GOLDEN, Colo. (May 20, 2021) – As vaccination for Covid-19 becomes more widely available and the Center for Disease Control issues more lenient guidance regarding outdoor recreation, CDTC is adjusting our guidance for traveling along the CDT and restarting programming in support of our Trail Community.
While it is no longer a CDC recommendation that vaccinated individuals need to wear masks outdoors, we encourage all individuals, regardless of vaccination status, to wear masks in cars, closed spaces, and indoors, particularly in the Trail’s vulnerable remote communities. As Covid guidance continues to evolve, we remind all trail users to remain familiar with current local, regional, and national regulations and recommendations.
We also recommend that anyone looking to travel long-distance on the CDT receive a vaccination in advance of their trip, to best help protect themself and the Trail’s communities.
SHUTTLE
We anticipate opening booking for CDTC’s Southern Terminus shuttle on June 15th and will be posting information for SOBO Travelers on how to sign up, as well as anyone wanting to section-hike the southern segment of the CDT. Individuals who have already booked a ride on the shuttle will be given more information shortly. Thank you for your patience, we are eager to see you all soon!
TRAILBLAZERS PROGRAM
We are so thrilled to be able to announce the reopening of our CDTC Trailblazers program, which showcases the creative pursuits of long-distance travelers! Through writing, photography, painting, video, and other media, our Trail Blazers share their perspectives from the trail, represent the CDTC, help spread Leave No Trace ethics, and share the message of trail stewardship. In return, they’ll get CDT swag, contribute to the conservation work of CDTC and share their stories with CDTC’s fast-growing audience of social media followers.
Please see the flyer here! Interested individuals should send 5 samples of their work, a brief (300 word) introduction to themselves and their idea for a creative pursuit while on trail, and the anticipated length of their trip, to [email protected] by June 4th. We understand that some prospective Trail Blazers may already be traveling the CDT, so please help us spread the word! Please reach out to [email protected] with any questions or concerns.
SNOW
Some Northbound CDT travelers are already reaching the border of Colorado and are anticipating the climb into the San Juan mountains. We want to urgently remind trail users that these rugged and remote areas are experiencing high snow and that specific skills, equipment, and knowledge are needed to safely navigate these environments. If you are unsure if you have the capability to safely complete a trip through these areas, wait and do not risk your safety.
Please find the below resources regarding avalanche safety and the Colorado snowpack:
- https://www.avalanche.state.co.us/
- https://www.postholer.com/snow/Continental-Divide-Trail/2
- https://wcc.sc.egov.usda.gov/reports/UpdateReport.html?report=Colorado&format=SNOTEL+Snowpack+Update+Report
- https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detail/co/snow/products/?cid=nrcs144p2_063323
VISAS
As we begin to create an FAQ section of our website regarding international travel, we’d like to include some notes here for clarity: While weather, athletic ability, health, and other variables may influence the duration of a thru hike or ride of the CDT, it is typical for such an undertaking to last between four and six months. International travellers interested in long-distance or thru-travel on the CDT should consider a B-2 Pleasure, Tourism, Medical Treatment – Visitor Visa, which grants 180 days in the United States. Additional measures may be needed if the traveler wishes to enter Canada or Mexico and return to the United States. As you plan your trip, be sure to include extra time to prepare for, and return from, your travel along the CDT.
Please also note that CDTC is not available to vouch for, act as representative for, or otherwise facilitate the visa process for intending travelers.
CONNECTION
We’ve received several recent communications from concerned friends and family about long-distance trail users and wanted to offer up an important reminder: due to its remoteness, the CDT frequently does not have cell phone service. In some areas, satellite beacons may not work. It is not uncommon for travelers to go several days, if not longer, between areas with signals. Also, the CDT contains many alternate routes that differ from the single line seen on some maps. For folks watching a CDT traveler’s journey from home via GPS coordinates, please be aware that a traveler could be off the “official” CDT you may see on your map without being lost. If you are concerned for the immediate safety of your loved ones, please call 911 to initiate necessary resources to begin a Search and Rescue mission.
Thank you all so much for your patience and help as we work to get back to normal along the CDT. We are so excited for the changes we’re making this month, and will continue to keep you updated!
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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.
