Opinion: Blaze the Continental Divide Trail
Some hikers grouse that blazing the CDT and other wild western trails will ruin them—but that’s exactly the problem with doing nothing.
Continental Divide Trail
The most rugged of America’s triple crown of long trails (the others are the Pacific Crest Trail and Appalachian Trail), the Continental Divide Trail runs 3,100 miles from Canada to Mexico, passing through five states: Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, Colorado, and New Mexico.
The Continental Divide Trail Coalition (CDTC) estimates that as of December 2015, 85 percent of the trail is completed. Elevation along the Continental Divide Trail ranges from around 4,000 to 14,000 feet.
Many thru-hikers attempt to hike the Continental Divide Trail in a single season. A number books, memoirs, web sites and fan organizations are dedicated to this pursuit.
The Continental Divide Trail, Appalachian Trail, and the Pacific Crest Trail form the Triple Crown of long distance hiking in the United States.
Everything I Wish I Knew Before Hiking the Continental Divide Trail
In pursuit of the Triple Crown, many hikers save this high route through the Rocky Mountains and New Mexico desert for last. It’s not so scary—as long as you’re prepared.
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