The trail is quite steep and rugged in many areas. Three days to backpack the 27 miles allows you time to watch wildlife, enjoy the many wild flowers, do some birdwatching and enjoy the midnight sun.
Some hardy souls enjoy hiking the trail in one day.
Day hikes can be enjoyed from either trailhead. A water cachement system is available at the cabins, but all water needs to be purified before drinking or cooking. Elevations along the trail range from a low of 3156 feet at Twelvemile Summit and a high of 4872 feet at Pinnell Mountain. On clear days you will spectacular views of the White Mountains, Crazy Mountains and the Yukon River drainage. The average width of the trail is between 12 and 24 inches, but some areas are less than 6 inches wide.