# Continental Divide Trail

The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail (in short Continental Divide Trail) is a United States National Scenic Trail running 3,100 miles between Mexico and Canada. It follows the Continental Divide of the Americas along the Rocky Mountains and traverses five U.S. states; Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, Colorado, and New Mexico. In Montana it crosses Triple Divide Peak which separates the Hudson Bay, Atlantic Ocean and Pacific Ocean drainages. It crosses 25 National Forests, 21 Wilderness Areas, 3 National Parks, 1 National Monument, 8 BLM Resource Areas and is considered one of the most significant Trail Systems in the world.

## Understand

The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail provides for high quality, scenic, primitive hiking and horseback-riding recreational experiences, while conserving natural, historic, and cultural resources along the Continental Divide. Extending 3100 miles between Mexico and Canada, the trail traverses landscapes primarily on public lands within 50 miles of the geographic feature. This National Scenic Trail was established in 1978 through the authority of the National Trails System Act (P.L. 90-543) and is one of the outstanding resources of the National Landscape Conservation System. The trail is a combination of dedicated trails and small roads and considered 70% complete. Portions designated as uncompleted must be traveled roadwalking on dirt or paved roads.

### Thru hiking

Thru hiking is a term used in referring to hikers who complete long distance trails from end-to-end in a single trip. The Pacific Crest Trail, Appalachian Trail, and Continental Divide Trail were the first three long-distance trails in the U.S. Successfully thru-hiking all of these three trails is known as the Triple Crown of Hiking. Thru-hiking is a long commitment, usually taking between four and six months, that requires thorough preparation and dedication. Only about two dozen people a year attempt to hike the entire trail, taking about six months to complete it. As of 2008, no equestrians have managed to ride the entire trail in a single year, although several "long riders" have tried. German long distance rider Günter Wamser (on his way from Tierra del Fuego to Alaska), and Austrian Sonja Endlweber (who joined him for the rest of the journey from Mexico) managed to complete the tour with four Bureau of Land Management mustangs in three summers 2007–2009.
* The Continental Divide Trail Coalition, P.O. Box 552 Pine, CO 80470, ☏ +1 720 340-CDTC (2382), info@continentaldividetrail.org. a 501 (c) (3) national non-profit organization that seeks to create a community committed to construct, promote, and protect in perpetuity the CDNST. They have a variety of newsletters, forums, events and updates on recent trail conditions.

## Prepare

The most common cause of failure to complete the CDT is lack of preparedness. It is important to begin regular walks in the months and weeks leading up to the thru-hike, beginning with low-impact day-hikes in easy terrain while carrying a minimum of weight. When these day-hikes become nearly effortless, increase the distance and include several multi-day hikes that require a full backpack with food, water and gear. In addition, hilly terrain should be incorporated as soon as possible in order to build up strength in the muscles required for climbs and descents. Performing regular hikes that continually push the body's current limits will not only toughen the body but will also go a long way toward mentally preparing oneself for the constant strain on body and mind.
Much of this info is available in the Wilderness backpacking travel section, but generally equipment should be purchased well in advance of the CDT start date and should be used as many times as possible to both allow the hiker to become familiar with the gear (backpacks adjusted properly, boots broken in, etc.) and to identify any broken, impractical or unsatisfactory items. Prospective thru-hikers should get in contact with local hiking clubs and solicit advice on what pieces of equipment are completely unnecessary, which are luxury items and which are essential. Different hikers have different philosophies on how much gear should be taken, from those in the "lean and fast" school of thought which advocates a minimum of everything - no stove, no tent, hiking sandals instead of boots and little else - to the "slow and comfortable" school which sacrifices speed and low weight for comfort. One should get as many opinions as possible and attempt hikes with various levels of gear until an acceptable amount of weight and speed has been achieved.
Fire permits are needed in many areas, and fire closures may exist during extremely dry times of year. Above certain elevations or in some areas fires are not permitted. Please check ahead of your trip to determine if a fire permit is needed and where it can be obtained.
Many of the wilderness areas, National Parks and other special management areas require an overnight use permit. Please check with the local area to determine if a permit is needed and where it can be obtained.

