PUDs (Pointless Ups and Downs)
Overview
PUDs, or Pointless Ups and Downs, refer to trail segments with frequent small ascents and descents that add cumulative elevation change without providing scenic or functional benefits.
Key points
- Common on older trail alignments following natural terrain contours.
- Increase physical exertion and reduce perceived progress.
- Often a source of frustration among long-distance hikers.
- Can influence pace, morale, and energy expenditure.
Details
PUDs are characterized by unavoidable terrain fluctuations caused by topography or traditional trail construction philosophies. While they may feel inefficient, they result from environmental constraints, land boundaries, or erosion-avoidance strategies. Modern trail reroutes sometimes reduce PUD-heavy segments, but many long-distance trails retain them as part of the landscape experience.
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Illustrative hiking footage
The following external videos offer general visual context for typical hiking environments. They are not official route recommendations, safety instructions, or planning tools.