8 Of The Most Extreme Trails In North America

8 Of The Most Extreme Trails In North America

If you're like us, you're probably a huge trail buff. We can't keep most of our staff out of the forest... In fact, we had to enact a 'no hiking boots to work' rule! Now, even though we haven't had a chance to set foot on all 8 of these trails, they're definitely on our bucket list!

TRANS CANADA TRAIL

Canada – 14,900 Miles: The Trans Canada Trail is the worlds largest connected recreational network of trails. Although not quite complete, this extensive network of trails connects the Pacific, Atlantic, and Arctic ocean together into one maintained network. Construction started back in 1992, and since then has spanned across all 10 Provinces and 3 Territories. Currently you can walk/hike, cycle, paddle, horseback ride, cross-country ski and snowmobile on the TCT. Once complete, over 80% of the countries population will be living within 30 minutes of the trail.

CENTRAL PARK

New York City – 2.5 Miles: How many places can you go for a jog, and see Shakespeare, jugglers, buy a bagel, and end up at a Louis Vuitton store. With 8.6 Million people living by, and enjoying the park, make sure you bring patience – because the park is busy! However, there is something magical about being in nature while in the middle of a world class city.

MACKENZIE RIVER TRAIL

Eugene, Oregon – 25 Miles: Single-track hiking & biking trail stretching 26 miles past Douglas firs, waterfalls & river views? It doesn't get much better than the Mackenzie trail. The MRT was also just named "Top 5 Running Trails in the US" by theClymb.com so you KNOW it's good. Grab your bike, or your runners, and conquer the 26 miles of beautiful old growth forest today.

APPALACHIAN TRAIL

Eastern US – 2,185 Miles: Thinking about hiking the entire trail? Hope you have a great vacation package at your work, because it's going to take 5-7 months! Extending from Springer Mountain in Georgia and Mount Katahdin in Maine, only 12,000 people have ever completed the entire trail. See 21 of the most interesting stats about the trail here.

THE TAHOE RIM TRAIL, LAKE TAHOE

California/Nevada – 165 Miles: This 165 mile hiking trail forms a loop around the Lake Tahoe Basin in the Sierra Nevada and Carson ranges of California and Nevada. With over 4,000 foot elevation gain from the lowest to highest peaks, this trail is not for the faint of heart. Bring some water, your best boots, good friends, and set out to conquer the day!

KALALAU TRAIL

Kauai, Hawaii – 11 Miles: The trail leads from Ke'e Beach to Kalalau Beach along the Na Pali Coast on the island of Kauai in Hawaii. Bring a tent, and camp in designated camping grounds along the shaded terraces near streams. This 11 mile gem of a park is perfectly sandwiched between the Pacific Ocean and the towering cliffs of the coast. Lush greenery, roaring waterfalls, and heavy streams await!

RIM TO RIM, GRAND CANYON

Arizona – 41 Miles: Day hiking? You don't require a permit. However, we recommend starting VERY early, sitting out the hottest part of the day in the shade, and bringing plenty of water and snacks. Feeling really adventurous? Try Phantom Ranch – a 2 to 3 day high from North to South (or South to North) ridge. Or push yourself to the limit. Grab your backpack and permit, take a long weekend, and spend the next 4 days trekking through the valley. Don't forget to book your shuttle trip home.

WEST COAST TRAIL, BRITISH COLUMBIA

Port Renfrew, British Columbia – 46.5 Miles: From cable cars, to sea caves, to rickety ladders, to battling the Pacific Ocean... This 46.5 mile hike takes you around the cost of one of the most beautiful islands in North America. Can't commit to the entire trip? There is a half route. However, if you're planning on hiking along the beaches, make sure you checkout the tide table. Don't want to get stuck on the beach!

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