Difficult

Continental Divide Trail

Hidalgo County, New Mexico · 5.0 star · 3 reviews

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Recommended offline maps for Continental Divide Trail

USGS Scans

United States of America · [0, 24]

USGS Topo

United States of America · [0, 24]

US National Parks Maps

United States of America · [0, 24]

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What to expect

The Continental Divide Trail is a 3,100-mile long-distance hiking trail that runs from Mexico to Canada along the Continental Divide in the Rocky Mountains. It's considered one of the most challenging and rewarding hikes in the world, passing through some of the highest and most remote mountains in North America.

If you're an experienced hiker looking for a new challenge, the Continental Divide Trail might be the perfect adventure for you. Here are some tips to help you plan your hike:

Know your fitness level: The Continental Divide Trail is a long and strenuous hike, with many steep inclines and rocky terrain. It's important to be in good physical condition before attempting this hike. Make sure you have experience with multi-day backpacking trips and are comfortable hiking for long distances.
Plan your route: The Continental Divide Trail is divided into 30 sections, ranging from 50 to 300 miles in length. You can choose to hike the entire trail or just a portion of it. Consider the amount of time you have available and your fitness level when deciding how much of the trail to tackle.
Pack wisely: The Continental Divide Trail passes through a variety of different climates, so it's important to pack accordingly. Make sure you have the right gear for the weather, including a rain jacket, warm layers, and sturdy hiking boots. It's also a good idea to bring a first aid kit, map, and other essential supplies.
Know the regulations: The Continental Divide Trail is managed by the U.S. Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management, so it's important to follow their regulations. This includes obtaining any necessary permits, following Leave No Trace principles, and respecting private property.
Be prepared for wildlife: The Continental Divide Trail passes through some of the wildest and most remote areas in the country, so it's important to be prepared for encounters with wildlife. Make sure you know how to safely interact with animals like bears and mountain lions, and have bear spray with you at all times.

Hiking the Continental Divide Trail is an epic adventure that will take you through some of the most beautiful and challenging landscapes in the world. With the right planning and preparation, you'll have an unforgettable experience on this incredible trail.

For information on how we grade trails, please click here. Also, check our latest community posts for trail updates.

This trail can be completed in approx 309 days. Caution is advised on trail times as this depends on multiple variables. For more info, click here.