admitted, “I just couldn’t imagine that mountains that small could be that tough.”

The AT’s difficulty comes from an especially ornery combination of terrain, trail routing, and obstacles, all of which are exacerbated by heat, humidity, rain, ice, and snow. While many western trails are graded and switchbacked for horses, the AT often takes a straight-up-and-down path—rocks, steepness, and mud be damned. PUDs (hiker talk for pointless ups and downs) often add up to thousands of feet of elevation gain and loss, while hand-over-hand boulder mazes can reduce progress to a mile an hour in places like western Maine, home to infamous Mahoosuc Notch , the hardest mile on the entire trail.

Most hikers complete the AT in five to seven months, although those gunning for fastest-known-time records ( FKTs ), have covered the distance at a mind-boggling speed. The current record holder is Karel Sabbe , a Belgian dentist and long-distance runner, who completed the trail in just 41 days, 7 hours, and 39 minutes in 2018. These athletes don’t indulge in rest days. For mere mortals, it’s typical to take zeroes (a day when you do no hiking) or neroes (days when you do nearly no hiking) about once a week to shower in town, resupply, and rest. What all this works out to is an average pace of maybe 15 to 18 miles a day.

Another way to tackle the AT is to section-hike, which means covering the distance in a series of hikes spread out over more than a year. In hiker lingo, Lashes—long-ass section hikers—take on several hundred miles at a time, while Sashes—short-ass section hikers—chip away at it in shorter segments. Either way, section hikers can plan to trek different trail segments during their peak seasons. Some of my favorites are rhododendron season in late spring in the southern Appalachians, especially around Roan Mountain, Tennessee; fall with its radiant foliage in Vermont on Glastonbury Mountain; and summer in New Hampshire and Maine, when temperatures are just about perfect. But section hiking has its own challenges: transportation logistics and expenses, as well as having to deal with the aches and pains of the first few days on the trail more often. (Thru-hikers, by contrast, only have to break themselves in once and then can enjoy being trail-hardened and able to do longer, faster miles.)

Which Way to Go and When to Start

On the AT, you can go northbound or southbound. The very first thru-hiker went northbound, which became the norm for the majority of hikers to follow. Earl Shaffer , a World War II veteran, left Georgia’s Springer Mountain in April 1948 and arrived at Maine’s Mount Katahdin in August.

Shaffer titled his book about the journey Walking with Spring , but northbound hikers (nobos, in thru-hiker lingo) often encounter surprisingly winter-like conditions in March and early April. Because of their elevation, the mountains of northern Georgia can have approximately the same climate as coastal Maine. Another surprise for nobos are the crowds: with more than 3,000 aspiring thru-hikers, the southern Appalachian Trail in April can resemble a frat party during spring break. For some, this is the antithesis of a wilderness experience.

Sobos (southbound hikers) have a very different experience. Sobos usually start in Maine in late May after Memorial Day, the exact date depending on the season’s snowpack and when Baxter State Park opens Katahdin trails. A sobo itinerary attracts far fewer hikers but presents some tough challenges. The first miles—up and down 5,269-foot Katahdin—are among the most difficult of the entire trail, filled with rock scrambles and cable-assisted bouldering. Up next is the AT’s longest roadless stretch, the so-called 100-Mile Wilderness , a couple hundred miles of the trail’s most unforgiving terrain, all during northern New England’s infamous blackfly season.

To spread out impact, the Appalachian Trail Conservancy has established a voluntary online registration system so hikers can check to see how many others have registered for their intended start date. In recent years, some thru-hikers have been beginning earlier—in February or even January—to have a more isolated experience. I started my nobo thru-hike at the end of January, and I’ve also backpacked all of the AT in New Jersey, the northern 200 miles of Virginia, and parts of New York, Connecticut, and Massachusetts in the dead of winter. On most of these hikes, I rarely saw other people. If you and your gear are winter-ready and able to handle ice, cold, and snow, much of the trail south of Vermont is usually hikeable through most of the winter.

Another strategy that the ATC has been promoting in recent years is the flip-flop —a noncontinuous thru-hike. The hiker starts wherever they like, treks in whichever direction they want, then gets a ride to another point on the trail and continues hiking in a different direction. It doesn’t matter where you start, which direction you go in, or how many times you flip, as long as you hike the miles.

Find Your Way

The AT is one of the best and most consistently marked trails in the world. White blazes are precisely two inches wide and six inches tall; maintainers even use a stencil to be sure the blazes all look the same. Blazes are found on trees and also on rocks, cairns, fence posts, telephone poles, fence stiles, and in one case, on the bottom of a canoe that ferries hikers across the Kennebec River in Maine. Double blazes indicate a change of direction. In addition to the white blazes, blue-blazed alternate routes lead to shelters, lookouts, or side trails.

Embrace the Community

The Appalachian Trail is often called “a community in the wilderness,” and as with any community, it has its traditions, leaders, heroes, celebrities, and renegades.

Beyond thru-hikers, section hikers, and flip-floppers, you’ll also hear about white blazers and blue blazers . White blazers are purists who walk every mile, never deviating from the official white-blazed route, no shortcuts allowed. Blue blazers might skip some white blazes by taking side trails into and out of shelters, or by taking shortcuts on alternate blue-blazed routes. Before you criticize someone in the opposite camp, remember the unofficial AT motto: hike your own hike.

You’ll also find pink blazers (someone who changes their schedule to hike with a crush), yellow blazers (hikers who hitchhike and therefore skip a section of trail), and green blazers (hikers surrounded with a haze of marijuana).

Hikers also take on trail names, like trucker CB handles, which are either names they choose or names that are given to them on the trail. They might be named for speed (Jackrabbit versus Turtle), their favorite foods (Chile versus Veggie), their habits (Bookworm or Macho), their appearance (Red Fox or Golden Girl), or a host of other traits. Cell phones and online journals are a way for hikers to communicate, but old-fashioned notebook communal-trail registers found in shelters remain an important part of the hiker grapevine.

The trail community also extends beyond those hiking. Maintainers, who are usually volunteers, do everything from cleaning out privies to building rock steps. Ridge runners are seasonal AT employees found along some sections of the trail, responsible for hiker education and assistance in emergencies. Trail angels are people who show up and do nice things for thru-hikers, like putting on an impromptu barbecue or making a point to pick up hikers who need a ride to town to resupply.

For a full-on immersion into the heart of AT community and culture, don’t miss the Trail Days Festival in Damascus, Virginia, which attracts thousands of hikers past, present, and future to what has become known as “the friendliest town on the trail.”

Get in Shape

I’ve arrived at long-distance trailheads in I’ve-just-run-a-marathon shape, and I’ve arrived in couch-potato shape. Here’s what I know firsthand: while it is certainly possible to haul an unfit body up a mountain with a heavy pack, it’s also a recipe for frustration and injury. Anything you can do before your hike to strengthen your aerobic fitness and your leg muscles will help . This is especially important if your body doesn’t have a history of endurance sports. When planning the initial part of your hike, factor in the uphills and downhills, and give yourself at least a few days of easy mileage.

What to Pack

Layering is especially important on the Appalachian Trail. On my own thru-hike, temperatures ranged from the twenties to nearly 100, not to mention rain, snow, and soul-sucking humidity. Avoid cotton, and use the lightest, most breathable fabrics you can find. Merino wool is especially versatile: it works as an active layer in both hot and cold weather, and it can be used as a sleeping layer.

A lightweight puffy jacket for warmth is a good choice for early spring, and also for northern New England, where you’ll want a full range of alpine gear, including a hat, gloves, rain pants, and a rain jacket. In between—for example in the mid-Atlantic through the summer—you can mail some of those layers home.

Above all, make sure your footwear works for you. This includes not only your boots, but your socks, sock liners, and your preferred blister treatment . Today’s thru-hikers opt for lighter-weight footwear than the heavy waffle stompers of yesteryear. But even lightweight boots and shoes can cause blisters if they don’t fit well.

Also: you probably won’t make it on one pair. Figure about 1,000 miles for lightweight boots and about 500 for trekking shoes. Some hikers find that their feet get bigger from swelling during a thru-hike. Nothing can help a too small boot, so if you are buying replacement footwear in advance, consider sizing up a little: lacing tricks, insoles, and thicker socks can adjust the fit of a slightly roomy boot.

A few other items I always bring:

• A trowel for burying toilet waste
• A way to carry water (bags or bottles) and a way to purify it (a filter, pills, or drops)
• A stove, pot, pot grabber, cup, utensil, and multitool
• A first aid kit
• Trekking poles: in addition to saving your knees and helping you balance on tricky rock sections, trekking poles can ward off unfriendly, unleashed dogs and hold up lightweight tents and tarps

Where to Sleep

The AT has the most extensive system of backcountry shelters in the U.S. There are more than 250 primitive shelters usually no more than a day’s walk (5 to 15 miles) apart. Most are three-sided huts accommodating between 5 and 20 people. Amenities often include picnic tables, fire pits, nearby tent areas, and a proximate water source.

Shelter space is first-come, first-served, and it quickly fills up, especially early in the thru-hiking season when 60 to 70 people might be starting on any given day. Thru-hikers should carry some sort of tarp or tent. Full-size one- or two-person tents, small bivy tents, tarps, tarp tents, and hammock systems all have their advocates, depending on how they prioritize comfort, weight, and protection from weather and bugs. Personally, I prefer a tent: the snoring and noise of a crowded shelter often precludes a good night’s sleep, which makes it well worth the hassle of pitching your own camp. You’ll also, of course, need a sleeping bag and a sleeping pad. A 20-degree bag is not overkill for early spring.

Camping regulations vary. In some areas, unregulated, so-called stealth camping is permitted, but on many stretches, hikers must camp in designated sites; occasionally, small fees are charged. The  ATC camping chart summarizes the current regulations pertaining to camping near shelters, within sight of the trail, and above the tree line, as well as proper distance from water sources, and above tree line, and it provides information about national parks, Baxter State Park, and the Appalachian Mountain Club huts in the White Mountains, which have more restrictive regulations owing to such issues as bear activity, crowds, and environmental impact above the tree line.

