What are the best trekking poles for thru‑hiking the Gold Trail (São Paulo to Rio)?

For the historic Gold Trail (Caminho do Ouro) – an 80‑km route from São Paulo to Rio with steep climbs, rocky paths, and river crossings – choose durable aluminium poles with lever locks and cork grips.

The trail is demanding, with sections of loose stone, steep descents, and river crossings. The best value is the Decathlon Forclaz MT900 (~R$400), offering 7075 aluminium, lever locks, cork grips, and replaceable tips. For premium durability, the **Leki Makalu** (~R$700+) features a steel lower section for abrasion resistance. The Black Diamond Trail Back (~R$600+) is another solid option.

Key features for the Gold Trail include 7075 aluminium (carbon shatters on rocks), lever locks (reliable in mud and dust), cork grips (comfortable in heat), replaceable tips (abrasive rock wears them fast), and mud baskets for wet sections. Carry spare tips and a hex key. For most hikers, the Forclaz MT900 offers the best balance of cost and performance.

1. Why the Gold Trail demands specific poles

The Gold Trail (Caminho do Ouro) is a historic route that connects São Paulo to Rio de Janeiro. It is approximately 80 km long and can be done over 3–5 days. The trail is characterised by:

• Steep ascents and descents – The Serra do Mar and Serra da Mantiqueira have long, punishing climbs.
• Rocky terrain – The trail is often on stone, with loose sections and river crossings.
• Humidity and heat – The Atlantic Forest is hot and humid; comfortable grips are essential.
• River crossings – You will need to cross several rivers, often on slippery stones.
• Muddy sections – After rain, the trail becomes muddy and slippery.

2. Key features for the Gold Trail

a. 7075 aluminium – The best material for the Gold Trail. Aluminium bends under impact but rarely breaks. Carbon fibre is lighter but brittle—a side impact against a rock can cause it to splinter. For the rocky terrain of the Gold Trail, aluminium is the safer choice.

b. Lever locks – Essential for reliability in mud, dust, and water. Lever locks (cam locks) are mechanical and hold securely regardless of moisture or dirt. Twist locks rely on friction and slip when wet.

c. Cork grips – The best choice for hot, humid conditions. Cork becomes tacky when damp, providing a secure hold even with sweaty hands. It also molds to your hand shape over time.

d. Replaceable carbide tips – The abrasive rock on the trail will wear down tips quickly. Poles with replaceable tips are more economical—you can fit new tips rather than buying a new pole. Carry a spare pair for the multi‑day trek.

e. Mud baskets – Useful on the wet, boggy sections of the trail. They prevent the pole from sinking into soft ground.

3. Top picks

• Decathlon Forclaz MT900 – Best value. 7075 aluminium, lever locks, cork grips, replaceable tips. Widely available in Brazil (~R$400). Proven on Brazilian trails.
• Leki Makalu – Premium durability. Steel lower section resists abrasion; SpeedLock Plus lever locks; cork grips. Imported (~R$700+). The best choice for frequent walkers.
• Black Diamond Trail Back – Reliable FlickLock, 7075 aluminium, comfortable grip. Imported (~R$600+). A solid alternative to the Makalu.

4. Other considerations for the Gold Trail

• Weight – You will be carrying your poles for several days. The Forclaz MT900 (~500g/pair) is light enough for multi‑day treks.
• Spare parts – Carry spare tips and a hex key. The abrasive rock will wear down tips.
• River crossings – Lengthen your poles for river crossings to reach the streambed without leaning forward.

5. What to avoid

• Carbon fibre – Splinters on rocks.
• Twist locks – Slip in wet and muddy conditions.
• Non‑replaceable tips – Once worn, the pole is useless.
• Folding (Z‑pole) designs – The push‑button joints can jam with mud and grit.

6. Packing for the Gold Trail

• Spare tips – Essential. The trail's abrasive rock will wear them down.
• Hex key – For adjusting lever locks if they loosen under load.
• Mud baskets – Useful on wet sections.
• Rubber tips – For the road sections at the start and end of the trail.

7. Final verdict

For the Gold Trail (Caminho do Ouro), the Decathlon Forclaz MT900 is the best value choice for most hikers. It offers the durability, reliability, and comfort needed for the trail's rocky, humid, and steep conditions. For frequent hikers who want the best, the Leki Makalu is the premium choice. Both are available in Brazil, and both will serve you well on this historic route. Carry spare tips, a hex key, and use the correct technique to protect your knees on the descents. Happy hiking.