### Resupply

Preparing financially and logistically are also essential to a successful thru-hike. The cost of a hike will range from several hundred dollars a month on the low end to upwards of a thousand dollars a month for the high end. Each person has a different minimum level of comfort and nourishment; it is vital to discover what one's own level is as early as possible and to make supply arrangements accordingly. Study the route and identify towns that will serve as likely resupply centers and map out distances between post offices. An experienced thru-hiker resupplies his or her dry goods every 10-14 days, either through the post offices' general delivery drop-box system or through local purchases. The average thru-hiker plans for six to eight months before the actual hike. In a few cases, the CDT passes through or near towns and resorts where supplies can be purchased. In other cases the trail users may need to get off the trail and travel to a town.
* The Continental Divide Trail Society, 3704 N. Charles St. (#601), Baltimore MD 21218. offers a wide variety of travel guides, DVD's, maps and even patches pertaining to the trail and can be either ordered online or through the mail.
Resupply :
| Location | State | Address | Distance |
| Lordsburg | New Mexico | 400 W Wabash St, Lordsburg, NM 88045 | 84 mi (135 km) |
| Silver City | New Mexico | 500 N Hudson St, Silver City, NM 88061 | 158 mi (254 km) |
| Pie Town | New Mexico | 14 Beanery Rd, Pie Town, NM 87827 | 415 mi (668 km) |
| Grants | New Mexico | 515 W High St, Grants, NM 87020 | 525 mi (845 km) |
| Cuba | New Mexico | 6342 US-550, Cuba, NM 87013 | 629 mi (1,012 km) |
| Chama | New Mexico | 531 Terrace Ave, Chama, NM 87520 | 689 mi (1,109 km) |
| Pagosa Springs | Colorado | 135 Country Center Dr, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147 | 847 mi (1,363 km) |
| Lake City | Colorado | 231 Silver St, Lake City, CO 81235 | 961 mi (1,547 km) |
| Salida | Colorado | 310 D St, Salida, CO 81201 | 1,061 mi (1,708 km) |
| Twin Lakes | Colorado | 6451 CO-82, Twin Lakes, CO 81251 | 1,144 mi (1,841 km) |
| Leadville | Colorado | 118 W 6th St, Leadville, CO 80461 | 1,181 mi (1,901 km) |
| Breckenridge | Colorado | 305 S Ridge St, Breckenridge, CO 80424 | 1,216 mi (1,957 km) |
| Winter Park | Colorado | 78821 US-40, Winter Park, CO 80482 | 1,290 mi (2,080 km) |
| Grand Lake | Colorado | 1415 County Rd 48, Grand Lake, CO 80447 | 1,343 mi (2,161 km) |
| Steamboat Springs | Colorado | 200 Lincoln Ave, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487 | 1,436 mi (2,311 km) |
| Rawlins | Wyoming | 500 W Cedar St, Rawlins, WY 82301 | 1,625 mi (2,615 km) |
| South Pass City | Wyoming | 125 Main St, South Pass City, WY 82520 | 1,748 mi (2,813 km) |
| Pinedale | Wyoming | 215 Country Club Ln, Pinedale, WY 82941 | 1,868 mi (3,006 km) |
| Dubois | Wyoming | 404 W Ramshorn St, Dubois, WY 82513 | 1,993 mi (3,207 km) |
| West Yellowstone | Montana | 10 S Geyser St, West Yellowstone, MT 59758 | 2,102 mi (3,383 km) |
| Lima | Montana | 100 Harrison St, Lima, MT 59739 | 2,200 mi (3,500 km) |
| Leadore | Idaho | 100 S Railroad St, Leadore, ID 83464 | 2,292 mi (3,689 km) |
| Darby | Montana | 101 S Main St, Darby, MT 59829 | 2,391 mi (3,848 km) |
| Helena | Montana | 2300 N Harris St, Helena, MT 59601 | 2,494 mi (4,014 km) |
| Lincoln | Montana | 120 Main St, Lincoln, MT 59639 | 2,599 mi (4,183 km) |
| East Glacier Park | Montana | 400 Hwy 49 N, East Glacier Park, MT 59434 | 2,704 mi (4,352 km) |
| Waterton Park | Alberta, Canada | 301 Windflower Ave, Waterton Park, AB T0K 2M0 | 2,800 mi (4,500 km) |