What to Eat

Vegan, organic, junk food, ketogenic: no matter how you eat at home, someone has figured out how to do it on the trail . You’ll see macaroni and cheese, oatmeal, instant mashed potatoes, cans of tuna, cheese, peanut butter, tortillas, freeze-dried meals, home-dehydrated meals, and lots and lots of Snickers and ramen. The one thing hiker meals have in common? Significant calories. Calorie requirements vary by gender, body size, and daily effort (mileage and elevation gain), but the general consensus is that 4,000 calories a day is a good starting rule of thumb.

Most AT thru-hikers carry three to seven days’ worth of food: less than three days’ worth, and you waste too much time shopping in towns; more than a week’s worth, and pack weight becomes oppressive. With plenty of road crossings, hikers have relatively easy and frequent access to towns along the AT for shopping and resupply.

Most hikers send at least some food drops—prepacked boxes of supplies—to themselves via the general delivery at trail-town post offices. You can find a list of popular trail towns (as well as their mileage marker and the zip codes for sending mail to them) at The Trek , a website dedicated to providing information to long-distance hikers. Hikers carefully calculate the mileage between one town and the next, figure out how many days it will take to arrive, count up the breakfasts, lunches, dinners, snacks, and drinks they will need during that time, pack a box for each trail segment, and cajole a friend or family member to mail the boxes at designated times. It’s a lot of work, but the reward is the right amount of the right foods. On the downside, postage is expensive and packages sometimes get lost.

More casual hikers might only send a few food drops, to smaller towns where resupply options are limited. In bigger towns, they shop as they go. My own system is to prepack and send most (but not all) of my food. So at each stop, I’ll pick up some supplies and can take advantage of a bit of variety and the idiosyncrasies of local offerings, including foods that can’t be sent in the mail, like cheese.

AT hikers can also make use of so-called hiker boxes. Found in hostels, shops, post offices, laundromats, and other businesses along the trail, hiker boxes contain anything the last hikers to come through had too much of—from socks to stove fuel to sunscreen to food. Etiquette note: it’s considered bad form to clear out all the good stuff!

Trail Safety

Since 1974, there have been 13 murders on the AT. Weighing those numbers against the three million people a year who use the trail—more than the entire population of Chicago—most hikers conclude that it’s a reasonably safe place to be.

Other causes of death on the AT have included drowning, heart attacks, hypothermia, lightning strikes, falling trees, and getting lost.

Hiking with a partner is safer than hiking solo, but what if you don’t have a hiking buddy? No worries: there’s a big bubble—trail lingo for the bulge of hikers who start at about the same time in the spring and head up the trail more or less at the same pace. Solo hikers starting their thru-hikes at this time can easily join a tramily—thru-hiker talk for a trail family—that moves at about the same pace, camps together, and takes zeros and neros together.

Wildlife sightings—moose, bears, deer, foxes, coyotes, and a host of other animals—are a magical part of the trail experience, but encounters with animals trying to raid your food stash can be an annoyance and a safety hazard. The ATC’s Laurie Potteiger points out that bears are becoming more prevalent along more parts of the trail. The ATC recommends using bear canisters, which also protect supplies from mice, porcupines, raccoons, skunks, and other nocturnal visitors.

Less dramatic but equally bothersome trail threats are ticks (parts of the AT in Massachusetts and Connecticut are ground zero for Lyme disease), poison ivy (pretty much everywhere except the higher elevations in New England), rattlesnakes (everywhere except northern New England), and giardia (an illness caused by drinking contaminated, untreated water).

Thru-Hiker Etiquette

Basic kindergarten be-nice-to-others behavior and an understanding of Leave No Trace principles will go a long way in making sure you’re not “that guy.” These tips will keep you in good stead with your fellow hikers:

Leave no trace. The ATC has an  entire section of its website devoted to these principles, including pack it in, pack it out, and correctly dispose of all waste.

Stay on the trail to help prevent erosion. Don’t cut the switchbacks, and whenever possible, walk in the middle of the trail, even if it’s muddy, rather than on the edges.

Shelters are first-come, first-served, and hiker midnight is around 9 P.M. If you arrive later, when everyone is asleep, either pitch a tent outside the shelter or try to be quiet.

Cell-phone etiquette is a potential point of conflict in shelters. This applies to both lights and noise. At the very least, keep the volume down and go outside to make calls. (Also note that cell-phone reception is only sporadically available and not something to count on.)

Carry your own weight! Sure, hiking light is the goal, but it’s not cool to carry so little that you end up asking other hikers to borrow the things you didn’t want to haul.

COVID-19 Protocols

In 2020, the ATC asked all thru-hikers to leave the trail, due to concerns about community spread of COVID-19 in shelters, as well as from hikers to residents of small rural communities. To encourage compliance, the ATC decided not to recognize any thru-hikes or mileage toward thru-hikes completed during this period. This restriction has since been lifted, and the ATC will resume recognizing thru-hiking mileage completed after May 11, 2021.

Hikers should be aware that the trail is managed by a variety of federal, state, and local agencies, and that rules and closures can change with jurisdiction as well as news of pandemic. Not all shelters and campsites are open, and local regulations are shifting on a weekly basis. Check locally for current details; the  ATC website has state-by-state details that are updated regularly.

The ATC  continues to encourage all hikers to follow CDC guidelines. Even if shelters are not officially closed, hikers are advised to avoid sleeping in them during the pandemic, because limited space and close quarters make social distancing impossible. Hikers should carry personal shelters (tarps or tents), avoid sharing food with others, and wash their hands frequently. Hostels with group sleeping accommodations also pose a risk for unvaccinated hikers. The ATC recommends that hikers get vaccinated if possible, and that all hikers carry masks to wear when and if required by private businesses or other regulations.

The ATC has online resources covering everything from COVID protocols to bears to a library of planning and reading material, as well as printed maps and guidebooks. The Appalachian Long Distance Hikers Association (ALDAH) sponsors an annual gathering in Virginia in October, with workshops for prospective thru-hikers and slide-show lectures on topics ranging from international hikes to gear.

The AT Data Book , by Daniel Chazin, offers mile-by-mile notes of important points on the trail, including shelters, water sources, road crossings, and other essentials. Compiled by ALDAH members, the Appalachian Trail Thru-Hiker’s Companion contains everything you need to know about on- and off-trail services, including post offices, hostels, businesses, inns, laundromats, shuttle services, outfitters, and more. David “AWOL” Miller’s The AT Guide combines the data points, maps, town information, GPS coordinates, and URLs. Guthook’s Appalachian Trail Guide  is the most popular long-distance hiking app and contains maps and trail notes updated in real time.

Informative and helpful websites include WhiteBlaze  for forums, journals, data, and more; SectionHiker  for long-distance how-to information, especially about gear and lightweight strategies; and Backpacking Light , which tackles how to get your gear weight down to its minimum practical amount, something that may well make the difference between success and failure.

Essential Further Reading

Here are a few of Outside ’s most compelling stories about the AT.

“ The Legend of Baltimore Jack ,” by Dan Koeppel

When Baltimore Jack died, the news shook the Appalachian Trail community. Jack had left behind the real world to live on the AT, thru-hiking it seven times and helping countless others to reach their goals.

“ Going It Alone ,” by Rahawa Haile

What happens when an African American woman decides to solo-hike the Appalachian Trail from Georgia to Maine during a summer of bitter political upheaval? Everything you can imagine, from scary moments of racism to new friendships to soaring epiphanies about the timeless value of America’s most storied trekking route.

“ The Thru-Hikers Who Finished the AT During the Pandemic ,” by Grayson Haver Currin

After months of trespassing and hiding from rangers, two hikers completed the Appalachian Trail in June 2020. Their sagas raised questions about what it meant to be outdoors during the pandemic.

“ Did Thru-Hiking the Appalachian Trail Ruin My Body? ,” by Grayson Haver Currin

Many hikers hope their treks will make them better at other sports. Instead, mine kept me from distance running for a year—a common side effect we don’t discuss enough.

“ An Appalachian Trail Horror Story ”

Sometimes the biggest threat in the wilderness is another human. In this gripping story from our friends at Backpacker ’s Out Alive podcast, we hear the tragic tale of a group of hikers who found themselves out in the woods in the worst kind of trouble.

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Laugavegur Trail – Iceland’s Best Hiking Trail

Europe , Hikes , Iceland

Iceland's Laugavegur trail is a renowned and popular trek that people come from near and far to experience.

The landscape along the trail is diverse and takes you on a surreal journey through the beautiful Icelandic wilderness. With multicolored rhyolite mountains, pristine glaciers, natural hot springs, black deserts and lush forest to see, the Laugavegur trail is a hiker's paradise.

If you're interested in taking on this incredible adventure, then have a look through this guide of everything you need to know about the Laugavegur trail before you plan your trip!

Quick Facts

• Elevation: 1,768  feet(539 meters)
• Highest point: 3,474 feet (1,059 meters)
• Difficulty: moderate - difficult
• Length: 34 miles (55 kilometers)
• Duration: 3 - 5 days
• No permit required
• High season is in July and August

Laugavegur Trail Overview

The Laugavegur Trail is located in Iceland's southern highlands and is a straight route from Landmannalauger to Þórsmörk, also known as Thórsmörk (Thor's wood) .

It is typically done from north to south by starting at Landmannalauger, with its multicolored mountains, and ending in Þórsmörk, where the famous Eyjafjallajökull volcano is.

The route is 34 miles (55km) long and is generally completed in 4 days. There are also several quick walks you can do in the evenings from most accommodation points, which help to showcase more of Iceland's stark beauty and make your trip more worthwhile.

The huts and camps are open from late June until the end of August as these are the best months to take on the trek.

This is a moderate-to-difficult trek. As there are some steep areas and rivers that need to be waded through.

