Continental Divide Trail
Trail Quick Facts
About the Continental Divide Trail
The Continental Divide Trail (CDT) stands as one of America’s most legendary long-distance trails, stretching approximately 3,100 miles from the Mexican border in New Mexico to the Canadian border in Montana. As the backbone of America, this trail follows the Continental Divide through some of the most remote and spectacular wilderness in the country, traversing five states: New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana.
Unlike its Triple Crown siblings—the Appalachian Trail and Pacific Crest Trail—the CDT remains gloriously wild and less developed, offering hikers an unparalleled adventure through high alpine terrain, vast desert landscapes, and pristine wilderness areas.
Difficulty Level
The Continental Divide Trail is widely considered the most challenging of the Triple Crown trails. Its difficulty stems from multiple factors: significant elevation changes, remote wilderness terrain, unpredictable weather, less-developed trail infrastructure, and route-finding challenges.
The trail is rated as extremely difficult for thru-hikers, with only about 150-200 hikers completing the entire trail each year compared to thousands on the AT and PCT. Even experienced backpackers find the CDT humbling due to its demanding physical requirements and mental fortitude needed to navigate long stretches of isolation.
Elevation Gain
The CDT features extraordinary elevation changes throughout its length. Hikers will experience cumulative elevation gain exceeding 460,000 feet over the entire trail—equivalent to climbing Mount Everest from sea level more than 15 times!
Trail elevations range from approximately 4,000 feet at some lower desert crossings to over 14,000 feet on certain high alpine routes in Colorado. The average elevation hovers around 11,000 feet in Colorado, making it the highest of the Triple Crown trails. Much of the trail remains above 10,000 feet for extended stretches, presenting altitude-related challenges even for conditioned athletes.
Weather Conditions
Weather on the CDT is notoriously unpredictable and can be extreme. Conditions vary dramatically by season, elevation, and location along the trail.
Spring (April-May): Northbound (NOBO) hikers starting in New Mexico encounter variable conditions. Desert sections can be hot during the day (70-90°F) and cold at night (below freezing). Snow remains at higher elevations through late May or even June. Water sources may be limited or dry.
Summer (June-August): This is prime hiking season, but challenges persist. Colorado’s high country typically becomes accessible by late June, though snow can linger on north-facing slopes. Afternoon thunderstorms occur almost daily above treeline, bringing lightning danger, heavy rain, hail, and even snow. Temperatures range from 40-75°F at altitude, though desert sections can exceed 90°F.
Fall (September-October): Early fall offers spectacular conditions with stable weather, fewer crowds, and stunning autumn colors. However, weather windows close quickly. Snow storms can occur any time after mid-September, and by October, winter conditions dominate higher elevations.
Winter: The trail is generally inaccessible due to deep snow, extreme cold, and avalanche danger. Only the most experienced winter mountaineers attempt CDT sections in winter months.
📸 Trail Photo Gallery
Experience the beauty and diversity of the Continental Divide Trail:
Triple Crown Trail Comparison
How does the CDT stack up against its Triple Crown siblings? Here’s a comprehensive comparison:
| Feature | CDT | PCT | AT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Length | ~3,100 miles | ~2,650 miles | ~2,190 miles |
| States | 5 (NM, CO, WY, ID, MT) | 3 (CA, OR, WA) | 14 states |
| Difficulty | Most Challenging | Moderate-Hard | Moderate |
| Annual Completions | 150-200 | ~1,000 | ~3,000 |
| Completion Time | 4-6 months | 4-5 months | 5-7 months |
| Trail Marking | Inconsistent | Well-marked | Very well-marked |
| Crowds | Very Low | Moderate | High |
| Resupply | 80-150 miles | 80-120 miles | 30-80 miles |
| Water | Challenging (esp. NM) | Moderate | Abundant |
| Elevation Range | 4,000-14,270 ft | 0-13,200 ft | 0-6,600 ft |
| Bears | Black & Grizzly | Black only | Black only |
| Navigation Skills | Advanced required | Intermediate | Basic |
| Motto | “Embrace the Brutality” | “Hike Your Own Hike” | “No Rain, No Pain, No Maine” |
State-by-State Breakdown
Est. Time: 30-40 days | Elevation: 4,000-13,000 ft
Highlights: Gila Wilderness, desert landscapes, Pie Town, volcanic formations
Challenges: Long water carries (30-40 miles), heat, sparse population
Key Towns: Lordsburg, Silver City, Grants, Cuba, Chama
Est. Time: 40-50 days | Elevation: 8,000-14,270 ft
Highlights: San Juan Mountains, 14ers, wildflower meadows, historic mining towns
Challenges: High altitude, afternoon thunderstorms, snow into July, steep terrain
Key Towns: Pagosa Springs, Creede, Lake City, Salida, Leadville, Breckenridge, Grand Lake, Steamboat Springs
Est. Time: 25-35 days | Elevation: 6,500-11,000 ft
Highlights: Wind River Range (spectacular!), Great Divide Basin, Yellowstone
Challenges: Great Divide Basin aridity, grizzly country, remote sections
Key Towns: Rawlins, South Pass City/Atlantic City, Pinedale, Dubois
Est. Time: 5-7 days | Elevation: 5,700-9,300 ft
Highlights: Idaho-Montana border region, Beaverhead-Deerlodge NF
Challenges: Brief section with limited resupply
Key Towns: Lima (Montana border)
Est. Time: 35-45 days | Elevation: 4,200-9,300 ft
Highlights: Bob Marshall Wilderness, Chinese Wall, Glacier National Park (epic finish!)