## Get in

The Southern Terminus of the Continental Divide Trail (CDT) is located at Crazy Cook Monument in the remote Bootheel of New Mexico, near the U.S.-Mexico border. The nearest major airport is in El Paso, TX, about 3.5-4 hours away, while the closest town with services is Lordsburg, NM, approximately 85 miles north of the terminus. Due to its isolation, there are no public transportation options, and most hikers arrange a shuttle through the Continental Divide Trail Coalition (CDTC), which departs from Lordsburg and costs around $150-$200 per person. Some local outfitters and trail angels also provide rides. Driving directly to Crazy Cook requires a 4WD high-clearance vehicle, as the roads are rough and sandy. Alternatively, some hikers start at Antelope Wells, the official US-Mexico border crossing, and hike 15-20 miles north to Crazy Cook. Before beginning the trail, many hikers stay in Lordsburg, which has motels, a grocery store, and a post office for last-minute resupply. The recommended route is to fly into El Paso, take a bus or hitch a ride to Lordsburg, and then take the CDTC shuttle to Crazy Cook Monument.

## Walk
### New Mexico

The New Mexico section of the Continental Divide Trail (CDT) is a journey through some of the most diverse and remote landscapes in the American West. Beginning at the 31.497071-108.2083811 Crazy Cook Monument (southern terminus), the trail stretches northward for roughly 820 miles, leading hikers through sun-scorched deserts, volcanic badlands, lush mountain forests, and historic frontier towns.
The journey begins in the Animas Valley and Playas Valley, a vast and arid expanse of sagebrush and sand, where water sources are scarce, and the desert sun is relentless. The first major landmark is 34.298333-108.1347222 Lordsburg (mi 85), a small town that serves as the first resupply point on the trail. From here, the CDT heads north into the more rugged terrain of Gila National Forest, one of the most scenic and historically significant sections of the entire trail.
The CDT winds its way toward the Gila River, where it follows the meandering waterway through steep canyons and lush riparian corridors. This region is famous for its hot springs and ancient cliff dwellings. At 33.198752-108.2080933 Doc Campbell’s Post (mi 203), a small outpost near the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, hikers can restock supplies, but options are limited—sending a resupply box here is a wise choice.
North of the Gila, the landscape shifts dramatically as the trail enters the blackened lava flows of El Malpaís National Monument. This otherworldly terrain, formed by ancient volcanic eruptions, presents a stark contrast to the lush river valleys left behind. The sharp, uneven rock formations are both mesmerizing and challenging to navigate.
Further north, the CDT reaches Pie Town, marked on the trail at 34.298333-108.1347224 Pie Town (mi 423). Despite its charm, Pie Town has no grocery store, making resupply boxes an essential strategy for those passing through.
Leaving Pie Town, the trail traverses the open plateaus and wooded ridges of Cibola National Forest, a vast region of ponderosa pine forests and grasslands. After passing through these rolling landscapes, hikers arrive in 35.155278-107.8422225 Grants (mi 553), a larger town offering full resupply options.
Beyond Grants, the CDT enters the San Pedro Parks Wilderness, a strikingly different environment filled with high meadows, dense spruce forests, and clear streams. The transition to higher elevations continues as the trail reaches 36.0183-106.966 Cuba (mi 660), another small but important town along the route.
The CDT then winds its way toward the Chama River Canyon Wilderness, a dramatic landscape of towering sandstone cliffs and hidden canyons. At 36.401799-106.4946557 Hwy 84 (mi 717), an 8-mile detour leads to Ghost Ranch, a historic retreat that once inspired the paintings of Georgia O’Keeffe.
Beyond Ghost Ranch, the trail climbs into the high country of Carson National Forest, where alpine meadows, thick aspen groves, and snow-capped peaks begin to dominate the skyline. The final resupply stop before crossing into Colorado is found at 37.017815-106.45028 Hwy 17 (mi 811), an access point leading to Chama, a well-equipped town where hikers can rest before tackling the higher elevations ahead.
At last, the trail reaches Cumbres Pass, the gateway to Colorado, where the forests of New Mexico give way to the towering peaks of the Southern Rockies. This final stretch through New Mexico encapsulates the state’s incredible diversity, offering a journey through time and terrain that few trails in the world can match.