You can complete the trail with an average level of fitness but you should prepare yourself for some challenging sections and train your body for walking long distances in the time leading up to your trek.

Each day will require you to walk between 7.5 to 9 miles (12 - 15 km). The elevation varies from 130 - 1,608 feet (40 - 490 meters) each day with the highest point reaching 3,474 feet (1,059 meters) at Hrafntinnusker.

You'll begin the trek by travelling to Landmannalauger, which is located in Iceland's highlands and surrounded by striking, multi-colored rhyolite mountains.

From here you'll begin the long walk, passing through the Laugabraun lava field and ascending onto the Brennisteinsalda plateau, which offers breathtaking views of the colorful landscape.

You'll also pass the Stórihver hot spring, which will probably be the only patch of green you see on your first day.  On the walk from Hrafntinnusker to Alftavan you will see numerous hot springs and ravines as you make your way up the Háskerðingur mountain for a view that shouldn't be missed!

As you descend the mountain, you'll enter into different terrain of dark palagonite and glistening glaciers until you reach Alftavan. You'll then travel past ancient volcanoes, through black desert land and flowing rivers into the lush farmland of Emstrur.

The last leg of the journey involves more river crossings and a descent into beautiful green land, which is a dramatic contrast to the dark deserts you pass through on the way.

Þórsmörk is a lush valley, filled with flourishing vegetation and flowers. Once you arrive here you should consider spending some more time exploring the scenic protected area.

Please Note:  There are many spots along the Laugavegur trail that require great caution as they are either very steep or require you to wade through water which can be very slippery. Be very careful as you step to avoid injuring yourself or spraining your ankles. It's recommended that you wade across the river hand-in-hand.

The weather along the trail can be very unpredictable so make sure to check the weather before you start walking each day. Also check whether it's safe with your guide or the hut warden.

Do not attempt to continue your walk if there have been warnings of bad weather, wait at the huts until it has cleared. Getting caught in a bad storm is very dangerous as the visibility will be poor and you can easily get lost.

Also be aware that you'll be sharing rooms with other travellers in the huts as they are built like dormitories with bunk beds and are unisex. So remember to pack earplugs if you struggle to sleep in a room with other people. 

Laugavegur Trail Map & Guidebook

The Laugavegur Trail: A Hiking Companion to Iceland's Famous Trek is a detailed and easy-to-follow guide to Iceland's most famous and popular trail.

In this guide you will find all the logistical information you need, simple maps, and writer's stories, adding colour to your journey with some useful regional context.

Laugavegur Trail Itinerary

Photo by Neil

This itinerary follows the direction and route of the Laugavegur that is usually taken, however you can choose to start in Þórsmörk and end in Landmannalauger if that's what you prefer.

There are only a few huts to overnight in along the trail so no matter which direction you choose, you'll most likely still stay at the same places.

Landmannalauger to Hrafntinnusker (7.5miles/12km)

The trail begins at Landmannalauger and you will start your journey with a simple hike through the Laugahraun lava field (the remnants of a volcanic eruption that happened in the 1400s) and gradually climb up the Brennisteinsalda volcanic mountain, which offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains with their multi-colored slopes.

After walking for about 3 to 4 hours you'll find the hot spring at Stórihver and continue on your way until you reach the Hrafntinnusker Hut where you will stay for the night.

There are also some fascinating ice caves a short distance from the hut which you should definitely consider seeing.

Ask the warden or your guide about the caves before you go as they can be unstable due to the geothermal activity of the area.

Hrafntinnusker to Alftavatn (7.5miles/12km)

The trail leads through a valley with several ravines and, if the weather is good, you'll hike up the Háskerðingur mountain and enjoy the magnificent view.

You'll then leave behind the beautiful mountains and travel into the darker terrain of the palagonite mountains sitting in stark contrast with pristine white glaciers.

The trail descends quite steeply on the Jökultungur and leads onto the lush river banks of the Grashagakvísl. You'll then walk the last mile or two on flat land and wade through a stream before reaching the huts at the serene Alftavatn lake .

Alftavatn to Emstrur (9.5miles/15km)

The third leg of the trail is more difficult as there are some steep sections that you will need to be careful of as well as multiple river crossings.

The Laugavegur trail leads over the Brattháls Ridge, into the Hvanngil ravine, and across the Bratthálskvísl river. After wading across the river you'll pass two huts, which could be chosen as accommodation instead of Alftavatn because of their close proximity.

You then walk over the Kaldaklofskvíslon river on a bridge and take a path leading south to Emstrur.

You'll have to wade through another river before reaching a bridge over the Nyrðri Emstrur River that will lead onto the trail to the huts. 

From Emstrur you can walk to the spectacular Markarfljótsgljúfur canyon , which is 200 m deep and showcases some of the most incredible views of the Laugavegur trail.

Emstrur to Þórsmörk (9.5miles/15km)

The final stretch of the Laugavegur trail takes you on a very steep path down the Syðri-Emstruá River canyon and across a bridge over the rushing river.

You'll then trek through Almenningar, a hilly terrain where there are several more rivers to cross including the Þröngá River, which is the deepest river you need to wade through on the Laugavegur trail.

Once you make it to the other side of the river you will find yourself in the forested valley of Þórsmörk, which lies close to the famous Eyjafjallajokull and Mýrdalsjökull glaciers.

This concludes the Laugavegur trail, however some people choose to continue another 12 miles to Skogar, which is a beautiful little village known for its glorious Skogafoss Waterfall - a sight definitely worth seeing while you're in the area.

Video Overview

A beautiful video overview of Laugavegur trail in Iceland from Sawyer` Burnett .   The clip  (3:35 min long) was filmed in early September of 2017. 

Laugavegur Trail Important Details

Best time to go.

The Laugervegur Trail is only open from about mid-June to the end of August as that is when the weather is the best and the trail is safe to attempt.

This is the summer time in Iceland when weather conditions are most favorable.

The weather can be very unpredictable so the huts close down for the rest of the year and hiking the trail is not recommended. Most tour operators will only run their tours from July through to August.

The Laugavegur Trail is a moderate to difficult trek and can be done with an average level of fitness. It's recommended to train before your trip by going on more long-distance hikes or walks to help improve your endurance.

There are some steep parts of the trail which are more difficult so trek slowly and be careful. Keep in mind that there are also some rivers that you will need to wade through so prepare to get your feet wet !

You should not cross any rivers by yourself so if you're alone, it's advised that you wait for other hikers so you can go hand-in-hand through the water.

Extra tips for staying safe:

• Keep dry and warm to avoid hypothermia
• Leave your travel details online at Safetravel.is
• You should download the Icelandic Emergency App onto your phone
• List your name on the safety lists at the huts
• Do not cross rivers by yourself and walk across them hand-in-hand
• Pack a First Aid Kit
• Pack a compass, map or GPS in case you lose your way
• Stay hydrated!
• Check the weather before you set off for the day and listen to the wardens if they tell you it's not safe to continue

Laugavegur Trail FAQ

What gear/equipment do i need to bring.

You will need to take a sleeping bag , First Aid Kit, sun cream, water bottle, map/ GPS , compass, camera , sunglasses and food. You also need to pack your own toiletries.

There is only toilet paper and soap at the huts. Hiking poles are optional but can be useful on the steep sections of the trail to help keep your balance. Gaiters are also recommended but are not essential.

There is limited electricity at the huts so if you wish to charge your cell-phone or camera, it is recommended that you bring a power bank/battery pack with you. If you are camping, you will need a tent and cooking equipment .

What clothes should I pack?

You should pack multiple layers that you can take on or put off as you get hot or cold. Good quality, thermal clothing is best.

You will need to pack hiking socks, thermal underwear, water and windproof trousers and jacket, fleece or down jacket , light long-sleeved layers, swimwear, a warm hat, gloves and a pair of good quality, worn in hiking boots .

Your hiking boots are the most important item so make sure they provide ankle support and are well worn-in before your trip. You will also need a light pair of shoes that are suitable for wading through rivers in. Avoid cotton clothing as it absorbs moisture and will become very uncomfortable.

Is drinking water available at the huts?

Clean, drinking water is available at the huts so you can fill up your water bottles after each day. You can also fill up your bottle with water from the rivers and streams that you pass along the way.

While it may contain a tiny bit of soil, it is perfectly safe to drink.

Will I be sharing a room with other travelers at the huts?

Yes, the huts have dormitory style rooms with multiple bunk beds in them so you will be sharing with fellow travelers.

Be sure to pack earplugs and a sleeping mask if you're a light sleeper or aren't used to sharing a room.

Is there Wi-Fi/ cellphone reception at the huts?

Reception is very limited along the Laugavegur trail and there is no Wi-Fi at the huts. There are certain spots along the trail where you may find reception but it's not very reliable.

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About the author 

Mila Whitman

Mila has been to 5 continents, visited over 40 countries and hiked across some of the most famous mountain ranges including the Andes and the Atlas Mountains. As an AMS sufferer she learned a few techniques to reduce the symptoms and the effects on her hiking adventures.

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Travelling Without a Passport

The Ultimate Guide to the Salkantay Trek (What to Bring, How to Do It, What to Expect)

As one of the new seven wonders of the world with its alluring scenery and majestic ruins, Machu Picchu has become an extremely popular destination in South America. The landmark’s overwhelming demand has made the road less travelled (the Salkantay Trek) ever more enticing compared to the busiest route: the Inca Trail.

(discover here the training for Machu Picchu )

The Salkantay Trek will take you on a journey through the flora and fauna of the Andean Jungle to the sacred Salkantay Mountain before reaching the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.

Travel to: Machu Picchu

Since it can be challenging to discover information on this lesser known route, we have gathered everything you need to know about taking the Salkantay Trek. In particular you will find the perks of choosing Salkantay over the Inca trail, tips for booking your trip and detailed trail information.

Perks of Opting for Salkantay over the Inca Trail:

What can you expect from salkantay tour.