Challenges: 200+ miles in Bob Marshall, grizzly bears, remoteness
Key Towns: Lima, Butte, Lincoln, Augusta, East Glacier, Polebridge
💰 Budget Breakdown & Costs
Thru-hiking the CDT requires significant financial planning. Here’s what to expect:
Total Cost Estimates
Detailed Expense Categories
Pre-Trail Costs ($1,000-$2,500)
- Gear: $800-$2,000 (tent, pack, sleeping bag, clothing, etc.)
- Travel to Trailhead: $100-$500 (flights, shuttles)
- Permits: $0-$100 (most are free, CDTC registration $25)
On-Trail Costs Per Month ($500-$1,200)
- Food: $200-$400/month (resupply boxes and town purchases)
- Lodging: $200-$400/month (hostels/hotels, 8-12 nights)
- Restaurant Meals: $100-$200/month (town food)
- Laundry/Showers: $20-$40/month
- Gear Replacement: $50-$150/month (shoes, repairs)
- Transportation: $30-$60/month (shuttles, hitchhiking sometimes requires gas money)
Post-Trail Costs ($100-$500)
- Travel Home: $100-$400
- Celebration/Recovery: $50-$100
Sample Budget: 5-Month Average Thru-Hike
| Category | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Gear (Pre-trail) | $1,200 | Mix of new and used |
| Travel to Start | $300 | Flight + shuttle |
| Food (5 months) | $1,500 | $300/month average |
| Lodging (5 months) | $1,500 | ~40 nights @ $37.50/night |
| Town Food (5 months) | $750 | $150/month |
| Gear Replacement | $400 | 2-3 shoe pairs, misc repairs |
| Misc (laundry, shuttles) | $250 | Various expenses |
| Travel Home | $200 | Bus/flight |
| TOTAL | $6,100 | Average comfort level |
💡 Money-Saving Tips
- Buy used gear: Check REI Used Gear, Gear Trade, Facebook groups
- Mix resupply strategies: Mail drops for staples, buy fresh food in towns
- Share lodging: Split hostel/motel rooms with other hikers
- Cook in town: Buy groceries and cook instead of always eating out
- Stealth camp near towns: Instead of paying for camping/lodging every time
- Hitchhike: Free transportation (be safe and smart)
- Start with good gear: Spend more upfront to avoid replacement costs
- Zero days at free spots: Trail angels, free camping areas
- Discounts: Many outfitters offer thru-hiker discounts
Additional Financial Considerations
Lost Income: Don’t forget to factor in 5-7 months without a paycheck if leaving a job.
Health Insurance: Ensure you maintain coverage during your hike.
Emergency Fund: Bring credit card or emergency cash ($500-$1,000) for unexpected situations.
Planning Your CDT Adventure
Can You Hike It Alone?
Yes, many hikers successfully complete the CDT solo, but it requires additional preparation and caution. The CDT sees fewer hikers than the AT or PCT, meaning longer stretches without seeing other people. Solo hiking offers flexibility and personal challenge but demands self-reliance and strong decision-making skills.