### Colorado

Crossing into Colorado from Cumbres Pass, the Continental Divide Trail (CDT) embarks on a journey through some of the most breathtaking high-altitude terrain in North America. Towering peaks, deep valleys, and pristine alpine wilderness define this section, which stretches for over 750 miles before entering Wyoming. With the highest elevations of the entire CDT, including 14,278-foot (4,352 m), the trail in Colorado presents both exhilarating beauty and challenging conditions.
The trail enters Colorado’s San Juan Mountains, a rugged and remote range known for its steep climbs, unpredictable weather, and breathtaking scenery. The CDT skirts the edge of the South San Juan Wilderness, an area of dramatic ridgelines and alpine basins, before heading into the heart of the Weminuche Wilderness, the largest wilderness area in Colorado.
At 37.483186-106.8022269 Wolf Creek Pass (mi 881), hikers have the option to hitchhike 23 miles to Pagosa Springs. Continuing north, the trail weaves through high meadows and exposed ridgelines, offering stunning views but also requiring careful navigation through lingering snowfields early in the season.
Further along, the CDT reaches 38.493936-106.32641110 Monarch Pass (mi 980), where a 20-mile hitchhike leads to Salida, one of the most popular resupply points along the Colorado CDT. The town is known for its welcoming atmosphere, abundant restaurants, and gear shops catering to long-distance hikers.
As the trail moves northward, it skirts the Cochetopa Hills, a lesser-known but beautiful segment of rolling terrain partially within the La Garita Wilderness. At 37.940366-107.15880411 Hwy 149 (mi 999), a 17-mile hitchhike leads to Lake City, another key resupply town with limited services but a strong hiker-friendly culture.
Continuing north, the trail enters the Sawatch Range, home to some of Colorado’s tallest mountains. This segment is marked by long, exposed ridgelines and alpine passes, with portions of the route passing through the Holy Cross, Mount Massive, and Collegiate Peaks Wilderness Areas.
The small community of 39.825-105.00412 Twin Lakes (mi 1174) offers limited resupply options, but many hikers opt to mail a resupply box ahead of time. From here, the CDT climbs toward Tennessee Pass at 39.362219-106.31110513 Tennessee Pass (mi 1218), where a 9-mile hitch on Highway 24 reaches Leadville, a historic mining town and a full-service stop for hikers looking to recharge.
Beyond Leadville, the trail makes its way toward the ski resort towns of Breckenridge and Frisco, passing 39.538064-106.04258414 Hw 9 (mi 1256), where a 3-mile bus ride leads directly into Breckenridge. With plenty of grocery stores, outfitters, and lodging, Breckenridge is another key stop before hikers continue deeper into the Vasquez-Gore Segment, which winds through portions of the Vasquez Peak, Ptarmigan Peak, and Eagles Nest Wilderness Areas.
As the CDT continues northward, it enters the Front Range, where the route passes through the spectacular backcountry of Rocky Mountain National Park and the Indian Peaks Wilderness. A backcountry permit is required in Rocky Mountain National Park for any overnight trips, obtainable by writing to Rocky Mountain National Park, Backcountry Office, Estes Park, Colorado 80517-8397 or calling ☏ +1 970-586-1242.
The trail reaches Grand Lake (mi 1387), a well-known gateway town to Rocky Mountain National Park, offering various resupply options and a chance to explore one of Colorado’s most famous natural wonders. From here, the CDT climbs through rugged terrain toward the Rabbit Ears Range, a series of volcanic formations that mark the beginning of the northern Colorado mountains.
Finally, at 40.381045-106.5795815 Hwy 40 (mi 1485), hikers can take a 25-mile hitchhike into Steamboat Springs, a town with excellent resupply options, and a chance to relax before entering the final stretch of the state.
As the trail leaves the Mount Zirkel Wilderness, it transitions from the high peaks of the Rockies into the rolling terrain leading toward Wyoming. Here, the CDT enters the vast open landscapes of the Great Divide Basin, leaving behind the towering peaks of Colorado for the remote, windswept expanses of the next stage of the journey.

