CDT Section 21: Mt Taylor Trailhead to Forest Road 239

The starting point for this section is the Mt. Taylor Trailhead. While specific parking details aren't provided, trailheads on the Continental Divide Trail typically offer designated parking areas. It's always a good idea to check local forest service information for the most current parking regulations and availability.

This section of the CDT traverses the Cibola National Forest. Generally, day hiking on national forest lands does not require a permit or entrance fee. However, specific activities like overnight camping in certain areas or commercial use might require permits. It's advisable to check the Cibola National Forest website for any current regulations or alerts before your trip.

While specific regulations for dogs on this exact section aren't detailed, the Continental Divide Trail generally allows dogs. However, given that it passes through a National Forest, dogs are typically required to be on a leash. Always practice Leave No Trace principles, including packing out pet waste. Be mindful of the desert environment, which can be harsh on paws, and ensure your dog has plenty of water.

Given that this is a desert section of the CDT in New Mexico, spring and fall are generally the best times to hike to avoid extreme heat. Summer can be very hot and barren, making water availability a significant concern. Winter can bring cold temperatures and snow, especially at higher elevations.

This section of the CDT is characteristic of New Mexico's desert environment. You can expect to encounter red rocks and colorful sand, offering beautiful scenery, especially during twilight. While some parts of the New Mexico CDT are relatively flat, other areas, particularly around Mount Taylor, are more rugged. It's often described as a "geologist's dream" due to its unique geology.

The overall difficulty of this section is rated as difficult. While some stretches are easier, the desert environment presents challenges like limited and sporadic water sources, and potentially hot and barren conditions. If you opt for the Mount Taylor Alternate route, it involves a significant 2,000-foot elevation gain over 6.2 miles, making it a moderate to difficult climb.

Water sources are limited and sporadic throughout this section of the New Mexico CDT. Due to the desert environment, careful advance planning for water is essential. Hikers should carry sufficient water for their journey and be aware of potential caching opportunities or reliable natural sources if known.

A prominent feature of this section is Mount Taylor (Tsoodził), a dormant stratovolcano and a sacred mountain for several Native American peoples. The official CDT route wraps around Mount Taylor at a lower elevation. For those seeking panoramic views, the Mount Taylor Alternate route ascends the mountain, offering superb vistas. You can also find the Bell on Continental Divide Trail along the way.

Yes, there are two main options for traversing the Mount Taylor area. The Official CDT Route offers a gentler hiking experience by wrapping around Mount Taylor at a lower elevation. For a more challenging climb and superb vistas, the Mount Taylor Alternate ascends the mountain from the Gooseberry Springs Trailhead, involving a significant 2,000-foot elevation gain over 6.2 miles.

Yes, this route primarily follows the CDT - New Mexico Section for its entire length. It also briefly intersects with sections of the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route and other segments labeled as Continental Divide Trail.

Given its classification as difficult and the challenges posed by limited water sources and potentially rugged terrain, this section of the CDT might not be ideal for beginner hikers or young families. The Mount Taylor Alternate route, in particular, involves significant elevation gain. Hikers should have prior experience with multi-day hikes in challenging environments and be prepared for desert conditions.