11. Trails: Brief Overview of Hiking on PCT, JMT, AT, CDT and NCT

From desert passes to rugged mountain ridges and forested woodlands, America’s long-distance hiking trails offer some of the most rewarding outdoor experiences imaginable. In this episode, we take you on a guided tour through five iconic routes — the Pacific Crest Trail, John Muir Trail, Appalachian Trail, Continental Divide Trail, and North Country Trail — exploring what makes each unique and worth your hiking bucket list. What You’ll Discover: Pacific Crest Trail (PCT): Stretching about 2,650 miles from Mexico to Canada through deserts, alpine meadows, and forests, the PCT challenges hikers with varied terrain, water planning, iconic vistas, and a deep connection with wilderness. John Muir Trail (JMT): A 211-mile classic through the Sierra Nevada, this trail showcases some of California’s most breathtaking landscapes, including Yosemite, Kings Canyon, and Sequoia National Parks — often completed in about three weeks. Appalachian Trail (AT): Winding 2,198 miles along the Appalachian Mountains from Georgia to Maine, the AT is known for lush forest, dramatic elevation changes, and a supportive thru-hiking community. Continental Divide Trail (CDT): One of the longest and most rugged national scenic trails at roughly 3,028 miles, the CDT offers remote wilderness, big mountain views, and solitude through the Rocky Mountains from Mexico to Canada. North Country Trail (NCT): The longest trail in the National Trails System at over 4,800 miles, the NCT spans eight states across the northern U.S., weaving through forests, lakeshores, and glacial landscapes for a uniquely heartland hiking experience. Whether you’re dreaming of your first long trek or planning your next thru-hike, this episode gives you a snapshot of the epic trails that define long-distance hiking in the United States — with tips on terrain, length, scenery, and what makes each route special.