### Wyoming

Leaving behind the towering peaks of Colorado, the Continental Divide Trail (CDT) in Wyoming begins in the rugged Sierra Madre Mountains before transitioning into the stark, wind-swept terrain of the Great Divide Basin. This section is one of the most varied on the entire CDT, featuring vast high desert plains, remote mountain wilderness, and some of the most iconic landscapes in the American West—including Yellowstone National Park.
Crossing into Wyoming, the CDT winds through the Sierra Madre Segment, where hikers encounter rolling hills and dense forests partially within the Huston Park Wilderness. At 41.153871-106.98142516 WY 70 (mi 1569), a hitchhike to Encampment or Riverside offers limited resupply options before the trail heads into one of its most infamous sections: the Great Divide Basin.
The Great Divide Basin Segment is unlike any other part of the CDT. Instead of following a single ridgeline, the Continental Divide splits here, creating an internal drainage basin where no water flows to the ocean. This means long, dry stretches of arid high desert, where water sources are scarce, shade is almost nonexistent, and temperatures can soar during the day while plummeting at night. The only major resupply stop in this desolate region is 41.790278-107.23416717 Rawlins (mi 1652), a full-service town and an essential stop before tackling the long, remote trek ahead.
After enduring the desert heat of the Great Divide Basin, the CDT reenters alpine terrain near 42.462088-108.85129818 WY-28 (mi 1773), where hikers can hitchhike into Lander, a historic town with ample services and a welcoming hiker community. From here, the trail climbs into the Bridger Wilderness Segment, home to the Wind River Range, often considered one of the most spectacular sections of the entire CDT.
With jagged granite peaks, glacial-fed lakes, and challenging terrain, the Wind River Range demands both endurance and careful planning. The CDT intersects with the famed Highline Trail at 43.315393-109.85377719 Highline Trail Jct. (mi 1852), offering a hitchhike to Pinedale, a full-service town and a critical resupply point before tackling the high-altitude wilderness ahead.
North of the Winds, the trail crosses Wyoming Highway 26 at 43.718679-110.01271720 Wy 26 (mi 1940), where a hitchhike leads to Dubois, a small town with limited resupply options. Beyond Dubois, the CDT enters the Teton Wilderness Segment, a remote and rugged stretch that eventually skirts the boundary of Grand Teton National Park.
As hikers push further north, they arrive in Yellowstone National Park, the world’s first national park and a highlight of the CDT. The trail crosses geyser-filled landscapes, steaming hot springs, and wildlife-rich valleys, passing near iconic landmarks like the Old Faithful Geyser. At 44.460455-110.82817621 Old Faithful Village (Yellowstone National Park) (mi 2042), hikers can access limited resupply options, though many choose to mail a resupply box ahead of time due to the limited availability of supplies.
After traversing the geothermal wonders of Yellowstone’s Old Faithful Segment, the CDT approaches the Wyoming-Montana border. Here, the trail prepares to enter the rugged terrain of the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness, where the divide forms the state line between Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. From the desolate expanses of the Great Divide Basin to the glacier-carved summits of the Wind River Range, the Wyoming section of the CDT offers some of the most dramatic contrasts in landscape, challenging hikers with its extremes and rewarding them with some of the most stunning wilderness in the country.