While the Inca Trail may be the most well-known route to Machu Picchu, this does not necessarily mean it is the best trail. The Salkantay Trek has many benefits over Inca that are unrealized by most adventurers.

1. Booking Flexibility

In order to get a permit for the Inca trail, it is advised to book 6 months in advance, which certainly puts a hitch in the plans of spontaneous travelers. This is because the Inca trail only authorizes 500 hikers to enter the trail each day. Salkantay has no permit limitations, which allows for decreased booking lead time and more flexibility.

See Also: What You Need to Take and to Know About Trekking to Machu Picchu

2. Less Crowds

Despite permit limits, the renowned Inca trail can get quite crowded. This can paint the experience with frustrating shades of touristy. The Salkantay trek allows you to go off the beaten path for a more secluded adventure, which means increased space to embrace your inner Inca.

3. Mountain and Jungle Scenery

While the Inca trail offers additional ancient ruins, the Salkantay Trek will allow you to discover some of the most remarkable features of Mother Nature’s beauty. Over the course of the Salkantay Trek, you’ll dip your feet in the beautiful glacial lake of Humantay, traverse past the Salkantay Mountain (the highest peak in the Willkapampa range), descend into the lush, subtropical cloud forest, and harvest and roast your own coffee from the region’s local coffee farm. These nature-rich experiences boast a wide variety of scenery, with the best Inca ruins left as the final reward at the end.

Do you want to travel through Peru as part of a small group tour? Check our options here .

4. Bonus Excursions – Ziplining or Hot Springs

Whether you are an adventure junkie or rejuvenation fiend the Salkantay Trek has the excursion for you. On the fourth day of your journey, you can opt to go ziplining at Cola de Mono (the highest zipline in South America) or to be transported to an oasis where you can get a well-deserved soak in the hot springs of Colcamayu. These excursions are unique to the Salkantay Trek.

5. Cost Effectiveness

Because the Inca trail is in such high demand, it is easier to find a budget-friendly tour via the Salkantay route. Additionally, the money that you do spend will likely go a longer way on the Salkantay Trek.

Guide to the Salkantay Trek: How to Book the Trek

The Salkantay Trek is open all year round, but note how much rain (and mud) you are willing to handle before booking. The Peruvian Andes has two seasons: wet season and dry season.

• Dry Season : late April to mid-October
• Wet Season : mid-October to late April
• Rainiest months : December, January and February
• Peak Season : May to September
• Shoulder Season : mid-March to May; October to mid-November
• Off Season : mid-November to mid-March

The Salkantay trail will be busiest during May to September, but it will still be less crowded than the Inca trail during these times. Consider booking your trip for late April or early October to avoid both rain and trail congestion.

Travel to: Trekking in Peru

Info on Hiking Permits

Hiking permits are not required for the Salkantay Trek, however, you do need a ticket to enter Machu Picchu, the ancient Inca citadel. If you plan on hiking Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain once you reach the final Inca ruin at the end of the trek, a permit for these mountains are required. The Huayna Picchu hike is the more popular trek, restricted to 400 permits per day, so be sure to book well in advance.

Tour or Solo Trek

Note that the Salkantay Trek (unlike the Inca trail) can also be done without a tour. This requires a lot of extra preparation and separate bookings for buses, trains, excursions, Machu Picchu entrance tickets and more. If extensive trip planning, trail meal preparations and negotiations with local are your forte, then the solo trek is for you.

That being said, most people opt for the tour so they can spend less time organizing the trail and more time enjoying it. Either way, choose the option that best suits your trekking style.

Booking Lead Time

It is recommended that you book your tour for the Salkantay Trek as soon as you have decided upon your dates. However, if your plans are subject to change (as is often the case), you can book this trail with many tour companies merely a few weeks in advance or even when you arrive in Cusco (not recommended).

Additional excursions and hikes require more lead time than the Salkantay Trek booking itself (such as the Huayna Picchu hike). If Machu Picchu is the focus of your visit in Peru, do not leave booking until the last minute as spots aren’t guaranteed. Regardless if you decide to book a tour or go solo, we recommend booking your trip as far in advance as possible .

Packing List

• Passport (you need it to enter Machu Picchu)
• Layers of clothes (to account for cold nights/mornings and very warm days)
• Clean outfit (for your day in Machu Picchu after a shower in Aguas Calientes)
• Bathing suit (or clothes to soak in if you opt for the hot springs excursion)

Download the Complete Machu Picchu Packing List Here

See Also: What You Need to Take and Know About Trekking to Machu Picchu

Guide to the Salkantay Trek: Trail Details

Number of days.

The Salkantay Trek is typically completed in 5 days and 4 nights . It is also possible to do it in 4 days and 3 nights if you opt out of certain sites and are willing to go at a faster pace.  

Trail Specs

Difficulty : Medium to Difficult

Maximum Altitude : 4,600m (15,090ft)

Total Distance : 74km (45.98 miles)

As you ascend from Cusco to the peak altitude, you will be moving from warm climate at low elevation to temperatures near freezing. Be prepared for changing and sometimes unpredictable weather.

Dry season temperature :

• Day : 20ºC – 25ºC (68ºF – 77ºF)
• Night : -1ºC – 7ºC (30ºF – 45ºF)

Wet season temperature :

• Day : 17ºC – 22ºC (63ºF – 72ºF)
• Night : 4ºC – 10ºC (39ºF – 50ºF)

Guide to the Salkantay Trek: Trek Overview

Your typical lares trek itinerary.

Travel to: Machu Picchu via the Salkantay Trail

The Salkantay Trek begins in Cusco. Be sure to arrive a day or two before your journey begins to acclimatize yourself with the high altitude.

Day 1 – Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa – Salkantaypampa

From the city of Cusco, a 3 hour drive by bus or car will take you to the town of Mollepata. From here you will either hike or take another transport to Sayllapata before trekking to Soraypampa. The first day will end at Salkantaypampa. Day 1 is the gentlest day of hiking, which allows you extra time to adjust to the altitude.

Day 2 – Salkantaypampa – Soyrococha – Abra Salkantay / El Passo – Huaracmachay – Colpapampa

Prepare yourself well for day two as it includes some of the most challenging parts of the entire Salkantay Trek. After hiking from Salkantaypampa to Soyrococha, you will encounter multiple switchbacks that increase in steepness as you climb. This zig-zag trail is called the 7 culebras (7 snakes).

The view of Salkantay from the top of the Culebras is remarkable. While ascending to reach Soyrococha, you may notice the cool, thin air due to the high altitude, be sure to pace yourself and dress appropriately. After continuing upwards, you will finally reach the peak at the Salkantay pass then begin the descent.

Here the scenery will change from the mountainous vista to the dense forest jungle as you go from the Salkantay pass down to Huaracmachay and then to Colpapampa.

Day 3 – Collpapampa- La Playa

Day 3 offers majestic waterfalls, the Ceja de Selva jungle zone, and a wide variety of plants, flowers and birds. The morning will begin with 3 hours of comfortable trekking from Collpapampa, along the Salkantay river to La Playa. La Playa is a small town offering one of the largest lodging on the trail. Depending on your tour, you may spend time on a coffee plantation where you can harvest and roast your own coffee.

Optional : Hot Springs in Colcamayu (in Santa Teresa)

This option is available on either day 3 or day 4

Day 4 – La Playa – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes

Day 4 offers a number of route and activity options for getting to Aguas Calientes, with the Llactapata (Inca Ruin) being the most common. These are typically agreed upon with your tour group before departure.

Option 1 : Hot Springs in Colcamayu

Option 2 : Llactapata (Inca Ruin)

Option 3 : Zip-lining at Cola de Mono

Whichever option you choose, day 4 will end in the town of Aguas Calientes where you will get to stay in a hostel or hotel for the first time on the trip. Be sure to take advantage of the shower before your day at Machu Picchu.

Day 5 – Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

There are two options to get from Aguas Calientes up to Machu Picchu.

Option 1: Take the Steps

The stairs up to Machu Picchu has over 2,000 steps and can take a good 1.5 hours. If you choose this option, be sure to depart early to avoid long queues at Machu Picchu and be prepared to arrive very sweaty.  

Option 2: Take the Bus

The first bus departs around 5:30am with queues beginning at 5am during peak season. The journey takes 30 minutes and tickets cost around USD$20. This is a great option to save your time and energy for the day viewing Machu Picchu.

While in Machu Picchu, there is the option to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain. Recall, both treks require a permit, so be sure to book well in advance. The more popular Huayna Picchu has only two climbing times (7am and 10am). If you have a permit for this hike, plan your schedule for day 5 accordingly.

After exploring Machu Picchu, you can either walk (1.5 hours) or take a bus (0.5 hours or longer with queues) back down to Aguas Calientes. From there a combination of downward trekking and transportation will be required to return back to Cusco.

Tour group travelers will likely have train tickets booked to Ollantaytambo where you will then catch a mini-bus or car back to Cusco. Solo travelers may trek down to take the bus from Hidroelectrica Station to Cusco. This is a longer, but cheaper route than getting a train.

As the trek finishes back in Cusco on day 5, be sure to plan accommodations and a well-deserved day of rest to recover after your Salkantay journey.

"Two roads diverged in a wood and I - I took the one less travelled by, and that has made all of the difference."

- Robert Frost

Featured Image by: Marco Havnanian

Tiana is a travel enthusiast from Canada, passionate about discovering the Earth's beauty through excursions in nature. Over the past year alone, she has completed the West Coast Trail, gone spelunking in the Capital of Caves: Budapest, and went snowshoeing in the Alps (to name a few), with more adventures to come!

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Torres del Paine ‘W’ Trek: trail guide

The goal of the Torres del Paine ‘W’ trek isn’t to summit a mountain or circle a range. It is simply to take the trekker on a tour of one of the most beautiful landscapes in the world.

