Continental Divide Trail

The Continental Divide Trail (CDT) is widely considered America's most challenging long-distance trail. It is far more remote and rugged than other major trails and requires extensive wilderness skills and navigation. It is generally not recommended as a first thru-hike unless you have considerable backpacking experience.

The CDT offers incredibly diverse and breathtaking scenery, following the Continental Divide of the Americas along the Rocky Mountains. You'll experience everything from the dry, sandy deserts of New Mexico to high-altitude alpine tundra, pine forests, glacial lakes, and snow-capped summits in Colorado. Wyoming features vast, desert-like plains and rugged mountain ranges, while Idaho and Montana offer open prairies, forested valleys, and majestic mountains. Elevations range from approximately 4,000 feet (1,219 m) to over 14,000 feet (4,267 m).

The season for hiking the CDT is relatively short due to the high altitudes and extreme weather conditions. Thru-hikers typically start in late April or early May in New Mexico to avoid the desert heat and finish in Montana by late September or early October before heavy snows begin. Section hikers should research specific regions, as conditions vary greatly by state and elevation.

While there isn't a single permit for the entire CDT, you will need permits for specific sections, especially when passing through National Parks, Wilderness Areas, or tribal lands. For example, permits are required for overnight stays in Yellowstone National Park and Glacier National Park. It's crucial to research the specific permit requirements for each section you plan to hike well in advance, as regulations can vary by state and land management agency.

Dogs are generally allowed on many sections of the CDT, but regulations vary significantly by state and specific land management areas. For instance, dogs are often prohibited or have strict leash rules in National Parks and some Wilderness Areas. Always check the specific rules for each section you plan to hike to ensure compliance and protect wildlife.

The trail is rich with landmarks. Highlights include Grays Peak in Colorado, the highest point on any National Scenic Trail, the stunning San Juan Mountains, the rugged Wind River Range in Wyoming, and the unique Chinese Wall in Montana's Bob Marshall Wilderness. You might also pass by specific points of interest like the Bell on Continental Divide Trail.

The CDT traverses diverse ecosystems, offering opportunities to see a wide range of wildlife. In New Mexico, you might spot bears and elk. As you move north, particularly near Yellowstone National Park and in northern Montana, encounters with grizzly bears, moose, and mountain goats are possible. Always practice Leave No Trace principles and be bear aware.

Yes, the route coincides with several other trails. For about 200 miles in Colorado, it shares its path with the Colorado Trail. Other official trails along this route include the CDT - New Mexico Section, the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route, and sections known as 02031 and 02030.

The Continental Divide Trail passes through sections of the Cibola National Forest. When hiking here, be aware of forest regulations regarding campfires, food storage (to protect against wildlife), and Leave No Trace principles. While specific permits for hiking may not be required for day use, always check the official USDA Forest Service website for the latest information on any fire restrictions, closures, or specific permits needed for overnight camping or certain activities within the forest boundaries.

Navigation on the CDT can be very challenging. Unlike other major trails, the CDT is still largely incomplete, with many stretches lacking a marked trail. This means hikers must rely heavily on maps, a compass, and GPS devices. Frequent route changes and alternative routes also mean the actual hiking distance can vary, requiring careful planning and strong wilderness navigation skills.

Due to its remote nature, amenities along the CDT are sparse compared to more developed trails. Hikers typically resupply in small trail towns located off the main route, which may offer basic services like post offices, general stores, and sometimes lodging or restaurants. Planning your resupply points and water sources is a critical part of a successful CDT hike.