### Idaho & Montana

As the Continental Divide Trail (CDT) leaves Yellowstone National Park, it begins one of the most rugged and remote portions of its journey. The trail straddles the Idaho-Montana border, winding through vast, untamed wilderness areas where the mountains stretch endlessly toward the horizon. This final stretch of the CDT is dominated by high ridgelines, deep glacial valleys, and some of the wildest backcountry in the United States.
The lowest elevation on the entire CDT, Waterton Lake (4,200 ft), lies at its northern terminus in Glacier National Park, marking the grand finale of this epic adventure.
The CDT first traverses the Centennial Mountains, a remote and rugged range that forms part of the Idaho-Montana border. This stretch is defined by open ridgelines and long, exposed sections, making it both stunningly beautiful and challenging.
At 44.635833-112.59194422 Lima, MT (mi 2174), hikers can take a break in the small town of Lima, where resupply options are limited, making it wise to mail a resupply box ahead of time.
From Lima, the trail continues along the border before reaching 44.814326-113.27250923 Bannock Pass (mi 2294), where a 13-mile hitchhike on ID 29 leads to Leadore, Idaho. Leadore is a small but welcoming town with limited resupply options, often serving as a critical stop for hikers looking to rest and regroup before continuing north.
Beyond Bannock Pass, the CDT climbs into the Bitterroot Mountains, where it reaches 45.685489-113.93428324 Chief Joseph Pass (mi 2417). From here, a 31-mile hitchhike leads to Darby, Montana, a full-service town that caters to hikers.
The trail then moves into the Big Hole Segment, a historic region where Lewis and Clark once traveled. Rolling terrain and expansive meadows dominate this section, but soon the CDT enters one of its most challenging and beautiful stretches: the Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness. This section is famous for its jagged peaks, crystal-clear alpine lakes, and some of the most difficult terrain on the Montana portion of the trail.
At 46.127778-112.95833325 Anaconda, MT (mi 2659), hikers can take an alternate route into Anaconda, a full-service town and a popular stopping point for those who need to resupply or take a break.
Further along, 46.592778-112.03526 Hwy 12 (mi 2687) offers a 16-mile hitchhike to Helena, the state capital of Montana, where hikers can find ample services, grocery stores, and gear shops.
At 47.473542-112.85870827 Stemple Pass (mi 2730), a 20-mile hitch leads to Lincoln, another small but crucial resupply stop before hikers push into the remote heart of Montana’s wilderness.
From Lincoln, the CDT ventures into the Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex, one of the largest contiguous wilderness areas in the lower 48 states. This stretch is a true test of backcountry endurance, with long distances between resupply points, wild rivers, and grizzly bear country.
At 47.473542-112.85870828 Benchmark Trailhead (mi 2814), hikers are just 1.5 miles from Benchmark Ranch, where mailing a resupply box is essential, as there are no stores in the area.
After passing through the remote Scapegoat Wilderness, the CDT finally reaches Glacier National Park, the crown jewel of Montana’s wilderness. Towering peaks, deep glacial valleys, and alpine lakes define this final section of the CDT.
At 48.443889-113.22166729 East Glacier Park Village (mi 2950), hikers arrive at the last major resupply town before reaching the Canadian border. From here, the trail winds through the breathtaking scenery of Glacier National Park, passing through 48.7975-113.657530 Many Glacier (mi 3014), where towering peaks and turquoise lakes mark the final stretch.
The CDT reaches its northern terminus at 48.998681-113.90611931 Canadian border (mi 3051), where it meets Waterton Lake, a pristine glacial lake that straddles the border between the U.S. and Canada.
For those continuing beyond, the trail extends slightly further to the 49.047003-113.91664632 Bertha Lake Trailhead (mi 3055), a fitting final destination for one of the most incredible long-distance hikes in the world.

