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Continental Divide National Scenic Trail wilderness guide
National Scenic Trail · MT, ID, WY, CO, NM

Continental Divide National Scenic Trail

The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail spans five states, offering a transformative hiking experience from Canada to Mexico along the spine of the Rocky Mountains.

National Scenic TrailNo specific acreage; spans across multiple land designations4+ Trails

Designation

National Scenic Trail

Total Wilderness Area

No specific acreage; spans across multiple land designations

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Continental Divide National Scenic Trail

The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail spans five states, offering a transformative hiking experience from Canada to Mexico along the spine of the Rocky Mountains.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail (CDT) is a 3,100-mile trail that follows the Continental Divide of the Americas along the Rocky Mountains. As one of the longest trails in the United States, it meanders through some of the most breathtaking and remote terrains across Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, Colorado, and New Mexico. This trail showcases diverse ecosystems, from the alpine regions of Glacier National Park to the high desert of New Mexico. It provides opportunities for long-distance hiking, offering solitude and personal challenge for those seeking a thru-hike experience. In addition to its ecological significance, the CDT is rich in history, intersecting with historic trade routes and ancient paths used by Native American tribes. Key recreational opportunities abound, including hiking, horseback riding, and wildlife observation. Along the trail, hikers can explore notable landmarks such as the stunning Wind River Range in Wyoming and the rugged San Juan Mountains in Colorado, making the CDT an enduring symbol of American wilderness and outdoor adventure.

Field Guide · National Scenic Trail
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Continental Divide National Scenic Trail

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Majestic Beauty: Cedar Peak, Cody, Wyoming★ 8.2⌖ 21 miHiking
Cedar Peak

Majestic Beauty: Cedar Peak, Cody, Wyoming

Explore Cedar Peak near Cody, Wyoming. With rugged terrain, it's perfect for hiking and rock climbing adventures. Best in spring and fall to avoid extremes. Enjoy tranquil wildlife observation and captivating views in this adventure-seeker's paradise.

Discover the Beauty of Hayden Arch Bridge★ 6.8⌖ 21 miHiking
Hayden Arch Bridge

Discover the Beauty of Hayden Arch Bridge

Explore the stunning Hayden Arch Bridge near Cody, Wyoming. Featuring trails for all levels and fishing at Shoshone River. Visit during spring or fall for ideal conditions. Perfect for hikers, anglers, and wildlife enthusiasts.

Spirit Mountain Cave: A Hidden Gem★ 6.8⌖ 21 miCave Exploration
Spirit Mountain Cave

Spirit Mountain Cave: A Hidden Gem

Explore Spirit Mountain Cave near Cody, WY. Guided tours reveal stunning limestone formations and local folklore. Enjoy nearby hiking and wildlife viewing in the lush surroundings. Ideal for adventure seekers interested in geology and history.

Cave ExplorationView Details→
Discover the Untamed Beauty of Dead Indian Pass★ 7.8⌖ 24 miSightseeing
Dead Indian Pass

Discover the Untamed Beauty of Dead Indian Pass

Dead Indian Pass in Wyoming offers breathtaking vistas and rich history in the Absaroka Range. Enjoy sightseeing, hiking, and wildlife watching here. The area is known for its quiet atmosphere and best visited from late spring to early fall.

SightseeingView Details→
Nature's Serenity: Paul Stock Nature Trail★ 8.2⌖ 25 miHiking
Paul Stock Nature Trail

Nature's Serenity: Paul Stock Nature Trail

Explore the 2.8-mile Paul Stock Nature Trail in Cody, WY. An easy hike along the Shoshone River, it's ideal for families and offers wildlife viewing opportunities. Accessible during spring and fall, visitors enjoy the scenic views and rich history associated with Buffalo Bill.

Rock Arches in Cody: A Natural Wonder★ 8.2⌖ 26 miHiking
Hiking Buddy LLC

Rock Arches in Cody: A Natural Wonder

Explore the stunning rock arches near Cody, WY. The area offers diverse hiking trails and captivating geological features. Generally uncrowded, it's ideal for photography and nature walks. Best visited in spring or fall.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Glacier National Park in Montana✦ San Juan Mountains in Colorado✦ Gila Wilderness in New Mexico✦ Wind River Range in Wyoming
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Continental Divide National Scenic Trail

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Continental Divide National Scenic Trail.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No passes required, but permits needed for certain sections in national parks.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Continental Divide National Scenic Trail

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

San Pedro Parks Wilderness Campgrounds

Accessible from the CDT, offering remote camping amid diverse ecosystems.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Continental Divide National Scenic Trail

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Wapiti
⌖ 6.91 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Wapiti, Wyoming

A gateway community to vast wilderness and rugged outdoor adventures near Yellowstone, offering year-round access to hiking, wildlife viewing, and backcountry activities.

Late Spring through Early Fall for hiking and wildlife; Winter for skiingExplore Town
Cody
⌖ 25.65 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Cody, Wyoming

A gateway to the Wild West where rugged landscapes and adventure sports converge amid rich Western history.

Meeteetse
⌖ 38.89 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Meeteetse, Wyoming

A gateway town offering rugged Western charm and access to abundant wildlife, scenic river adventures, and vast forested landscapes ideal for outdoor exploration.

Late spring through early fallExplore Town
Silver Gate
⌖ 45.44 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Silver Gate, Montana

A charming gateway to Yellowstone with rustic appeal and abundant wilderness adventures.

Summer and WinterExplore Town
Canyon Village
⌖ 50.55 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Canyon Village, Wyoming

A gateway to extraordinary natural wonders and outdoor adventures in the heart of Yellowstone National Park.

Summer and FallExplore Town
Red Lodge
⌖ 54.94 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Red Lodge, Montana

A charming gateway to the Beartooth Mountains offering abundant year-round outdoor adventures and rugged mountain scenery.

Summer and FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Continental Divide National Scenic Trail

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Lower Loop Tour (Geology & Thermal Emphasis) | Guided Tour in Cody, WyomingCody, Wyoming · 6.77 mi away
All Adventures· Experience Yellowstone Tours

Lower Loop Tour (Geology & Thermal Emphasis) | Guided Tour in Cody, Wyoming

Discover Yellowstone's geothermal wonders on the Lower Loop Tour with Experience Yellowstone Tours. This private, guided experience offers an up-close look at geothermal features and geology, perfect for curious travelers and nature lovers. Explore bubbling geysers, colorful mineral deposits, and learn about Earth's geological activity in a personalized setting.

4–6 hours

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Family Float | Rafting in Buena Vista | Buena Vista, Colorado · 24.94 mi away
On the Water· River Runners

Family Float | Rafting in Buena Vista |

Kick off your Colorado adventure with a family-friendly raft trip on the Arkansas River. Perfect for kids and beginners, this float combines gentle rapids with stunning mountain views—an experience everyone will enjoy. Join River Runners for a scenic, safe, and splashy family adventure that transforms water fun into lifelong memories.

1.5 hours

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Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.