The Continental Divide Trail is at Risk, Here’s How You Can Help

In no uncertain terms, long distance backpacking is on the rise.  With the impending release of a pair of major motion pictures (Wild and A Walk in the Woods) centered around the United States two most popular long trails, the term “thru-hike” is about join the national lexicon.

Of the country’s three long trails- the Appalachian Trail (AT), Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), and Continental Divide Trail (CDT), the CDT is the only that remains unfinished.  The Continental Divide Trail Coalition (CDTC) states that, “the CDT is falling through the cracks, and is facing great difficulties…it is vulnerable to interests incompatible with the vision of the Trail as a remote back-country primitive experience“.  

In other words, we run the very real risk of losing an essential piece of our beloved Triple Crown.  This is bad news for hikers, outdoor enthusiasts, and especially long distance backpackers.  As the number of people who hit the trail continues to rise, so too will the need for greener pastures.

THE GOOD NEWS: WE CAN SAVE THE CDT

The CDTC has created a fundraiser in an effort to construct the next 32-mile section of the Trail.   The money will go toward constructing this next section of the trail (requiring more than 470 volunteer days), new trailheads, employing local businesses, engaging local youth in stewardship, and more.  Learn more about this very important project and consider lending some support below.