The Continental Divide Trail (CDT) is more than just a footpath—it’s a 3,100-mile national treasure stretching from Mexico to Canada, winding through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in North America, including right here in Wind River Country.
The Continental Divide Trail Gateway Community of Lander-South Pass City celebrates Continental Divide Trail Awareness Week from August 24 to 30. During the week, residents, visitors and outdoor enthusiasts are invited to discover and celebrate the CDT’s beauty, history and significance.
In Wind River Country, the trail passes near iconic destinations such as Sinks Canyon State Park and the alpine meadows and rugged peaks along the Wind River Range. Wind River Country serves as a welcoming basecamp for hikers and travelers exploring this section of the CDT.
Ways to Participate:
- Special Podcast Episode—Tune in Thursday, Aug. 28, at windriver.org/podcasts for stories and insights about the CDT in Wind River Country.
- Take a Day Hike—Join veteran CDT hikers Nikki Mann and Jeff Wohl of Lander for a moderate two to three-mile hike along the CDT. Meet at the Dance Hall at South Pass City State Historic Site at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 30. For more information, visit southpasscity.org.
- Share Your Story — Post your favorite trail moments or scenic shots with the hashtag #WindRiverCountry.
- Support Local Businesses—Many shops and restaurants in Wind River Country welcome hikers and outdoor travelers—stop in and experience the hospitality.
The CDT is one of the nation’s 11 National Scenic Trails, connecting communities, cultures and landscapes along the backbone of the Rockies. Celebrating CDT Awareness Week helps to ensure that this wild and scenic corridor remains protected and cherished for generations to come.
10 Fun Facts About The CDT and Its Hikers:
- 3,100 miles long—The Continental Divide Trail stretches from the Mexican border in New Mexico to the Canadian border in Montana.
- Five states—It crosses New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming, Idaho and Montana.
- High point—The highest point on the CDT is Gray’s Peak in Colorado at 14,278 feet.
- Gateway communities—Cities like Lander and South Pass City are official CDT Gateway Communities, offering resources and warm welcomes to hikers.
- Wildlife encounters—CDT hikers often spot elk, moose, bighorn sheep, bears and even mountain goats.
- Triple Crown quest—Completing the CDT, Appalachian Trail and Pacific Crest Trail earns hikers the “Triple Crown” of long-distance hiking.
- Trail names—Many hikers adopt quirky trail names like “Splash” or “Blaze” that reflect personality, stories or trail experiences.
- Varied terrain—The trail includes deserts, high alpine passes, grasslands and deep forests—sometimes all in the same week.
- Remote stretches—Some sections in Wyoming’s Great Divide Basin can be over 100 miles without resupply points.
- Economic boost—Long-distance hikers spend an average of $4,000 to $6,000 in trail towns on food, lodging, gear and local services, bringing significant seasonal revenue to communities along the route.
For more information about the Continental Divide Trail and CDT Awareness Week activities, visit https://windriver.org/event/continental-divide-trail-cdt-awareness-week/.
