Dear CDTC community,
Preparations have begun for the construction of a barrier at the U.S. Mexico border in the area that encompasses the southern terminus of the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail (CDT).
Under existing law, the Secretary of Homeland Security has the authority to waive certain laws, regulations, and legal requirements for purposes of border security. This authority includes the ability to waive the National Trails System Act, which establishes scenic, recreational, and natural standards for management of National Scenic Trails like the CDT.
This update addresses the following:
-
What is the status of access to the southern terminus and the shuttle?
-
What do you people traveling in the vicinity of the CDT southern terminus need to know or do?
Access and shuttle operations
The CDTC southern terminus shuttle is still in operation, and the southern terminus monument remains accessible through a permit process. CDTC will continue to operate within the constraints established with the creation of the National Defense Area (NDA) around the southern terminus in 2025. More information about the NDA
CDTC will continue to operate a shuttle with a drop-off location at Mengus Well, located approximately two miles from the US-Mexico border, outside of the NDA, as directed by the U.S. Army. Guidance from Ft. Huachuca about the NDA and the permit application can be found on the Ft. Huachuca website.
As part of the NDA permit process, applicants may also designate an escort who possesses the appropriate federal ID to accompany them through the NDA. CDTC encourages anyone who wishes to access the southern terminus segment of the CDT to apply—including international hikers. International visitors may be given access or may be required to secure an escort. CDTC is not able to coordinate or endorse the provision of an escort through the NDA.
Road conditions
The access road to the southern terminus—Commodore Road, a 26-mile dirt road connecting NM Highway 81 to the monument—has recently been graded in preparation for construction. Historically, this road has been passable primarily to specially outfitted, high-clearance off-road vehicles. While conditions have temporarily improved, the road remains susceptible to damage from flash flooding and poor drainage.
For those not using the CDTC shuttle, we continue to recommend a high-clearance vehicle with good off-road tires, as well as a backup plan in case conditions change unexpectedly.
Lodging and accommodations
CDTC has received reports that much of the temporary housing in Hidalgo County has been secured for contractors working on the southern barrier construction. As a result, accommodations in the area may be limited. We strongly encourage hikers and visitors to research lodging options and confirm reservations well in advance.
What CDTC is Doing
Due to the use of the special authority that established the NDA, a formal process to gather public comment on possible impacts resulting from the construction of barriers along the southern border was not conducted. However, CDTC has been working with Department of Defense officials at Fort Huachuca since the establishment of the NDA to continue to clarify access and impacts for CDT hikers and to convey important information. We are also working with elected officials, local communities, and the U.S. Border Patrol to understand the impacts that this will have on communities and visitors to the CDT.
This is a continually evolving situation, and CDTC will continue to advocate for access to public lands, the preservation of the character of the CDT, and the beneficial outdoor experiences offered throughout southern New Mexico and the Continental Divide. We encourage anyone with thoughts about these developments to share their concerns with their elected officials.
Contact information for elected officials from CDT states can be found here on our Action Center.
Share your Southern Terminus Experience
Help us advocate for the CDT! Let us know about your experience traveling through the National Defense Area or to the CDT southern terminus.