Continental Divide Trail Trail

A vast, self-reliant thru-hike that follows the backbone of the Rockies through the western United States.

Time to Hike: 150-180 days typical for through-hikers, covering about 4,900 km end to end.

Best Time to Go: Summer months are the main window; high passes hold snow into early summer and late-season storms arrive by autumn.

Getting there: Access is by road and regional airports to multiple trailheads along the route which traverses the Rocky Mountains in the United States. Major resupply towns and trailheads are spread widely, so plan transport in advance.

Costs: Budget depends on style but expect several thousand US dollars for food, occasional lodging, shuttles and gear replacements; there is no single through-hiker permit though some parks and wilderness areas require separate permits and fees.

Difficulty: Long, remote hiking with frequent high alpine passes and long days between resupply; expect significant route finding, variable trail quality, river crossings and exposure to weather and wildfire smoke.

Rocky Mountains backbone: The Continental Divide Trail links desert mesas, high alpine tundra, forested slopes and glaciated ranges as it follows the continental divide from southern New Mexico north through Colorado, Wyoming and into Montana. The route alternates sustained trail running with long, remote stretches where services are infrequent.

Huts and camping: There is no continuous hut network. Overnight options are predominantly backcountry camping, occasional simple shelters, and services in resupply towns. The trail is notable for its sheer scale and variety - long wilderness days, dramatic passes and the experience of crossing state after state on one continuous spine.

Albuquerque and Denver are the main air gateways for most sections; both have frequent flights and bus or rental car options to regional trail access points. Southern access is best arranged with transport into rural New Mexico and northern exits can be reached from airports serving Montana and nearby cities.

Most through-hikers walk northbound from the southern end toward Montana because of seasonal snow patterns and resupply logistics, though both directions are common. Organise shuttles or vehicle support for remote roadheads and expect some long road transfers between towns.

The primary hiking season runs roughly from late May or June through early September, though exact windows vary by latitude and elevation across the Rocky Mountains. High passes may still carry snow into June or July, and autumn storms can arrive early at altitude.

Check for required backcountry permits in restricted wilderness areas and reserve campsites or quota permits where they apply. Be prepared for summer thunderstorms, sudden temperature swings at high elevations and the increasing possibility of wildfire smoke during late summer.