Patagonia’s Torres del Paine National Park is the kind of place where travel writers run out of superlatives. Vast towers of weathered granite rise like natural skyscrapers above lakes of translucent blue. Glaciers the size of inland seas surge and tumble down from wind-carved mountain ranges. Wildflowers sprout from foothills ranged by pumas and Andean condors. Through all this natural munificence winds the 50-mile Torres del Paine ‘W’ trek, a layercake of scenic splendour and one of the most famous long-distance walks in the world.

The goal of the W trek isn’t to summit a mountain, circle a range or reach an important landmark. It is, quite simply, to take the trekker on a tour of the most beautiful landscapes in Torres del Paine without thought to start point, end point or continuity.

Torres del Paine ‘W’ Trek: the stats

Start: Refugio Torre Central | End: Refugio Paine Grande | Length: 80km / 50 miles | Ascent: 2,730m | Season: November to March | Difficulty: Medium

The journey

“The views are to die for,” says Fran Prince, who walked the route in a semi-leisurely six days. “Hills, snow-capped mountains, miles of steppe as far as you can see. I was knocked sideways by the geology, the strange plants and the birds – I clocked up plenty of species, including Chilean swallows, Chilean flamingos and southern lapwings. In terms of the general experience, it’s hot when you walk, cold when you stop and we all ended up aching in various places!”

In payment for those aches and pains, you’ll be rewarded with an ever-changing backdrop of incredible terrain. From the Refugio Las Torres, the route rises steeply to the base of Las Torres themselves – the ethereally-shaped pinnacles that gave the national park its name. Their bald granite silhouettes are a complete contrast to the beech woods and flower-marked slopes of the French Valley and, later on, to the multi-peaked marvels of the snowy Los Cuernos, viewed across the green shores of a mountain lake. Towards the end of the trek you’ll be blindsided by the Grey Glacier, a vast river of foaming ice that marches into the waters of Lago Grey. And, in a final burst of scenic brilliance, the W trek ends with close-up views of Paine Grande, the highest peak in the national park.

The Paine Grande campsite on the ‘W’ Trek. Credit: Shutterstock

Attempt the W trek in mid-summer, and you’ll be sharing the well-trodden tracks with plenty of other aesthetes. The route never gets too overrun, though, because accommodation is limited and needs to be booked in advance (ideally, as soon as the campsite booking system opens in August). An ingenious and enjoyable way to make the experience more sustainable is to swap the flight from Santiago with a trip on the Navima passenger ferry, which takes the scenic route through the wild Patagonian fjords.

Torres del Paine ‘W’ Trek: an alternative route

If you’re particularly crowd-adverse, there’s a quieter extension to the W trek, also named after a letter of the alphabet. The 110km / 70-mile ‘O’ trek continues the W on to complete a full loop of the Cordillera Paine mountain group. The scenery is less famous but far wilder and more remote, as you cross high passes, loop around alpine lakes and surprise unwary wildlife. Camp only in designated areas and avoid the temptation to feed wildlife to leave a lighter trace.

If you want to explore other international treks of a lifetime, check out these other bucket list treks and our expert advice on how to hike them – as well as their lesser trodden alternatives.

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Ultimate Guide to the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

The 5 day Salkantay Trek is one of the best alternative trails to Machu Picchu in Peru.

It takes you to stunning glacier lakes and across snow-capped mountain passes. Along the way, you’ll enter cloud forests, walk ancient Inca pathways, and reach Peru’s most famous landmark, Machu Picchu.

I did the Salkantay Trek in July 2023 and was blown away by its beauty.

Yes, it’s a challenging hike. But it’s also incredibly rewarding.

Here’s everything you need to know about the Salkantay Trek, including what to expect along the way and how hard it is. I also share why I chose the Salkantay Trek vs Inca Trail and whether it was really worth it.

Quick Navigation

Salkantay Trek overview

• Total distance: 74 km
• Time needed: 5 days (the 5th day is at Machu Picchu)
• Highest point: 4,630 m at the Salkantay Pass
• Difficulty: Challenging
• Starting point: Cusco

What is the Salkantay Trek

The classic Salkantay Trek is a 5 day hike to Machu Picchu. Named after the Salkantay Mountain, it’s one of the most scenic trails through the Peruvian Andes.

It’s easily accessible from Cusco (I recommend staying here in Cusco before the trek), but the trailhead officially starts in Soraypampa, a 3-hour drive away.

The Salkantay Trek lies in the shadow of the more famous Inca Trail. But the two offer a very different experience.

Salkantay Trek vs Inca Trail

The Salkantay Trek is a popular alternative hike to Machu Picchu.

Below are a few differences and why I chose to hike the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu (instead of the Inca Trail).

1. The scenery & archaeology

The Salkantay Trek is said to be the most beautiful of the two hikes. It takes you over the mountains and crosses diverse landscapes.

It’s also a higher altitude trek that reaches 4,630 m above sea level. However, you only see ruins and authentic Inca pathways on day 4 of the Salkantay Trek.

2. Tour costs & availability

There are no restrictions to the number of hikers on the Salkantay Trek. This makes it a great option for travelers who don’t have fixed dates yet or who missed out on the Inca Trail.

3. Difficulty

The Salkantay Trek is known to be harder than the Inca Trail.

This is due to the higher elevation, the challenging mountain terrain, and the total walking distance, which is 74 km on the Salkantay Trail vs 42 km on the Inca Trail.

4. Arrival at Machu Picchu

The Salkantay Trek does not actually end at Machu Picchu. Instead, you finish in Aguas Calientes, the closest town to Machu Picchu.

Your last night is at a hotel in this town, and you’ll visit Machu Picchu the next day. You can either take a bus or walk to the main entrance. But regardless, you’ll be joined by every tourist going to the famous site.

With the Inca Trail, you follow the Inca’s route to the iconic Sun Gate before hiking down to the lost city of Machu Picchu.

But there’s a lot more to consider when deciding which to choose. I recommend reading my blog post comparing the Inca Trail to the Salkantay trek.

How long is the Salkantay Trek

There are two options for doing the Salkantay Trek: a 5 day tour or a 4 day tour.

With both of these, you’ll spend the last day exploring Machu Picchu.

5 day Salkantay Trek

The most popular Salkantay Trek itinerary is a 5 day, 4 night hike. I chose this option and recommend you do the same.

This classic route takes you to all the iconic locations, including Humantay Lake, Salkantay Pass, and Llactapata Ruins.

During the 5 day Salkantay Trek, you walk the entire journey from the starting point in Soraypampa to Aguas Calientes town.

Top tip: From my experience, day 4 of the 5 day trek was extremely difficult but 100% worth it. This is the section you’ll miss if you do the 4 day tour. It’s the only day you actually walk parts of the Inca Trail, and the views from Llactapata are incredible.

4 day Salkantay Trek

If you’re short on time, you can opt for the 4 day tour instead.

This is not the ideal option, but it’s still a fantastic tour if you don’t have much time in Peru.

Like the 5 day Salkantay Trek, the 4 day tour starts in Soraypampa and ends at Aguas Calientes.

So what’s the difference?

On day 3, you’ll walk most of the Salkantay Trail. At lunchtime, you’ll separate from the 5 day tour and take a bus to Hidroelectrica Train Station. From here, you’ll walk to Aguas Calientes.

This means you skip the Cocalmayo Hot Springs as well as the hike to Llactapata Ruins.

Things to know about the 5 Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

Here are a few things to consider if you’re planning on doing the Salkantay Trek.

Salkantay trek difficulty

The Salkantay trail is a difficult hike, but it’s achievable for most people.

So, what makes it difficult?

Firstly, the high altitude at the Salkantay Pass, which sits at 4,630 m.

The ascent up the pass is the hardest part of the trek. This is because there’s less oxygen in the air, and it’s a struggle to breathe.

As a result, you’ll walk very slowly, and you may experience symptoms of altitude sickness. The freezing cold temperatures don’t make it any easier.

Secondly, it’s a long distance to walk.

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a 74 km trail, and you’re averaging 19 km per day over 4 days (because the last day is at Machu Picchu).

This, combined with the hilly terrain, only adds to its difficulty.

Here’s my post on how difficult the Salkantay Trek really is . It covers everything you need to know to get through the 5 day trek.

Best time to hike the Salkantay Trek

It’s possible to do the Salkantay Trek all year round.

But most tour operators don’t offer tours in February. This is because the route is often closed due to maintenance.

Here’s when you should plan your trip.

Dry Season: Best time to do the Salkantay Trail

Hiking season in Peru is from April to September.

During this time, you can expect clear skies and warmer temperatures. It’s a great time of year to be on the trails, and I recommend doing the Salkantay Trek during these months.

July and August is high season and the busiest time to visit Peru. The trails will be teeming with people, and Machu Picchu will be extremely crowded.

However, don’t be put off by this.

I did the Salkantay Trek in July and had a great time. But make sure you get to Machu Picchu early in the day to avoid the crowds.

Rainy Season

The wet season is from December to March. The weather can be unpredictable during this time, and you should be prepared for a few days of rain.

This makes the Salkantay Trek more dangerous, especially as you go up the Salkantay Pass. There is also a greater chance of last-minute cancellations due to bad weather.

Packing for the Salkantay Trek

The most important thing to pack for the Salkantay Trek is your Passport. You need this to enter Machu Picchu and will not be allowed in without it.

In terms of hiking gear, most tour companies provide a small duffel bag to trekkers.

This will allow you to store up to 7 kg of your clothing and personal items for the trek.

Yes – there’s a 7kg weight limit, which includes you’re sleeping bag. This is not a lot, considering it’s a 5 day trek, so you need to pack lightly and smartly.

Accommodation along the Salkantay Trek

The accommodation along the Salkantay Trek differs between tour operators.

This ranges from basic and luxury camping to glass domes and cabins. Your last night is spent at a hotel in Aguas Calientes.

For most tours, there are no showers on the first night. But from night two onwards, you can treat yourself to magnificent hot showers.

