HikeMetrics
Global Hiking Index
HikeMetrics
Global Hiking Index
HikeMetrics // Comparison Engine
Route A

Dana to Petra (Jordan Trail)

jordan/dana-biosphere-petra
VS
Route B

Sunshine Coast Trail

canada/british-columbia

Dana to Petra (Jordan Trail) vs Sunshine Coast Trail: Intensity Score Comparison

Both routes share a similar overall intensity (61 vs 61). Depending on personal strengths, the challenge relies more on Sunshine Coast Trail's technicality versus the physical output of the other.

Model-based (not a field report) · Evaluates overall route demand, not danger.

Intensity Difference
+0 Equivalent
Higher Physical Load
Sunshine Coast Trail
Higher Technical Seriousness
Sunshine Coast Trail
Greater Commitment
Dana to Petra (Jordan Trail)
Overall HikeMetrics Score
Sunshine Coast Trailwins 5 of 7 metrics
2
Route A
5
Route B
jordan/dana-biosphere-petra

Dana to Petra (Jordan Trail)

EXPERT // HAZARD
Full Route Report

The Dana to Petra section of the Jordan Trail is a multi-day desert traverse connecting the Dana Biosphere Reserve to the archaeological site of Petra. The route transits through the Great Rift Valley, descending from the Dana ridge at 1,200 meters through the Wadi Dana gorge into the arid plains of Wadi Araba. The trek culminates in the 'Back Door' entry to Petra, a high-altitude Nabataean mountain path that provides immediate access to the Monastery (Ad Deir). The route is defined by its geological transition from limestone escarpments to sandstone canyons and the presence of Bronze Age copper mines in the Feynan region.

canada/british-columbia

Sunshine Coast Trail

EXPERT // HAZARD
Full Route Report

Canada's longest hut-to-hut hiking trail and a hidden gem of the West Coast. Stretching 180km from Sarah Point to Saltery Bay, the Sunshine Coast Trail (SCT) winds through ancient rainforests, along coastal ridges, and past crystal-clear lakes. Unlike many others, the SCT is developed and maintained by a non-profit (PAWS) and features 14 beautiful, free-to-use huts. It is a spectacular wilderness marathon for the community-minded hiker.

Head-to-Head Metric Analysis

Intensity Score
61
61
Physical LoadMore Physically Taxing
70
WINNER73
Technical SeriousnessMore Technically Demanding
32
WINNER36
DistanceLonger route
76 km
WINNER180 km
Elevation GainMore vertical
2,679 m
WINNER6,000 m
Highest PointHigher summit
1,200 m
WINNER1,300 m
DurationShorter commitment
5 days WINNER
10 days
Hazard Level
EXPERT // HAZARD
EXPERT // HAZARD
Crowd Level
2 / 5
2 / 5
RemotenessMore remote
5 / 5 WINNER
3 / 5

HikeMetrics Hazard Scale — Explanation

1
LOW // ACCESS
2
STANDARD // RT
3
MODERATE // CHLG
4
EXPERT // HAZARD
5
EXTREME // LETHAL

The HikeMetrics Hazard Scale is a proprietary 5-point classification system that evaluates hiking routes across five dimensions: physical demand, technical complexity, altitude exposure, weather risk, and rescue accessibility.

Unlike generic star ratings, the Hazard Scale is calibrated against altitude profiles, elevation gain per day, and logistical isolation factors — making it the most precise route classification system available.

Full Scale Documentation
Route A // Hazard Verdict
Dana to Petra (Jordan Trail)
EXPERT // HAZARD
heat and sun exposure: The transit across the Wadi Araba floor involves sustained exposure to temperatures exceeding 40°C in unshaded desert conditions.
flash flood risk: Narrow canyon systems (Wadis) in the Rift Valley are subject to rapid flash flooding from localized rainfall in the eastern highlands.
Route B // Hazard Verdict
Sunshine Coast Trail
EXPERT // HAZARD
wildlife: Black bears and cougars are common throughout the Sunshine Coast.
navigation: The trail has many intersections with logging roads.

Required Gear Comparison

Dana to Petra (Jordan Trail)
High-performance desert-specific breathable shellTechnical trekking boots with aggressive rock-clamping solesDesert-specific headwear (Shemagh) for moisture retention and UV protectionUV-rated eye protection (Category 3 or 4 recommended)Minimum 20,000mAh power capacity for 5-day offline GPS tracking
Sunshine Coast Trail
Lightweight sleeping pad and bag for hut bunksReliable water filterBear SpraySCT GuidebookComfortable distance boots

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