GOLDEN, Colo. (November 16, 2021) – AN IMPORTANT NOTE FOR SOUTHBOUND CDT TRAVELERS:
Dear CDTC South bounders,
We know many of you are en route to the Southern Monument to complete your southbound hike of the CDT. We have a few updates about the access to the southern monument and terminus.
This summer the Bootheel region of New Mexico received heavy rains during the monsoon. During these heavy rains, the Commodore Road, used to access the southern monument, was significantly damaged. While this is not uncommon, the road is in very bad condition and is unlikely to be fixed any time soon. While CDTC has been operating our shuttle, the deterioration of the road to the Monument is impacting our ability to do so safely and consistently. CDTC regrets that we must end the official terminus shuttle for the Fall season, due to the road conditions and inability to ensure safety for our drivers and passengers.
CDTC also highly recommends that folks hoping to have family and friends meet them at the monument should do so only if the vehicle being used has high clearance and good tires, and that drivers be prepared with food, water, and a functional beacon or other satellite communication devices. Cell phone service is NOT reliable. In addition, if cars are stuck, AAA or other services may not be able to assist, or it may take several days to do so and be very expensive. We have learned that several cars have been damaged or stranded due to the road conditions, and we urge all CDT travelers who are considering driving to the Southern Terminus to exercise great caution.
If you do elect to drive to the Southern Terminus, please contact U.S. Customs and Border Patrol at 575-531-3010 (Lordsburg Field Station) ahead of time, to alert them to your presence. They are also the 911 first responders for the vicinity in case of emergency.
Regarding water caches, CDT travelers should be prepared that full water caches are NOT guaranteed at this time. There is a spigot at the Sheridan Wells Windmill at mile 12, and the spigot at the well at mile 38.2, as alternative water sources.
CDT Travelers in the area may consider the following alternatives:
- Get dropped off/picked up by a friend or relative at the Cache Box 2 (Highway 81 crossing), with plenty of food and water for the 64-mile round trip;
- Complete the trip in Lordsburg without finishing at the monument;
- Complete the trip at Antelope Wells;
- Return in the spring when more resources are available and CDTC shuttle operations are at full capacity to ensure consistent and safe terminus access;
- Contact private individuals who are doing some pickups at the monument and to and from Highway 81, for donations. Travelers may wish to ask at the Triple Crown Hostel in Silver City or the Hachita Store for folks who may be available for support, but CDTC can not guarantee the availability of these private individuals.
We understand that this change presents logistical difficulties for CDT travelers. We’ll keep you informed as to any further updates; as we know more, you’ll know more. Thank you for your help navigating the extraordinary circumstances of this year, and for being a part of the CDT community.
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About the Continental Divide Trail
The CDT is one of the world’s premiere long-distance trails, stretching 3,100 miles from Mexico to Canada along the Continental Divide. Designated by Congress in 1978, the CDT is the highest, most challenging and most remote of the 11 National Scenic Trails. It provides recreational opportunities ranging from hiking to horseback riding to hunting for thousands of visitors each year. While 95% of the CDT is located on public land, approximately 150 miles are still in need of protection.
About the Continental Divide Trail Coalition
The CDTC was founded in 2012 by volunteers and recreationists hoping to provide a unified voice for the Trail. Working hand-in-hand with the U.S. Forest Service and other federal land management agencies, the CDTC is a non-profit partner supporting stewardship of the CDT. The mission of the CDTC is to complete, promote and protect the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail, a world-class national resource. For more information, please visit continentaldividetrail.org.