My mom and I did the Salkantay Trek with Inkayni Peru Tours , and I highly recommend them.

We camped for the first three nights, but it was more like a glamping experience, and we were extremely comfortable.

Each day, we arrived at our campsite with our tents already set up and offered snacks and hot chocolate as a reward for getting through the day.

One positive about camping is that you have the option of staying higher up the Salkantay Pass on night one. This was a huge advantage as we got a head start to the day and had the Salkantay Pass all to ourselves for sunrise the next morning.

Salkantay Trek highlights

If I haven’t convinced you to do the Salkantay Trek, this next part will!

Here are some of the highlights – most of which you won’t experience on the Inca Trail.

Humantay Lake

The first day of the Salkantay Trek starts with a bang!

After driving a few hours from Cusco, you’ll be dropped off at the trailhead in Soraypampa. Shortly after, the uphill hike to Humantay Lake begins.

Humantay Lake is a stunning turquoise glacier lake that sits at 4,200 m.

It’s a popular day trip from Cusco, so this part of the trek will be busy. But after returning from the lake, you’ll have the trail to yourself.

Salkantay Pass

With an elevation of 4,630 m, the Salkantay Pass is the highest point of the Salkantay Trek.

Getting to the pass takes a lot of mental and physical energy. But standing at the top and looking on to Salkantay Mountain is a feeling you’ll never forget.

From here, the trek only gets easier (well, until day 4) .

Cocalmayo Hot Springs

On the third day, you’ll reach your campsite at lunchtime. This gives you a free afternoon to explore the nearby attractions.

You can either visit the Cocalmayo Hot Springs or do a coffee tour. There’s even zip-lining!

I visited the Cocalmayo Hot Springs, and it’s just what my body needed.

There are four natural pools here with water of varying temperatures. We spent an hour relaxing in them, and it was a great break from the long trekking days.

Outside the hot springs, you’ll find kiosks selling refreshments and snacks.

Most people doing the Salkantay Trek congregate here, and it’s a great place to enjoy a few beers and meet other hikers.

I nearly didn’t visit these hot springs because of what other people said.

Yes, the water isn’t boiling hot.

Yes, it can get crowded on weekends.

But after three days of hiking the Salkantay Trek, your body will not care!

You’ll love the warm waters and will want to sit back and relax.

Llactapata archeological site

Llactapata is an important archaeological site near Machu Picchu. It’s less explored than other Inca sites and offers unspoiled views of Huayna Picchu Mountain.

To get to Llactapata, you follow the same trail the Incas did. This is the only part of the Salkantay Trek that includes the Inca route.

It’s a strenuous uphill hike from Lucmabamba to Llactapata. After exploring the site, you’ll descend the other side of the mountain, which is equally as challenging.

If you do the 4 day Salkantay Trek, you will skip this section of the trail.

Machu Picchu: The Highlight of The Salkantay Trail

And finally, the most iconic site on the 5 day Salkantay Trek: Machu Picchu.

This wonder of the world completely blew me away. I had heard so much about Machu Picchu and thought it might be overrated.

But I can confirm that it is not!

Machu Picchu is a fascinating place, and our exceptional guide, Percy, played a big part in my experience of visiting it.

Over the past 5 days on the Salkantay Trek, Percy had taken us on this incredible journey through time and nature that culminated with the history of Machu Picchu.

He shared stories of Pachamama (mother nature), the Incas, their mystery, and Peruvian culture.

His passion for his country and its people was one of the most beautiful things, and I learned so much from him.

You can visit Machu Picchu without a guide, but you’ll be missing out on so much.

Salkantay Trek itinerary

Below is an outline of the itinerary we followed.

• Day 1: Cusco – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake – Soyroccocha
• Day 2: Soyroccocha – Salkantay Pass – Wayraqmachay – Chaullay
• Day 3: Chaullay – Lucmabamba – Cocalmayo Hot Springs – Lucmabamba
• Day 4: Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes
• Day 5: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo – Cusco

Salkantay trekking tours

I booked my Salkantay Trek tour through Inkayni Peru Tours after reading all these positive reviews , and they were fantastic.

Inkayni is a local tour operator specializing in smaller group tours and personalized services. And that’s exactly what I got.

I did the Salkantay Trek with my mom, who is in her 60s. It was a tough hike for both of us, but we made it to the end – and I have no doubt that you will too.

Our guide was patient and kind and offered all the support and encouragement we needed.

Inkayni took care of absolutely everything for us, from the Machu Picchu entrance ticket to the scenic train ride.

This was a special mother/daughter trip that was made extra special thanks to the team at Inkayni Peru Tours.

Other Salkantay Trek tours

Unlike the Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek doesn’t need to be booked months in advance.

You can arrive in Cusco and book a tour for the next day. That’s how easy it is.

But I do not recommend this.

Every tour offers a different experience and itinerary. So don’t book with the first operator you come across.

If you’re worried about your fitness levels and the high altitude. Or if you’re questioning whether you will be able to finish the hike, I recommend opting for a smaller group tour like the one I did with Inkayni. You’ll enjoy the experience a lot more as you won’t feel rushed or pressured to walk faster.

Some Salkantay tours cater specifically to backpackers. This means you’ll be one of eighteen people in your group, the food won’t be anything to write home about, and you will have less one-on-one time with your guide.

If you’re doing the Salkantay Trek on a budget, this might be your best option.

Do your research

But I cannot stress the importance of researching before booking your tour.

I met a few travelers along the route who complained nonstop about the quality of their food and camping gear provided by their tour company. They also moaned that their guide’s English was not perfect.

I soon realized that they had paid next to nothing for their tour. I’m surprised they were even given food!

I don’t know how their guides and porters are expected to live off that measly amount, and I felt sorry for their trekking team.

If you’re paying for the cheapest tour, you cannot expect a five-star experience. I understand that not everyone has the budget, but you need to be realistic about what you’ll get from a cheaper operator.

Tips for the 5 day Salkantay Trek

• Check whether your tour includes Machu Picchu entrance tickets. If not, book this in advance and choose Circuit 2.
• Spend at least two nights in Cusco to acclimatize to the higher altitude.
• Rent hiking poles, as there are a lot of uphill and downhill sections.
• Tip your trekking team at least 10% of your total tour cost. While tipping is not mandatory, it is expected and means the world to the team.

How long does it take to hike the Salkantay Trek?

The classic Salkantay Trek is 5 days and covers a distance of 74 km. Trekking time is 6 to 7 hours per day, except on the last day when you’re exploring Machu Picchu.

Is the Salkantay Trek worth it?

Yes! The Salkantay Trek is a magnificent trek through the Peruvian Andes to Machu Picchu.

Is the Salkantay Trek harder than the Inca Trail?

The Salkantay Trek is harder than the Inca Trail as it is a much further hike and reaches a high altitude on day two.

Is the Salkantay Trek dangerous?

No, the Salkantay Trek isn’t dangerous. But you need to acclimatize properly to ensure you don’t get altitude sickness as you ascend the Salkantay Pass.

What’s the difference between 4 and 5 day Salkantay Trek?

On the 4 day Salkantay Trek, you take a bus to Hidroelectrica instead of walking. This means you skip Llactapata, which is an archaeological site overlooking Huayna Picchu Mountain.

My Salkantay Trek review

I loved the 5 day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu.

It has everything you want from a multiday trek. Beautiful scenery where you’re immersed in nature. Challenging sections that will push you to your limits. Incredible archaeological sites that take you back in time. What more do you want?

The Salkantay Trek was one of the best things I did in Peru, and I highly recommend adding it to your itinerary.

Like it? Pin it!

Do you have any questions about the 5 day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu? Drop me a message in the comments section below!

Looking for more Peru travel inspiration? Check out my other posts!

• The Best Place to Visit the Amazon in Peru
• Laguna 69: Guide to The Best Day Hike in Peru
• How to Get to Laguna Paron in Huaraz
• Ultimate Guide to Laguna Llaca in Huaraz

Hi, I'm Carryn. I’m an adventure travel blogger trying to figure out my way through life by traveling and exploring. Join me as I share my travel guides and tips for life abroad. Find out more about me here .

Salkantay Trek Packing List: 60+ Things you need to pack

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• Salkantay Trek
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• Huchuy Qosqo Trek
• Ausangate Trek
• Vilcabamba Trek
• Choquequirao Trek
• Huayna Picchu
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• Humantay Lake
• Lake Titicaca
• Nazca Lines
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• Get A Trek Quote

4-Day Inca Trail – Ultimate Guide To The Classic Trek

The 4-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is celebrated as Peru’s most famous hike. This is one of the world’s most iconic trekking experiences and provides an awesome combination of breathtaking landscapes and ancient Incan sites.

This detailed, day-by-day guide of the 4-day Inca Trail is based on my personal experience.

In this article, I will give you insights on what to expect and how to prepare for this adventure of a lifetime.

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4-Day Inca Trail - Ultimate Guide To The Classic Trek

4 day / 3 night classic inca trail route and distance.

Our handy route map below shows the 4D/3N Classic route which typically departs from Cusco (3,399m / 11,151 ft) and ends at the iconic ruins of Machu Picchu (2,430m / 7,972 ft).

Please Note:  Regarding camping sites on the route map below, the 4D Inca Trail trek itinerary can vary from tour company to tour company. See more in our article on the best Inca Trail trekking companies for epic 4-day Inca Trail tours. 

The total trek distance from Cusco to Machu Picchu is roughly 45km (26 miles) and reaches a maximum altitude of 4,200m (13,775 ft). It is a moderately challenging trek that can be completed by most people, as long as they are fit and well acclimatized.

You may also like:

• How difficult is the Inca trail
• Training program for the Inca trail
• Avoiding altitude sickness on the Inca trail

What You Need To Know About Booking The Classic 4-Day Inca Trail

The first thing you need to know is that permits sell out fast! The trail is world-famous, so hikers should book their tickets 6 months to a year in advance. Only 500 permits are issued per day and half of those are reserved for porters/guides.

