I'm talking for atmosphere, vibe, views, sense of adventure.
I've done the Great Range Traverse (ADK) been all over the greens and most of the Whites (Presidental Range, Mt. Washington). You get the idea. Long rugged days with steep trails.
I've never done real hiking other than touristy 5 mile loops out west. Anyone with extensive time in both settings who can compare?
My expectation / assumption - East = "The green tunnel" very rugged/slow pace trails, steep, no switchbacks, humid. West = altitude can get to you, sun exposure, equivalent or better views, slightly more prominence offered if you want it, more switchbacks and less beat up (rock garden) trails, but more true mountaineering available at highest elevations.