Considerations for solo hikers include enhanced navigation skills, conservative risk management, reliable communication devices, sharing your itinerary with trusted contacts, and maintaining mental resilience during isolated stretches. Many solo hikers find companionship with other thru-hikers along the way, forming temporary “trail families” that provide social interaction and shared decision-making.
Crime Information
The CDT experiences minimal crime due to its remote nature. Violent crime along the trail is extremely rare. Most issues involve opportunistic theft at trailheads or near roads. To protect yourself and your belongings: don’t leave valuables in vehicles at trailheads, lock food and scented items in bear boxes where available, and be cautious when hitching into towns—use common sense and trust your instincts.
Permits and Fees
Important: There is NO single permit covering the entire CDT. You must research and obtain permits for specific sections.
Key Permit Areas:
- Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado) – Requires backcountry permit; advance reservations recommended
- Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming) – Backcountry permit required, available up to 48 hours in advance
- Glacier National Park (Montana) – Backcountry permit required; very competitive, advance reservations open in mid-March
- Various Wilderness Areas – Some require self-issue permits at trailheads
- Colorado 14ers – No special permits for most peaks, but be aware of private land restrictions
CDTC Thru-Hiker Registration: The Continental Divide Trail Coalition offers voluntary registration for thru-hikers ($25 fee), which provides updated trail information, community support, and helps with trail advocacy. While not legally required, it’s highly recommended and supports trail maintenance.
Most National Forest land requires no permit for general backcountry camping, but always verify current regulations for your specific route. Fire permits may be required in certain areas during fire season.
Directions to Trailhead
The CDT has two official termini, though actual starting points vary based on route choices and conditions.
Southern Terminus (Crazy Cook Monument, New Mexico): Located at the Mexican border in the Bootheel region. Access requires high-clearance 4WD vehicle via rough roads from Antelope Wells or Hachita. Many hikers arrange shuttle services from nearby towns. GPS coordinates: approximately 31.3321°N, 108.2083°W.
Northern Terminus (Waterton Lakes, Montana/Canada Border): The trail officially ends at the Canadian border in Glacier National Park. Access from Chief Mountain Highway or via shuttle from East Glacier. International border crossing requires proper documentation.
Common Alternative Starting Points: Many NOBO hikers begin at Columbus, New Mexico (road access near Mexican border), while some start further north to avoid early-season desert heat. SOBO (southbound) hikers often begin at Chief Mountain Customs or East Glacier.
Best Start Dates & Directions
Northbound (NOBO) – Most Popular
- Start Date: Late April to early May
- Finish Date: September to early October
- Pros: Build fitness gradually, better weather timing, finish in spectacular Glacier
- Cons: Desert heat early, Colorado snow possible
Southbound (SOBO) – Less Common
- Start Date: Late June to mid-July
- Finish Date: October to November
- Pros: Avoid Colorado snow, fewer hikers, Glacier accessible
- Cons: Harder start, weather windows close in fall, less trail magic
Conservation and Etiquette Guidelines
Leave No Trace principles are essential on the CDT to preserve its wild character for future generations.
The Seven Leave No Trace Principles:
- Plan Ahead and Prepare: Understand regulations, prepare for extreme weather, schedule trips to avoid high use
- Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces: Stay on trails, camp 200 feet from water, use existing campsites
- Dispose of Waste Properly: Pack out all trash. Catholes 6-8 inches deep, 200+ feet from water
- Leave What You Find: Don’t disturb artifacts or natural features
- Minimize Campfire Impacts: Use stoves. Where fires permitted, use established rings, keep small
- Respect Wildlife: Observe from distance, never feed, store food properly
- Be Considerate: Yield to uphill hikers, keep noise down, respect others’ solitude
Gear & Preparation
Essential Gear Packing List
The Big Three:
- Shelter: Freestanding tent or tarp/shelter with excellent weather protection. Consider durability over ultralight given rocky terrain and high winds. Some carry both lighter shelter for good weather and tent for storms.
- Sleep System: 15-20°F sleeping bag or quilt rated for three-season use. Consider down for weight savings but bring backup synthetic or vapor barrier liner for wet conditions. Insulated sleeping pad (R-value 4+) is essential.
- Backpack: 50-70 liter capacity depending on food carries and personal gear volume. Durable construction with good ventilation and load support for heavy water/food carries.
