Mid State Trail landscape

Photo: Photo by Rosemary DeTrolio on Unsplash

Mid State Trail

~24 days · 308.5 mi · strenuous · Point-to-point

Quick facts

Distance308.5 mi
Days out24
Elevation gain45,469 ft
Gain / mile147 ft
High point2,720 ft

What the Mid State Trail is known for

Pennsylvania's Mid State Trail runs the length of the state's ridge-and-valley country between the Maryland line and the New York border, roughly 320 miles of remote, rocky ridge walking often called PA's wildest trail. A point-to-point thru-hike typically takes 3-4 weeks; the line here is simplified, so true mileage runs well above what the drawn segments measure.

Route map & campsites

Route map of the Mid State Trail on OpenStreetMap terrain Open in Planner →

Route shape from OpenStreetMap geometry. Start · End · Camp

Elevation profile

Elevation ranges from 1,775 ft to 7,900 ft over 308.5 mi. Measured from OSM geometry (approximate).

  • Uphill 109.3 mi · 36%
  • Downhill 98.3 mi · 32%
  • Flat 100.0 mi · 33%

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

Frequently asked questions

How many days does the Mid State Trail take?

Most backpackers hike the Mid State Trail in about 24 days (23 nights out) over its 308.5 miles, though pace varies with fitness and conditions.

How much elevation gain is on the Mid State Trail?

The Mid State Trail climbs roughly 45,469 ft total — about 147 ft per mile, topping out near 2,720 ft.

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 Mid State Trail Plan Free →