If you’re considering whether to hike the Pacific Crest Trail or Appalachian Trail, you’ve come to the right place: We are happy to provide a tiebreaker in the form of a quiz for this important decision. Jokes aside: While we can’t tell you what trail is right for you (only you can decide that), we can help you gain a better perspective on which to weigh more heavily based on your preferences for weather, trail towns and planning. For additional details on how these two thru-hikes differ, check out this article: The Appalachian Trail vs. Pacific Crest Trail: Which Hike Is Right for You? How much do you like being around people? I love being around people! I prefer solitude. I can take them or leave them. None How do you define a "true" thru-hike? Hiking some portion of a long trail HYOH (Hiking Your Own Hike) Hiking every mile, continuously None Are you a backpacking expert? I hike hundreds of miles each year. I’ve gone a few times. Backpacking? Count me out. None How do you feel about wet weather? I’m OK with being wet, as long as I’m going home after. I like being pretty darn dry. I like when the trail is actually a river. None Where do you want to sleep? In my bed In my tent In a shelter None Do you like planning? I fly by the seat of my pants. I like to have a general idea of what I’m doing. Lists are my favorite. None What's your ideal trail town? One that has hostels, ice cream and pizza One that requires a long hitchhike and has a small motel A city center with four different sushi places on every block None Steep or flat? Steep Flat None Time’s up