Clothing:
- Moisture-wicking base layers
- Insulating mid-layer (fleece or down jacket)
- Rain jacket (waterproof/breathable)
- Rain pants or wind pants
- Hiking pants/shorts (convertible popular)
- Extra socks and underwear (2-3 pair)
- Warm hat and sun hat
- Gloves (lightweight and warmer pair)
- Puffy jacket for cold mornings/evenings
Footwear:
- Sturdy trail runners (most popular) or hiking boots
- Multiple pairs throughout thru-hike (expect 600-800 miles per pair)
- Camp shoes (lightweight sandals or crocs)
- Gaiters (helpful for snow, scree, desert)
Navigation:
- Detailed maps (paper or waterproof prints)
- GPS device or smartphone with offline maps/GPS app
- Compass
- Battery bank/charging solution
- Headlamp with extra batteries
Safety/Emergency:
- First aid kit (comprehensive)
- Satellite communicator (inReach, SPOT, etc.)
- Bear spray (Montana/Wyoming)
- Emergency shelter/bivy
- Fire starting kit
- Knife/multi-tool
- Repair kit (duct tape, gear patches, etc.)
Food/Water:
- Water filter or purification system
- Water bottles/bladder (4-6 liter capacity total)
- Cook system (stove, fuel, pot)
- Utensil, cup
- Food bag and odor-proof storage
- Bear canister or approved hanging system (where required)
Miscellaneous:
- Trekking poles (highly recommended)
- Sunglasses and sunscreen (critical at altitude)
- Toiletries and hygiene items
- Toilet paper and trowel
- Bug protection (head net, repellent)
- Permit documentation
- Cash for towns
- Journal/camera (optional)
Weight Target: Experienced thru-hikers aim for base weight (pack weight without food/water) of 12-18 pounds, though beginners often start heavier.
Training Required
⚠️ The CDT is NOT recommended as a first long-distance hike!
Preparing for the CDT demands serious conditioning:
- Timeline: Begin at least 6 months before departure (ideally longer)
- Cardiovascular: Build to 2+ hour sessions with significant elevation gain
- Strength: Focus on legs, core, and upper body for pack carrying
- Pack Training: Gradually increase to 30+ pounds with your actual gear
- Altitude Prep: Spend time above 8,000 feet if possible (crucial!)
- Skills: Navigation with map & compass, wilderness first aid, gear repair, water filtration
- Test Trips: Complete several multi-day backpacking trips before committing
Safety & Trail Conditions
Current Year Trail Alerts
- Check CDTC Trail Conditions for current closures
- Monitor fire restrictions and active wildfires
- Check snow levels in Colorado high country (typically cleared by late June)
- Review water reports for New Mexico (critical for planning)
- Confirm National Park permit availability
- Join year-specific Facebook groups for real-time updates
Major Hazards
- Perhaps the most serious danger, especially in Colorado
- Afternoon thunderstorms occur almost daily above treeline in summer
- Plan to reach treeline or lower elevations by early afternoon
- If caught in storm: avoid ridgelines, isolated trees, and open areas. Crouch low on insulating material if lightning is imminent
- High elevations can cause acute mountain sickness (AMS), high altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE), or high altitude cerebral edema (HACE)
- Acclimatize gradually, stay hydrated
- Descend immediately if severe symptoms develop
- Headache, nausea, and fatigue are common at altitude
- Grizzly bears inhabit Montana and parts of Wyoming. Carry bear spray, make noise in bear country, practice proper food storage
- Black bears, mountain lions, and moose also present potential hazards
- Rattlesnakes are common in New Mexico and lower elevations
- Never approach or feed wildlife
- New Mexico sections feature long dry stretches, some exceeding 30-40 miles between reliable sources
- Carry adequate capacity (often 4-6 liters)
- Rely on updated trail resources like FarOut for current water information
- Plan carries carefully
- Wet, cold, and windy conditions can quickly lead to hypothermia, even in summer
- Carry adequate insulation and rain protection
- The CDT is less well-marked than other Triple Crown trails
- Numerous alternates, ambiguous sections, and route-finding challenges
- Carry detailed maps, GPS device or app, and navigation skills
- Download offline maps and waypoints before remote sections
- Some stretches are 100+ miles from roads or towns
- Self-sufficiency, wilderness medicine knowledge, and emergency communication devices are essential
Hiking the Trail
Section Hikes
Section hiking the CDT is an excellent way to experience this magnificent trail without committing to a thru-hike. Popular sections include:
- Colorado San Juan Mountains: Wolf Creek Pass to Silverton (~70 miles) offers stunning alpine terrain
- Wind River Range (Wyoming): 80-100 miles of dramatic granite peaks, pristine lakes, and challenging terrain – considered one of the trail’s highlights
- Bob Marshall Wilderness (Montana): 200+ miles of true wilderness immersion
- Glacier National Park (Montana): ~100 miles of spectacular alpine scenery
Scariest Part of the Trail
The “scariest” section varies by individual fears and conditions, but several commonly intimidate hikers:
Knife Edge (Montana): A narrow, exposed ridgeline traverse with significant drop-offs on both sides. This alternate route in Glacier isn’t technically difficult but is psychologically challenging for those with height anxiety.
