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#7 on this list
Wonderland Trail
Washington, USA
150 km around Mount Rainier. Permit lottery, but a perfect week-plus trip.
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- Specification researched
#8 on this list
Long Range Traverse
Newfoundland, Canada
35 km unmarked route in Gros Morne. Real navigation on tundra plateaus above the fjords.
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Specs side by side
| Spec | Wonderland Trail | Long Range Traverse |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Mount Rainier National Park, Washington, USA | Gros Morne National Park, Newfoundland |
| Distance | 93 miles (150 km) | 35 km |
| Elevation Gain | 22,000+ ft (6,700+ m) | — |
| Typical Duration | 10-14 days | — |
| Permit | Required (Competitive Lottery) | — |
| Highest Point | Panhandle Gap (6,800 ft / 2,073 m) | — |
| Duration | — | 3-5 days |
| Navigation | — | Unmarked, requires advanced skills |
| Terrain | — | Tundra, bog, rocky plateaus |
| Permits | — | Mandatory backcountry permit |
| Access | — | Ferry drop-off via Western Brook Pond |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Wonderland Trail
- Unparalleled 360-degree views of Mount Rainier
- Diverse ecosystems and constantly changing scenery
- Well-maintained trail with good signage
- Sense of accomplishment from a challenging thru-hike
- Deep immersion in a spectacular wilderness area
- Extremely competitive permit lottery makes planning difficult
- Relentless elevation changes are physically demanding
- Crowds can be significant at popular camps/trailheads
- Limited resupply points require careful logistics
- Variable mountain weather demands preparedness for all conditions
Long Range Traverse
- Unparalleled wilderness solitude and isolation
- Stunning panoramic fjord and mountain views
- Exceptional navigation challenge for experienced backpackers
- Abundant wildlife viewing opportunities (moose, caribou)
- Profound sense of accomplishment upon completion
- No marked trail, demanding advanced navigation skills
- Highly exposed to unpredictable weather (fog, rain, wind)
- Significant sections of boggy, uneven terrain
- Mandatory boat tour and permit booking adds logistical complexity
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