## Stay safe

The trail traverses through some of the most extreme wilderness in the continental USA. Trail users should be prepared for any emergency and accordingly plan ahead. It is best to be familiar with outdoor travel by reading about the area you may be traveling in and learn about potential hazards. Basic understanding of how to prevent hypothermia and heat exhaustion or how to avoid and treat poisonous plants and animals among other potentially life threatening situations can help to ensure that your time on the CDT will be rewarding. Trail users are cautioned to expect encounters with rattlesnakes, and be mindful of the presence of wolves and bears. Always letting others know where you are going and when you plan to return is a basic premise when traveling in remote areas. More detailed general safety tips can be found in the Wilderness backpacking section.
There's no reason to fear the mountains, as long as you approach them with proper respect and preparation. As with anywhere else, recklessness and a lack of forethought can get you into trouble, especially in areas with vast and remote back country.
* Altitude sickness - Can lead to dizziness, headaches, nausea, even blackouts and pulmonary edema. Give your body a few days to adjust to the high altitudes before going full throttle with your hiking.
* Dehydration - When you engage in strenuous outdoor activities, be sure to replenish your fluids as you go. You may be losing moisture through your mouth and nose and through sweating, but be completely unaware due to the arid mountain air. May result in dizziness, intense thirst and elevated heart and breath rates.
* Giardia - Drinking untreated water from regional streams is not a good idea owing to Giardia parasites, but tap water is not a problem.
* Hypothermia - Prolonged exposure to the cold can result in confusion, a slowed heart rate, lethargy, even death. Dress warmly in non cotton clothing to allow any sweat to wick away from your body and evaporate. Otherwise, it may thoroughly chill you later in the day when temperatures drop.
* Frostbite - During periods of severe cold, your circulatory system pulls all your warming blood into the core of your body to protect your vital organs. This makes your extremities such as your ears, fingers and nose especially vulnerable. Wear a face mask, insulated gloves and other heavy gear on the worst winter days.
* Sunburn - Lather up with sunscreen, even if there's cloud cover. The high mountain elevations means you have less protection to the sun's powerful ultra violet rays. The rays are reflected off the snow and hits the underside of your jaw. Don't forget to wear UV-rated goggles or sunglasses, as well.
* Know your 10 essentials when going on a hike, because cell phones won't always work in many rural areas, and may not be depended on in an emergency situation.
1. Navigation 2. Hydration & Nutrition 3. Pocket Knife 4. Sun Protection 5. Insulation 6. Fire! 7. Lighting 8. First Aid 9. Shelter 10. Whistle
In the southern segments especially there is a possibility of encounters with undocumented aliens and drug runners. While the US Border Patrol is familiar with the Trail route and water cache locations, Trail users should be prepared to provide identification.
* Do not leave vehicles at the Mexican border.
* Lock your vehicle, storing valuables and water out of sight.
* For safety reasons especially, please sign in and out at trailhead registers.
Shared use of these public lands includes ranching and mining.
Water is life and blood in this area. Do not adjust or tamper with water facilities. Do not trespass on private property by approaching ranch houses. Avoid land indicated in white on the land status maps unless trail signs lead you there (indicating an approved easement). While the Trail has been located to avoid open mine shafts, these hazards exist regionally and are not always apparent.

## Go next

The vast majority of hikers use only parts of this trail, for example to travel between Glacier National Park and the Bob Marshall Wilderness Area in Montana. Many back country hikers may have even been on this trail and not realized it since it utilizes many different types of trails in different areas.
American Discovery Trail: An east-west trail that crosses the contiguous United States from Delaware to northern California. Crosses the CDT in Colorado in the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness.
Pacific Northwest Trail: An east-west trail that runs from Glacier National Park in Montana to the Cape Alava on the Washington coast.