Top 6 Must See, Long Distance Hiking Trails on the East Coast

Explore where 6 of the most popular long-distance hiking trails are on the East Coast.

Hikers on a trail / Unsplash

When people think of long-distance hiking, the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) and the Appalachian Trail (AT) usually come to mind. However, throughout the United States, you can find a variety of long-distance trails that offer magnificent views and complex terrain, without the substantial time commitment.

Northville-Placid Trail

The NPT is a 135-mile trail located in the heart of the Adirondacks. Hikers often start their journey in Northville and complete the trail south-to-north, ending in Lake Placid. The trail is broken up into 10 sections with multiple trailheads, allowing individuals the option of section hiking rather than completing it in one push. Thru-hikers should expect to be on the trail for 10-14 days as they navigate some of the incredibly remote areas of the Adirondacks.

Cohos Trail

This 170-mile trail is located in New Hampshire and takes hikers through alpine environments and includes views of stunning waterfalls over the course of 12-14 days. It is common to start in southern Crawford Notch in the White Mountain National Forest and end your journey at the Canadian Border. This trail includes a wide range of difficulty, so some hikers may prefer to make it a section h.

New England Trail

The New England Trail is 235 mile long and takes the average thru-hiker 2-4 weeks to complete. This scenic trail travels through 41 communities in Connecticut and Massachusetts. Hikers must take note that water access can be slim along this trail, requiring additional planning. The northbound route begins in Guilford, Connecticut and ends in Royalston, Massachusetts.

The Long Trail

In order to earn the title of “End-to-Ender,” you must hike each mile of this 272-mile trail whether you’re thru-hiking or completing it in sections. Thru-hikers can expect to complete this adventure in 3-4 weeks. With this trail entering the pristine wilderness of Vermont, hikers are able to experience alpine sedge and hardwood forests, but not without a challenge. While some sections of the trail are rated as easy to moderate, there are plenty of sections with notably steep inclines. According to the Green Mountain Club, this trail is the oldest continuous footpath in the United States.

Batona Trail

This New Jersey trail is approximately 53.5 miles long and takes most hikers 2-5 days to complete, making it a good fit for individuals who have a tight schedule. As the trail goes through New Jersey’s Pine Barrens, hikers are able to experience the state’s secluded and interesting ecosystem. The most common starting point for this trail is in Brendan T. Byrne State Forest in Ong’s Hat and ends at Dan Bridge Road in Bass River State Forest.

Cranberry Lake 50

This hike circumnavigates Cranberry Lake, located in New York’s Adirondacks. As the name suggests, it is approximately 50 miles long. Completing this trail takes the average hiker 2-4 days. There are 7 trailheads available to individuals who are up for the challenge, allowing for a wide variety of starting points. The preferred direction among most hikers is to go clockwise around the lake. Once completed, you can submit your name to receive a completion patch.