Although the classic trek is 4D/3N, most tour companies will arrange your pre and post-trek hotels. This means most tours are in fact 7D/6N (with one acclimatization day included).

The classic 4-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu should include your ticket to Machu Picchu. This is usually a Circuit #3 ticket. Most people consider this the best circuit as the tour goes through the citadel and to the top of the mountain. If you want to do another route, then you will need to purchase an additional ticket.

Check out our handy altitude profile for the 4-day Inca Trail below to give you a better idea of the elevation you'll experience during your trek. 

• What to do at Machu Picchu
• Hiking Huayna Picchu
• Machu Picchu history
• Facts about the Inca trail

Looking for a day tour? Here are my 5 favourite day tours around Cusco: 

• Rainbow Mountain day trip (with meals)
• Moray and Salt Mines Quad Bike Tour
• Sacred Valley day tour
• Humantay Lake day tour
• Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu entrance tickets

See more Cusco day trips .

Why Choose The 4-Day Inca Trail To Machu Picchu?

The Inca Trail is a chance to follow in the footsteps of ancient kings. For many, this is the one-and-only choice to do the original trek to Machu Picchu. Nothing beats the sense of achievement and wonder when you pass through the sun gate after 4 days of trekking.

The 4-Day Inca Trail gives you the best opportunity to see Peru’s sub-tropical Andean mountain environments. Trail habitats include cloud forests, alpine tundra and jungle landscapes. You will get to experience remote areas free from roads and human presence.

The impressive array of Inca archaeological sites is another top reason to hike the Inca Trail . Some of these ruins (Runcuracay, Phuyupatamarca, Wiñayhuayna, and Machu Picchu itself) are worthy of a visit on their own!

• Hiking the short 2-Day Inca Trail
• Cycling through the Inca Jungle Trek

4-Day Inca Trail To Machu Picchu - Daily Itinerary

Below is a typical itinerary for the 4D/3N classic route.

Day 1: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – KM82 – Wayllabamba

Day one consists of an early morning car or bus ride through the Sacred Valley, and a relatively easy ~12km (7.5 mi) trek.

You will be collected at your hotel early in the morning (usually between 05:00-06:00) by your tour operator and transported from Cusco into the Sacred Valley (some companies start their tour in Ollantaytambo).

The drive takes approximately 3 hours to reach the starting point, called KM82 (named as such as it is 82KM by train from Cusco).

On the drive, you will pass through the towns of Chinchero, Urabamba and Ollantaytambo. You may even stop for about an hour in either Urubamba and Ollantaytambo, where you can grab some breakfast and last minute supplies.

The trail from KM82 first crosses the Rio Vilcanota (often referred to as the Urubamba River) before climbing steeply up from the Rio Cusichaca to a small local village.

• Top things to see in the Sacred Valley
• Paragliding in Cusco
• Things to do and see in Cusco

On the other side of the village, you will see an Inca fort called Huillca Raccay. This was built as a strategic look-out point into the Urubamba valley and was likely used to control the Cusichaca valley.

You will also be able to see below you, on the other side of the river. From here, there is another impressive Inca site called Patallaqta.

Patallaqta was discovered by  Hiram Bingham in 1911, on the same expedition when he discovered Machu Picchu. It is an extensive Inca ruin that is thought to have been an agricultural settlement used to grow and supply food for the inhabitants of Machu Picchu.

Llactapata, an impressive Inca ruin discovered by Hiram Bingham in 1911.

The route continues for another 7-8km (4-5 mi) along a series of gradual undulations to the small village of Wayllabamba (sometimes spelled Wayllapampa), which means ‘grassy plain’ in Quechua, (3,000m / 9,842 ft).

You will most likely camp here from the night. However, some trekking companies continue a little further on to Inca trail campsites near Ayapata (3,300m / 10,827 ft).

Please Note: Wayllabamba is the point at which trekkers on the Salkantay / Inca Trail Combo trek join the Inca Trail. Pack animals are allowed up to this spot on the trail before porters carry on for the rest of the way up.

Day 2: Wayllabamba – Llulluchapampa – Warmiwanusca – Pacamayo

You will be waking up early for breakfast and to prepare for the toughest trekking day. Day 2 is similar in trekking distance to Day 1 which is about 11km (6.83 mi) but involves going up and over the Warmiwanusca Pass (aka Dead Women’s Pass), a 4,200m (13,779 ft) traverse.

The beginning of the trek is straightforward. After your first hour, you will reach a bridge that crosses the Huayruro river. Here, you will find a campsite which has toilets. If you feel the call of nature in the morning, it might be best to hold it in until you reach this point.

Fast Fact: 'Huayruro' refers to a small tree that has red and black seeds. You will commonly see these colours on the ponchos of porters from Ollantaytambo. For this reason, porters from this area are often called Huayruros.

From here, the trail begins to steepen. It winds its way through cloud forest terrain and after nearly hours of hiking, eventually reaches the small village of Llulluchapampa (3,800m / 12,460 ft).

After this juncture, you will trek another 1.5-2 hours to reach the top of Warmiwanusca Pass (aka Abra de Huarmihuañusca or ‘Dead Woman’s Pass). This notorious pass is situated at 4,200m (13,779 ft).

The route up can be hot and intense if the sun is out (wear sunscreen), or cold and cloudy and foggy with icy winds. Be prepared for all conditions by wearing multi-layered clothing.

The view from Dead Woman's Pass (4,200m) on the Inca Trail.

Now, you can celebrate your successful climb to the highest point of the Classic Inca Trail. After catching your breath for a few minutes, you will descend for about 2km (1.2 mi) on a steep trail to the campsite for that night. This camp is located at Pacaymayu (3,580m / 11,700 ft). You will be glad to know that there are toilet facilities here.

Please Note:  Dead Women’s Pass is named as such not because women died on the pass but rather for its shape. When viewed from the descending valley, the mountain slope resembles a supine woman.

Day 3: Pacamayu – Runkurakay – Sayacmarca – Phuyupatamarca – Winay Wayna

Day 3 is another challenging day that covers about 16km (9.94 mi) and traverses two small passes.

The day begins with an hour-long trek up to the ruins at Runkurakay (3,680m / 12,073 ft). This Inca site is believed to have been used as a watchtower over the Pacaymayu valley.

After a second hour’s trekking, you will reach the Runkurakay Pass (aka Abra de Runkuracay). This pass is the second of the Classic Inca Trails major passes. It has a maximum altitude of 4,000m / 13,123 ft. From here, you will be walking on beautifully paved pathways and stone staircases. These structures are still intact from the days of the Incas.

The first staircase down from Runkurakay Pass is relatively steep, so take care with your footing. You will reach the Sayacmarca ruins (3,650m / 12,000 ft) an hour or so after the second pass.

The purpose of Sayacmarca is still unknown but the site’s name means ‘Inaccessible Town’. This accurately describes its well-protected position at the foot of three steep cliffs. The main feature of these ruins is the beautiful stone staircase.

From here, the trail passes through an original Inca tunnel before climbing up to Phuyupatamarca, the third and final pass at 3,680m (12,073 ft). On a clear day, you will be presented with fantastic views of Salkantay Mountain (6,217m / 20,397 ft) in the south and Mount Veronica (5,860m / 19,226 ft) to the North.

Phuyupatamarca or Puyupatamarca is also known as 'La Ciudad entre la Niebla' ('The City Above the Clouds').

Just after the pass, you will reach Phuyupatamarca, one of the most impressive Incan sites on the trail (bar Machu Picchu). Phuyupatamarca or Puyupatamarca is also known as ‘La Ciudad entre la Niebla’ (‘The City Above the Clouds’). An apt description for a place 3,680m (12,073 ft) above sea level.

The site is accessed via a steep path that passes 5 original Incan baths. These may have been used for spiritual or ritual reasons.

Leaving Phuyupatamarca, you will encounter a staircase of 1,000 steps. Prepare your knees (and your mind) for a tough descent. Go slowly and make sure of your footing.

Wiñay Wayna, an Incan site near the final campsite of the same name, is located on the Inca Trail.

After 2-3 hours of trekking through the cloud forest, you will reach the campsite at Winay Huayna (which is the Quechua name for ‘Forever Young’).

Just south of the campsite are the ruins of Winay Huayna, situated at 2,650m / 8,694 ft. The area was likely used as a final resting spot before reaching Machu Picchu. The site has a number of Incan baths and were likely used in ritual cleansings in preparation for arrivals at Machu Picchu.

The view of Machu Picchu from Inti Punku (the Gate of the Sun).

Day 4: Winay Wayna – Inti Punku – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo – Cusco

From Winay Huayna, you will awake early (around 04:30) to have breakfast and start the 1.5-hour trek to Inti Punku (the Sun Gate), situated at 2,750m / 8,956 ft.

The initial part of this trek may happen before sunrise. In this case, you might need to use a head-torch (which you can find more details about on our Inca trail packing list ). Although, most operators only hit the trail around 05:30 when dawn breaks. The early departure is on account of trying to catch the sunrise over Machu Picchu. The first rays shine through between 06:30 and 07:00.

The trail from Winay Huayna runs through a cloud-forested contour path. After the forest, you will reach about 50 steep flights of stone stairs to Inti Punku.

At the top of the staircase, you will be presented with an unforgettable view as the famous Inca site of Machu Picchu is revealed through the Sun Gate.

You will get 30-40 minutes to soak in these first views of Machu Picchu from Inti Punku. Then, you will descend down a gradual path into the Citadel. From here, you will register with the authorities and put your backpack in storage.

Most tour operators include a full 2-3 hour tour of the city before giving you free time to explore the ruins. If you still have the energy and are not afraid of heights, then I highly recommend climbing Huayna Picchu (the iconic mountain behind Machu Picchu).

Please Note:  When climbing Huayna Picchu, you will need to book your place prior to arriving at Machu Picchu. There are only 400 climbing permits a day with two departure times (07:00 and 10:00am). Like the Inca trail, it is important to book early. You can get tickets here .

