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

The Stevenson Trail (GR70)

france/Cévennes National Park (Haute-Loire, Lozère, Gard)
VS
Route B

Skyline Trail (Jasper)

canada/alberta

The Stevenson Trail (GR70) vs Skyline Trail (Jasper): Intensity Score Comparison

Both routes share a similar overall intensity (59 vs 58). Depending on personal strengths, the challenge relies more on Skyline Trail (Jasper)'s technicality versus the physical output of the other.

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

Intensity Difference
+1 The Stevenson Trail (GR70) is harder
Higher Physical Load
The Stevenson Trail (GR70)
Higher Technical Seriousness
Skyline Trail (Jasper)
Greater Commitment
Skyline Trail (Jasper)
Overall HikeMetrics Score
The Stevenson Trail (GR70)wins 5 of 8 metrics
5
Route A
3
Route B
france/Cévennes National Park (Haute-Loire, Lozère, Gard)

The Stevenson Trail (GR70)

MODERATE // CHLG
Full Route Report

The GR70, universally known as the Stevenson Trail, traces the historic 1878 journey of Scottish author Robert Louis Stevenson and his donkey, Modestine. This 270km linear hike begins in the volcanic hills of the Haute-Loire, crosses the granite plateau of Mont Lozère, and descends through the forested valleys of the Cévennes National Park to finish in the Gard. It is a premier literary trail passing through ancient chestnut forests and traditional stone villages of the Massif Central. Note: Compiled from public sources — not a field report.

canada/alberta

Skyline Trail (Jasper)

EXPERT // HAZARD
Full Route Report

True to its name, more than 25km of this 44km trail sits above the treeline, offering constant, scenic views of the Canadian Rockies. The Skyline Trail in Jasper National Park is one of the most famous alpine treks in North America. Crossing three mountain passes and reaching the legendary 'Notch' (2510m), the trail traverses ridgelines that make you feel like you are walking on the roof of the world.

Head-to-Head Metric Analysis

Intensity ScoreHigher Overall Demand
59 WINNER
58
Physical LoadMore Physically Taxing
72 WINNER
62
Technical SeriousnessMore Technically Demanding
27
WINNER40
DistanceLonger route
270 km WINNER
44.1 km
Elevation GainMore vertical
7,650 m WINNER
1,400 m
Highest PointHigher summit
1,699 m
WINNER2,510 m
DurationShorter commitment
12 days
WINNER3 days
Hazard LevelMore accessible
MODERATE // CHLG WINNER
EXPERT // HAZARD
Crowd Level
4 / 5
4 / 5
Remoteness
3 / 5
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
The Stevenson Trail (GR70)
MODERATE // CHLG
summer heat in the cevennes: As the trail moves south into the deeper valleys of the Cévennes (Lozère to Gard), the climate shifts from temperate to distinctly Mediterranean. The deep, rocky gorges trap intense, suffocating heat in July and August.
mont lozere exposure: The crossing of Mont Lozère (the highest point at 1,699m) is entirely exposed. Sudden, sustained storms or dense freezing fog can hit the barren granite summit plateau unexpectedly.
Route B // Hazard Verdict
Skyline Trail (Jasper)
EXPERT // HAZARD
weather: Being above the treeline for extended periods makes you highly vulnerable to sudden summer snowstorms and lightning.
wildlife: Jasper is prime Grizzly Bear territory.

Required Gear Comparison

The Stevenson Trail (GR70)
Comfortable, highly breathable trail running shoes or lightweight boots (the path offers many soft, leafy tracks alongside rocky descents)A copy of Stevenson's book (for evening reading)Topographical maps (IGN Top 100 156/163) or the official FFRandonnée TopoGuideWater filter (for the southern half where villages become sparse)
Skyline Trail (Jasper)
Bear Spray (fresh and accessible)Lightweight tent with high wind resistanceWarm layers (temperatures drop below freezing at night)Water filtration/tabletsGood quality topographical map

Compare with Other Routes

argentina
Cerro Tronador (Refugio Otto Meiling)
MODERATE // CHLG
argentina
Laguna Torre (Cerro Torre)
MODERATE // CHLG
argentina
Mount Fitz Roy (Cerro Fitz Roy)
EXPERT // HAZARD
argentina
Perito Moreno Glacier Trail
EXPERT // HAZARD
austria
Coburger Hütte — Seebensee & Drachensee
MODERATE // CHLG
austria
Graukogel — Pine Forests & strenuous Ridges
EXPERT // HAZARD