Lightning Exposure (Colorado): Extended above-treeline sections during afternoon thunderstorm season create objectively dangerous situations. Being trapped on a ridge with lightning striking nearby is terrifying.
Grizzly Country (Montana/Wyoming): Hiking alone through known grizzly habitat, especially in thick vegetation with limited visibility, creates constant tension.
Hardest Part of the Trail
While difficulty is subjective, several sections consistently challenge hikers:
San Juan Mountains (Colorado): Continuous high-altitude terrain, significant elevation gain/loss, afternoon storms, and snow coverage into July create a perfect storm of challenges.
Bob Marshall Wilderness (Montana): The sheer remoteness and length (200+ miles between resupply) test mental fortitude.
Wind River High Route (Wyoming): This popular alternate provides spectacular scenery but requires advanced navigation skills, glacier travel experience, and class 3 scrambling.
Water Sources
Water availability is one of the CDT’s most significant challenges:
New Mexico: Numerous long dry stretches (20-40 miles) between reliable sources. Springs can be unreliable or dry by late season. Cattle tanks sometimes serve as only sources—filtration is critical.
Colorado: Generally better water availability, especially in alpine areas during snowmelt. However, some sections can be dry for 15-20 miles.
Wyoming: Variable; Wind River Range has abundant water, but basin crossing sections can be very dry with potential 30+ mile carries.
Montana: Generally the best water availability, with numerous streams, lakes, and springs.
Water Treatment: Always treat water. Filter, chemical treatment, or UV purification are essential given agricultural use, wildlife, and potential pathogens.
Resupply Points
Strategic resupply planning is critical:
New Mexico: Lordsburg, Silver City, Grants, Cuba, Chama (70-100 miles between)
Colorado: Pagosa Springs, Creede, Lake City, Salida, Leadville, Breckenridge, Grand Lake, Steamboat Springs (60-100 miles)
Wyoming: Rawlins, South Pass Area, Pinedale, Dubois (80-120 miles including Great Divide Basin)
Montana: Lima, Butte, Lincoln, Augusta, East Glacier (100-150 miles, Bob Marshall section particularly long)
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, absolutely. The CDT is not recommended for first-time thru-hikers. You should have significant backpacking experience, including multi-day trips, navigation skills, and wilderness camping. Many CDT hikers have already completed the AT or PCT. If the CDT is your dream, consider hiking sections first or completing an “easier” thru-hike like the AT to build skills.
Southern Terminus (Crazy Cook, NM): Fly into El Paso, TX or Tucson, AZ. Hire a shuttle service to take you to the border (several operate – book in advance). Some hikers start from Columbus, NM (easier road access).
Northern Terminus (Waterton, MT): Fly into Kalispell, MT or Calgary, AB. Take shuttle/bus to East Glacier or Waterton. Shuttles available through local services.
Most hikers use a combination. Mail drops work well for specific items (specialty foods, gear) and small towns with limited stores. Buying as you go offers flexibility for fresh food and changing needs. Many successful hikers do 50/50. Plan mail drops for: Pie Town, Doc Campbell’s, small Wyoming towns, and Bob Marshall section in Montana.
This is completely acceptable and common. About 50% or more of starters don’t finish. Valid reasons include: injury, weather, fires, personal emergencies, or simply deciding it’s not for you. You can exit at any trail town. Many hikers return to finish sections in future years. There’s no shame in listening to your body and mind.
