The longest North American trail is the Great Western Loop. It is a 6,875-mile route consisting of five existing trails: the Pacific Crest Trail, the Continental Divide Trail, the Arizona Trail, the Pacific Northwest Trail, and the Iditarod National Historic Trail. The Great Western Loop is considered to be one of the most challenging and rewarding long-distance trails in the world.
The route of the Great Western Loop traverses through 11 states, including California, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Wyoming, Montana, Utah, Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico, and Nevada. It crosses some of the continent’s most iconic landscapes, including the Grand Canyon, the Rockies, the Sierra Nevada, Yellowstone National Park, and the pioneer trails of the Oregon Trail and Lewis & Clark Expedition.
The Great Western Loop is a thru-hike, meaning it’s usually completed in one continuous journey, typically over a period of four to six months. It also presents the hiker with a wide range of terrain, from desert canyons and snow-capped mountains to lush forests and alpine meadows. The Great Western Loop is open to hikers of all levels, though experienced hikers may want to consider breaking up the journey into shorter sections.
Thru-hikers of the Great Western Loop will need to be prepared for a variety of conditions, including hot and cold temperatures, snow, and rain. Hikers will also need to be prepared to carry all their supplies with them, though there are some resupply points along the way. Additionally, the Great Western Loop is not a marked trail, so hikers will need a detailed map and compass, and some familiarity with the region.
The Great Western Loop is a one-of-a-kind journey and an incredible achievement for anyone who completes it. It is also a great way to experience the beauty and diversity of North America’s wild places.
Exploring the Longest North American Trail: Its Length and History
The longest North American trail is the Great Western Trail. It spans over 2,800 miles, running from Canada to Mexico through eight states and including areas of national parks, forests, and wilderness. It offers a unique experience for those seeking to explore the country from the comfort of their own home.
The Great Western Trail was originally built in the late 1800s as a way to transport goods and livestock from the East to the West, but it was also used by settlers to explore the new frontier. It has since become a popular destination for hikers, cyclists, and horseback riders who are looking for a different adventure.
The trail is divided into three sections: the Northern Great Western Trail, the Central Great Western Trail, and the Southern Great Western Trail. Each section has its own unique terrain, ranging from mountains to desert and everything in between.
The Northern Great Western Trail is the longest section, stretching from Canada to Montana. This section is known to have some of the most spectacular scenery in the country, including snow-capped mountains and lush forests. It is also home to some of the most remote and rugged terrain in the United States.
The Central Great Western Trail is the second-longest section, stretching from Montana to Texas. This section has a more varied terrain, with a mix of desert, mountains, and plains. It is home to some of the most iconic landmarks in the country, including the Grand Canyon and Monument Valley.
The Southern Great Western Trail is the shortest section, stretching from Texas to Mexico. It is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the United States, including sand dunes, cacti-filled deserts, and beaches. It is also home to some of the most unique wildlife in the country, including jaguars, iguanas, and scorpions.
The Great Western Trail is a great way to explore the vast and varied terrain of North America. Whether you’re looking for a rugged adventure or a scenic getaway, the trail has something to offer for everyone. So, if you’re looking for an unforgettable experience, be sure to check out the Great Western Trail.
Table of Contents
| Section | Length | Terrain |
|---|---|---|
| Northern Great Western Trail | ~2,000 miles | Mountains, forests |
| Central Great Western Trail | ~800 miles | Desert, mountains, plains |
| Southern Great Western Trail | ~1,000 miles | Desert, beaches, dunes |
Uncovering the Different Parts of the Longest North American Trail
If you’re looking for a unique way to explore North America, the longest North American trail could be the perfect option. This trail is called the Great Western Loop, and it spans over 8,000 miles, connecting many national parks, forests, and other landmarks throughout the continent. To undertake this journey, you’ll need to prepare for a variety of climates and terrain that can change quite drastically over the course of the trail. In this article, we’ll go over the different sections of the trail and some of the most notable sites you’ll come across.
The Great Western Loop is broken down into 8 distinct segments, with seven of them in the United States and one in Canada. Each segment has its own unique landscape and attractions that make it worth exploring. Some of the more popular sections include:
- Pacific Northwest Trail: This section of the trail takes you through some of the most breathtaking forests in the world, including the Olympic National Park and Crater Lake National Park.
- Continental Divide Trail: Here you’ll find some of the most remote parts of the United States, including Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park.
- Canadian Rockies Trail: This part of the loop takes you through the stunning Canadian Rockies and Banff National Park.
- Southwest Trail: Not only will you witness some of the most beautiful desert landscapes, you’ll also get to explore the Grand Canyon, Arches National Park, and Zion National Park.
- Southern Trail: This is the home of the Appalachian Mountains, with opportunities to explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Shenandoah National Park.
- Great Lakes Trail: You’ll witness the beauty of the Great Lakes and be able to explore Lake Superior Provincial Park.
- Mid-Atlantic Trail: This part of the loop takes you through New York, Pennsylvania, and Virginia, with opportunities to explore the Delaware Water Gap and George Washington National Forest.
- New England Trail: This final section takes you through some of the oldest and most historic parts of the United States, including Acadia National Park and White Mountains National Forest.
While the Great Western Loop offers an impressive 8,000 mile trek, there are some shorter alternatives for those who don’t have the time or energy for the full journey. For example, there is a 2,000 mile version of the trail that takes you through some of the most stunning areas of the United States. Additionally, there is a 4,000 mile version that takes you through the Great Lakes and Appalachian Mountains.
The Great Western Loop is a great way to explore the diversity of North America. Whether you take the full 8,000 mile trek, or just explore a few sections at a time, you’re sure to discover a wealth of beauty and cultural riches that are unique to each part of the trail.
The longest North American trail is the Great Western Loop, spanning over 9,000 miles.
The Great Western Loop begins in Seattle, Washington and ends in Key West, Florida.
The Great Western Loop provides outdoor adventurers with an opportunity to explore a variety of landscapes and ecosystems in North America.
Completing the Great Western Loop can take anywhere from 6-12 months depending on the hiker’s pace.
Yes, there is a variety of accommodation options available including camping sites, hostels, and hotels.
Yes, the Great Western Loop has several rest points along its route.
The Great Western Loop traverses through several different types of terrain, including mountains, deserts, canyons, and forests.
Yes, there are park, forest, and camping fees associated with completing the Great Western Loop.
The Great Western Loop goes through many different climates and weather conditions, ranging from hot and dry to cold and snowy.
Yes, the Great Western Loop requires hikers to have expert-level navigation and wilderness survival skills, as well as the necessary equipment for a long-distance hike.