NCT Thru-Hike Permit: Route
NCT Thru-Hike is in North Country National Scenic Trail, and the agency does not require a permit for it. The route covers 4800 miles.
This guide covers the North Country National Scenic Trail Thru-Hike permit.
Free to hike. Some segments, such as the BWCAW and some state parks, charge their own fees.
Permit Cost
8-12 months for a continuous thru-hike (multi-year for most completers, per NCTA)
Duration
4800 miles
Distance
strenuous
Difficulty
About NCT Thru-Hike
The longest trail in the National Trails System: about 4,800 miles from Lake Sakakawea State Park, North Dakota to Crown Point, New York, across eight states. Almost the whole route needs no permit at all.
The NCT Thru-Hike route
- Distance
- 4800 miles
- Route type
- point-to-point
- Trip length
- 8-12 months for a continuous thru-hike (multi-year for most completers, per NCTA)
- Difficulty
- strenuous
Entry points: Lake Sakakawea State Park (Western Terminus), Crown Point vicinity (Eastern Terminus)
Eight states: North Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont
Points along the route
- Lake Sakakawea State Park (Western Terminus)Mile 0, 1,917 ft
- Border Route / Kekekabic Trail junction (BWCAW)
- New RockfordMile 183, 1,535 ft
- Valley CityMile 304.8, 1,221 ft
- KentMile 451.7, 942 ft
- Beiningen LakeMile 524.4, 1,430 ft
- Kirk LakeMile 611.6, 1,611 ft
- Buckeye LakeMile 752.4, 1,305 ft
- Pea Soup LakeMile 891.6, 1,446 ft
- Cook County Road 70 TrailheadMile 1028.1, 1,358 ft
- Beaver River FallsMile 1168.7, 770 ft
- Big Manitou FallsMile 1324.9, 961 ft
- Copper FallsMile 1477.1, 1,007 ft
- Rainbow FallsMile 1550, 638 ft
- Gleason Creek FallsMile 1622.6, 1,418 ft
- Canyon FallsMile 1697, 1,362 ft
And 24 more named points along the route.
NCT Thru-Hike permit detailsandAll North Country National Scenic Trail permits
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This guide is based on personal experience obtaining wilderness permits and is regularly updated to reflect current policies and strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for NCT Thru-Hike?
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Yes, a permit is required. Walk-up permits are available at the trailhead or visitor center, but arrive early as they may be limited.
How long is the NCT Thru-Hike route?
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The route is 4800 miles, as a point-to-point.
How difficult is the NCT Thru-Hike route?
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This is a strenuous route, demanding and requires excellent fitness.
Where does the NCT Thru-Hike route start?
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The permit covers 2 entry points: Lake Sakakawea State Park (Western Terminus), Crown Point vicinity (Eastern Terminus).
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