Yes, but timing is crucial. Starting after late May means hitting Colorado snow. Starting before mid-April means New Mexico heat and potential water issues. Finishing after early October risks Montana snow. Many hikers do “flip-flops” – hike one direction, skip ahead, then hike the other direction to optimize weather windows.
Very limited. Expect no service for 100+ mile stretches. Occasionally you’ll catch signal on ridges or near towns. DO NOT rely on phone for emergency communication – carry a satellite device (inReach, SPOT, or satellite phone). Download offline maps before departing. Most hikers enjoy the digital detox.
Very challenging but possible. Dogs are NOT allowed in Glacier, Yellowstone, or Rocky Mountain National Parks – you’ll need to arrange boarding or road walks. Consider: your dog’s fitness for 15-20 miles/day, paw protection, bear country risks, and limited vet access. Very few hikers successfully complete the CDT with a dog.
“Choose Your Own Adventure.” The CDT has an official route, but numerous alternates exist. Some avoid bad trail conditions, some offer better scenery, some are easier. Popular alternates include: Wolf Creek Pass vs Cochetopa (CO), Wind River High Route (WY), and various Glacier routes. Use FarOut app and talk to other hikers for recommendations.
Very fit. You should be able to comfortably hike 15+ miles with a 30-pound pack before starting. Altitude makes everything harder. Many hikers struggle in the first few weeks but adapt. Regular cardiovascular exercise, strength training, and practice hikes with a loaded pack are essential. Don’t underestimate the physical demands.
The solitude and decision-making. Unlike the AT with its social trail, the CDT can be lonely. You’ll go days without seeing people. Constant navigation decisions and weather assessments create mental fatigue. The “halfway” point feels both exciting and daunting. Many hikers cite the psychological challenge as harder than the physical demands.
Community & Support
Online Communities
Facebook Groups
CDT Class of 2026 – Year-specific group for planning and real-time updates
Continental Divide Trail – General CDT discussion and advice
CDT Trail Angels & Magic – Connect with trail angels
Join on Facebook →Forums & Websites
Whiteblaze Forums – Long-distance hiking community with CDT section
Reddit r/CDT – Active community for questions and trip reports
Postholer – Trail data and snow reports
Visit Reddit →Trail Magic Culture
What is Trail Magic? Unexpected acts of kindness from “trail angels” – volunteers who support hikers.
Common Trail Magic on the CDT:
- Water Caches: Gallons left at dry road crossings (especially New Mexico)
- Food Coolers: Cold drinks, snacks, fresh fruit at accessible road crossings
- Rides: Shuttles to/from town from trailheads
- Home Stays: Some angels host hikers – showers, laundry, meals, beds
- Pie Town! Famous for welcoming and feeding hikers
Trail Magic Etiquette:
- Always thank angels profusely
- Never expect or demand trail magic
- Take only what you need; leave for other hikers
- Clean up after yourself at angel homes
- Pay it forward – consider providing trail magic for future hikers or contributing to trail organizations
- Respect property and rules
Essential Resources & Tools
Navigation & Planning Apps
FarOut (Formerly Guthook)
Essential navigation app with offline maps, waypoints, water sources, and hiker comments. Worth every penny!
Cost: ~$30 for full CDT
Get FarOut →CDTC Maps
Official Continental Divide Trail Coalition map set with detailed topography and trail info.
Cost: ~$130 for complete set
Order Maps →Halfway Anywhere Surveys
Annual CDT hiker surveys with statistics, gear lists, and insights from hundreds of hikers.
Read Surveys →Official Organizations
Continental Divide Trail Coalition
Primary advocacy organization. Membership supports trail maintenance and protection.
Join CDTC →US Forest Service – CDT
Official managing agency with regulations and current conditions.
USFS Info →American Long Distance Hiking Association
Recognizes Triple Crown hikers and provides community support.
Visit ALDHA →Ready to Embrace the Divide?
The Continental Divide Trail represents one of North America’s great wilderness adventures. Its remoteness, challenge, and spectacular beauty create an experience unlike any other long-distance trail.
- Thorough preparation and wilderness skills
- Excellent physical fitness and mental resilience
- Respect for the power of nature
- Humility to recognize when conditions exceed your abilities
- Patience with yourself and the journey
For those willing to embrace the challenge, the CDT provides unparalleled rewards: vast wilderness solitude, stunning mountain vistas, vibrant trail community, and the satisfaction of accomplishing something truly extraordinary.