GR20 (Corsica) landscape

Photo: Photo by philippe patin on Unsplash

GR20 (Corsica)

14–16 days · 123 mi · strenuous · Point-to-point

Quick facts

Distance123 mi
Days out16
Elevation gain43,881 ft
Gain / mile357 ft
High point7,234 ft
Difficulty index88/100

What the GR20 (Corsica) is known for

The GR20 traverses the mountainous spine of Corsica and is widely described as one of Europe's most demanding waymarked long-distance trails, known for its rocky, exposed terrain and refuge-to-refuge structure.

Route map & campsites

Route map of the GR20 (Corsica) on OpenStreetMap terrain Open in Planner →

Route shape from OpenStreetMap geometry. Start · End · Camp

Elevation profile

Elevation ranges from 820 ft to 7,044 ft over 123 mi. Measured from OSM geometry (approximate).

  • Uphill 49.8 mi · 41%
  • Downhill 56.6 mi · 46%
  • Flat 16.4 mi · 13%

Ridgefold breaks every route into uphill, downhill, and flat — see the full per-day breakdown in the app.

How hard is the GR20 (Corsica)?

88 / 100

On the Ridgefold Difficulty Index, the GR20 (Corsica) scores 88/100, a relative rating across the 569 trails we've mapped, blending distance, elevation gain, and steepness. It is a comparison within our set, not an official rating.

Best season & permits

Season: June to September.

Permits: No permit; refuge stays must be booked through the park's system.

Official trail & permit info

Always confirm current conditions, closures, and permit rules with the managing authority before your trip.

Frequently asked questions

How many days does the GR20 (Corsica) take?

Most backpackers take 14–16 days to hike the GR20 (Corsica)'s 123 miles, though pace varies with fitness and conditions.

How much elevation gain is on the GR20 (Corsica)?

The GR20 (Corsica) climbs roughly 43,881 ft total — about 357 ft per mile, topping out near 7,234 ft.

When is the best time to hike the GR20 (Corsica)?

June to September.

Do you need a permit for the GR20 (Corsica)?

No permit; refuge stays must be booked through the park's system.

Related trails

Sources & attribution

Route geometry and stats derived from OpenStreetMap (© OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL) — source relation. Stats are approximate and may differ from official surveys; permit rules and conditions change — verify with the managing authority before your trip. Last reviewed July 2026.

Plan the GR20 Plan Free →