About the Trail
The Continental Divide Trail (CDT) is one of America's most challenging long-distance hiking trails and completes the "Triple Crown" of long-distance hiking along with the Appalachian Trail and Pacific Crest Trail. Stretching approximately 3,100 miles from the Mexican border to the Canadian border, the CDT follows the Continental Divide through New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana.
The CDT traverses some of the most remote and rugged terrain in the United States, including five distinct ecosystems ranging from desert to alpine tundra. It passes through 25 national forests, 21 wilderness areas, 3 national parks, and 1 national monument.
Unlike the more established Appalachian Trail and Pacific Crest Trail, the CDT is still considered a work in progress, with approximately 95% of the trail complete. Some sections remain unmarked or follow roads, requiring advanced navigation skills. The CDT is known for its challenging terrain, extreme weather conditions, and remote nature.
Trail Information
Trail Highlights
- 1The Bootheel of New Mexico and Chihuahuan Desert
- 2San Juan Mountains in Colorado
Planning Your Hike
Permits
No single permit is required to hike the entire CDT, but permits are needed for specific areas, including Glacier National Park, Yellowstone National Park, and Rocky Mountain National Park.
Navigation
The CDT is less developed and marked than other long trails, making navigation skills essential. Most hikers use a combination of maps, compass, GPS, and smartphone apps like Guthook Guides (now FarOut).
Trail Stats
Planning Resources
Share Your Journey
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