After exploring Machu Picchu for a few hours, you will either need to catch a bus or walk down to Machu Picchu town (aka Aguas Calientes) in the valley below. The bus trip is usually included in your Inca trail tour price (see cost to hike the Inca trail and cheap Inca trail tours ). The walk down takes approximately 2 hours and is worth considering as it provides fantastic views of Machu Picchu’s terraces.

Most tour operators will have booked a mid-afternoon train journey for you back to Ollantaytambo, where they will also have organized a bus or private car to transport you back to Cusco. If you depart from Aguas Calientes (2,040 m / 6,693 ft) at 15:00, you will get back to Cusco around 20:00.

The view of Machu Picchu from Huayna Picchu (aka Wayna Picchu or Wayna Pikchu).

Extended / 5-Day Inca Trail

One can also do a 5D/4N Inca Trail itinerary. These packages include a night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes and an additional day at Machu Picchu.

This is ideal for those who would like to spend more time at Machu Picchu (perhaps climbing Machu Picchu Mountain or Putucusi). With the 5-day Inca Trail, you will also have the opportunity to visit the hot springs at Aguas Calientes.

Alison Macallister

With a degree in Nature Conservation and experience working with wildlife including the Big 5, Alison works as a guide for a 5-star reserve. She enjoys sharing her passion for all things nature-related. She enjoys hiking, horseriding, 4x4 driving and kayaking.

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Alison, Your description of the Inca Trail is the most detailed and exciting one that I have read so far. I'm thoroughly impressed with your knowledge, training and passion for Nature Conservation. I also appreciate your maps and love your photographs.

Thank you so very much! Nancy Levyssohn [email protected]

Hi Nancy, thank you for those kind words, you’ve made my day! Glad that you have found this article useful.

Allison, thank you for this great break down!! We are retired military in our late 50s, but in great shape and have hiked in the Rockies and Sierras. This hike is one of our top bucket list items! We now know we want to look for a 5 day trip to enjoy the hot springs and extra day and that we have to reserve for the extra permit to do the hike up to the Mt over Machu Picchu. Now we just have to find a trip that fits our budget! Are there affordable air Bnb options for an additional night before the bike in Cuzco?

Hi Rob n Lisa, yes, there are tonnes of accommodation options in Cusco. AirBnB’s aren’t great in Cusco, you’re better offer searching for a hotel. Here are some recommendations: https://www.machupicchutrek.net/best-hotels-in-cusco-peru/ . In terms of a local trek operator, I recommend checking out Skyhook: https://www.skyhookadventure.com/go/machu-picchu

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Historic 75-mile trail from Moscow to Trinity-St. Sergius Lavra revived

Moscow, October 10, 2017

The historic trail connecting Moscow with the Trinity-St. Sergius Lavra in the city of Sergiev Posad has recently been revived, bringing back an ancient tradition of going on pilgrimage by foot to the centuries-old center of Russian Orthodox monasticism. A two-day “Road to the Lavra” extreme trek along the 75-mile trail will be held on October 14 and 15, according to the Russian Ministry of Culture .

The trek will begin at “zero kilometer” at the walls of the Moscow Kremlin, and finish at the walls of the Trinity-St. Sergius Lavra.

“The ‘Road to the Lavra’ is the first hiking trail in the Moscow region that aims to increase the touristic attractiveness of the region and to draw attention to a healthy lifestyle,” said Moscow Province Minister of Culture Oksana Kosareva. The path is a “revival of the historical Trinity road, by which Russian tsars and Orthodox pilgrims have prayerfully made their way to the holy monastery.”

According to znanietrail.ru , some of the main attractions along the route include Christ the Savior Cathedral, Ostankino and VDNX parks, a botanical garden, Holy Protection Church in Medvedkovo, a memorial park to Tsar Nicholas II, the Klyazma, Ucha, and Vorya Rivers, the memorial cross in honor of Sts. Sergius of Radonezh and Seraphim of Sarov in Sofrino, and the Trinity-St. Sergius Lavra, and much more.

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16 rescued from Rogue River Trail after calling for help due to inclement weather

Sixteen hikers, including 10 juveniles, were rescued from southern Oregon’s Rogue River Trail by boat last week after the group ran into inclement weather, according to the Curry County Sheriff’s Office .

The sheriff’s office received a call from Garmin International at 7:55 p.m. Thursday that a group including 10 youth, ranging in age from 13 to 18, were on the remote 40-mile trail and unable to continue.

“The group were all wet and cold due to the inclement weather and that some of the boys had blisters on their feet and not able to continue,” the news release said. “As it was dark, it was obvious that a rescue plan would have to wait until daylight.”

Curry County Sheriff John Ward said there were no medical issues but that the group wasn't prepared for the heavy rain and cold that arrived.

"Everything they had was soaking wet, including their sleeping bags, tents and everything," Ward said. "They were getting cold and didn't want to hike any more."

Search and rescue teams took a boat and hiked to the group at Rogue River Ranch, a historical site at about the midway point of the trail.

After checking medical status for sixteen individuals, the rescue team returned with two boats.

“Two boats then went back to the remaining subjects and transported them all … to Foster Bar where they were shuttled down river by vehicles,” the news release said.

Ward said people should check the weather be prepared before heading out. He said it was good that the group had a Garmin GPS device that allowed the group to communicate with rescue teams.

The Rogue River Trail is frequently backpacked in spring, summer and fall, and occasionally in winter as part of a three or four day trek.

Zach Urness has been an outdoors reporter in Oregon for 15 years and is host of the Explore Oregon Podcast . To support his work, subscribe to the Statesman Journal . Urness is the author of “ Best Hikes with Kids: Oregon ” and “ Hiking Southern Oregon .” He can be reached at [email protected] or (503) 399-6801. Find him on Twitter at @ZachsORoutdoors.

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Warrior-lite? 2024 Nissan X-Trail N-Trek added to medium SUV line-up as 'outdoors-inspired' variant to take on Toyota RAV4 and Mitsubishi Outlander

• Nissan X-TRAIL
• Nissan X-Trail 2024
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Nissan has added a new varianty to its range, with “adventure” focused additions and an upgraded set of multimedia displays.

Based on the ST-L grade, the 2024 Nissan X-Trail N-Trek revives the badge name previously used on an accessorised version of the Navara and is available in five- or seven-seat versions, starting from $47,290 and $50,390 before on-roads respectively.

Visually, the N-Trek is set apart from other variants by a dark finish front grille, the ‘V’ on which is chrome on other variants, while a set of unique 18-inch alloys and two-tone paint options with a black roof for some colours.

Read more about Nissan X-TRAIL

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Along with other darker trim and a set of LED fog lights, the N-Trek also gains new goodies inside, including a 12.3-inch multimedia touchscreen borrowed from higher-spec variants, a same-sized TFT driver display and a 10.8-inch head-up display.

For the seats and upholstery, a “new synthetic leather design with water resistant qualities” is used, Nissan says, which aims to protect the interior after all the outdoors-y activities it expects N-Trek buyers will be partaking in.

Region Vice President for Product Strategy and Pricing, Arnaud Charpentier put it quite simply when explaining the reason for the N-Trek being added to the X-Trail line-up.

“We started the development of the X-Trail N-Trek with the simple motto: Let’s Get Dirty.”

The five-seat version of the N-Trek is front-wheel drive, while the seven-seat version is 4WD, both using the brand’s 2.5-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine making 135kW and 245Nm.

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2024 Nissan X-Trail N-Trek revealed, Australian pricing confirmed

Nissan has unveiled a new n-trek edition of its popular x-trail mid-size suv to rival the off-road-focused toyota rav4 edge and subaru forester wilderness.

The 2024 Nissan X-Trail N-Trek mid-size SUV has been unveiled with an off-road focus.

Due in local showrooms later this month, the X-Trail N-Trek slots between the ST-L and Ti in the line-up, adding a darkened grille, a unique lower front bumper with different LED fog lamps, and black-painted side mirror caps, door handles and roof rails.

It is a rival for other off-road-styled mid-size SUVs including the Toyota RAV4 Edge and the Subaru Forester Wilderness , the latter of which currently isn’t offered in Australia.

There is also a different 18-inch alloy wheel design, while the N-Trek adds synthetic leather upholstery with water-resistant qualities.

Compared to the ST-L, the N-Trek also features the larger 12.3-inch infotainment system and 12.3-inch full-digital instrument cluster available in the Ti and Ti-L, along with a 10.8-inch colour head-up display.

All other features are shared with the X-Trail ST-L, including a 360-degree camera, dual-zone climate control, keyless entry and push-button start, heated front seats, and key active safety features.

It commands a $3600 premium over an equivalent ST-L variant. The N-Trek AWD also undercuts the Ti AWD – which has more equipment but fewer seats – by $100.

Available colours include ‘gun metallic’, 'diamond black' ‘champagne silver’, ‘ivory pearl’, and ‘ceramic grey’ in a single-tone finish. The last three colours are available with a two-tone black roof.

The X-Trail N-Trek is available in five-seat front-wheel-drive or seven-seat all-wheel-drive form with a 2.5-litre naturally-aspirated four-cylinder petrol. An E-Power version is not currently planned for Australia.

A Nissan Australia spokesperson told Wheels an E-Power petrol-electric hybrid version of the N-Trek is under consideration for our market.

“We are constantly reviewing our product line-up and ensuring we have the right product offering for the market. X-Trail N-Trek will commence with the ICE engine however, we will continue to evaluate the opportunity and suitability for X-Trail N-Trek e-Power for this market,” said the spokesperson.

The 2024 Nissan X-Trail N-Trek is due in Australia in late April.

2024 Nissan X-Trail pricing

Born and raised in rural Victoria, Jordan Hickey was surrounded by a car-loving family before he could even talk. His parents’ automotive workshop fuelled his strong passion for all things four wheels.

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