The Continental Divide Trail (CDT) unites us. From Gateway Community residents to thru-travelers, and everyone in between, our diverse community is connected by our mission to protect the CDT. Starting today, we’ll be showcasing stories of the people and places that make up our community with our new series, Voices of the CDT. Each month, look out for new stories that highlight these diverse experiences, histories, and faces, against the backdrop of the awe-inspiring Continental Divide.
INTERESTED IN SHARING YOUR CONNECTION TO THESE LANDSCAPES? SEND US YOUR STORY AT [email protected] FOR A CHANCE TO BE FEATURED!
BRUCE WONGSTROM
HORSE-PACKING GUIDE BASED OUT OF PAGOSA SPRINGS, COLORADO
“I grew up in Littleton, Coloraodo, where my dad was a gunsmith. I got my first horse at eight years old and started doing 4-H. I have been riding ever since. I left a job in Denver to join a guide and outfitter in Gunnison for 10 years and then ended up in Durango because of a woman I met while guiding for San Juan Outfitters.
The section of the CDT that I have guided many times is from Wolf Creek Pass north of Pagosa Springs, over South River Peak, to east of Silverton at Cunningham Gulch in the Weminuche Wilderness. The trip covers 120 miles in 6-7 days, meaning you ride for as long as 20 miles each day. While a tough trip, especially for folks who don’t ride often or are unprepared, I think this is the most spectacular section of the CDT.
Twenty-two years ago I was riding in the high country when I started having bad headaches. It turns out it was a brain aneurysm. My horse saved my life and carried me to the trailhead where an outfitter found us. I was back to guiding three years later. Now, at 71 year old, I am pretty much retired and ride infrequently but still make sure to spend time with horses and on the trail.”
Pueblos & Núu-agha-tʉvʉ-pʉ̱ (Ute) Lands. Photos provided by Tara Lynch.
