Colorado’s First Official CDT Gateway Community Plans a Weekend of Celebrations
The Continental Divide Trail Coalition (CDTC) is proud to celebrate the 10th anniversary of South Fork’s designation as the first Continental Divide National Scenic Trail (CDT) Gateway Community in Colorado. The CDT Gateway Community program was established in 2014 to elevate towns and communities that are friendly to trail users and dedicated to the completion and protection of the CDT.
“This anniversary is a testament to the power of community,” said Jordan Williams, Colorado regional representative for the CDTC. “South Fork, as part of the greater San Luis Valley gateway region, has been a shining example of what a small group of local volunteers and organizations can do to make a big impact — not just as a town along the trail, but as a partner in stewardship, recreation and hospitality.”
The town of South Fork, in collaboration with the Continental Divide Trail Coalition, the Silverthreaders Outdoor Club and other local partners, will host a weekend of community events June 13–15 to celebrate the 10th anniversary of its designation as a CDT Gateway Community.
Over three days, residents, visitors and outdoor enthusiasts are invited to participate in a variety of free, family-friendly activities designed to honor the town’s connection to the CDT and the people who help support it. The celebration will include community engagement at the South Fork Visitor Center, themed gatherings and outdoor experiences that reflect the town’s trail stewardship and outdoor recreation culture.
The milestone comes as hiking season begins in southern Colorado, with CDT thru-hikers and section hikers making their way through the San Juan Mountains. Despite lingering snow and wet conditions, the South Fork community continues to support trail users with resources, transportation assistance, and a welcoming environment.
For a decade, South Fork has served as a vital hub for hikers and trail advocates, thanks to the dedication of local volunteers, ambassadors and partner organizations. This anniversary celebration offers a chance to reflect on that commitment and look ahead to the future of the CDT in the region. Events will include:
- Fri. June 13: Community Cleanup at the Visitor Center and CDTC Booth with giveaways 11am-2pm
- Fri. June 13: CDT Trail Trivia night at the LOGE 4-7pm – free food/drinks and special door prizes
- Sat. June 14: CDT Volunteer Adopter Training and Trail Maintenance work day near Wolf Creek Pass
- Sun. June 15: Father’s Day Hike and Cookout at the Lobo Overlook with the Silverthreaders 12-3pm
For more information, visit cdtcoalition.org or contact [email protected].
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About CDT Gateway Communities
CDT Gateway Communities are welcoming destinations along the Continental Divide Trail for people from around the world looking to experience the CDT. Towns and counties that self-select to pursue designation as an official CDT Gateway Communities are friendly to trail users and dedicated to the completion and protection of the trail. CDTC partners with Gateway Communities to give visitors a great experience and to continue our work completing, protecting, and elevating the Continental Divide Trail. More information
About the Continental Divide Trail
The CDT is one of the world’s premier 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, elevate, and protect the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail, a world-class national resource. For more information, please visit https://cdtcoalition.org/.
