The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail spans nearly 3,100 miles across 5 states from Mexico to Canada, traversing a vast array of different environments and landscapes along the way. The CDT can be completed as a single thru-hike that will take 4 to 6 months, or by section-hiking smaller segments. The Wyoming portion of the CDT features nearly 550 miles of incredibly diverse terrain. You’ll pass through the open desert plains of the Great Basin, the craggy ice carved peaks of the Wind River Range, and the steaming geysers and volcanic activity of Yellowstone National Park. In this guide we’ll take a closer look at Wyoming Section 11.
Wyoming Section 11 begins from the charming revitalized ghost town of South Pass City. From here you can take the interpretive trail then veer left to the CDT, ducking under a barded wire fence. The trail is cross country for this first stretch, but there are occasional markers to help guide the way.
You’ll eventually come to and follow a dirt road. This road soon crosses Highway 28. Many hikers will choose to hitch into the town of Lander from here to resupply and rest.
Continuing onward you’ll cross the highway and continue following dirt roads. There is ample tree cover for the first time since entering the Great Basin. You are now officially leaving the desert behind and entering the Wind Rivers!
Several nice creeks make for great water sources as you continue, followed by even bigger streams. The trail also turns to enjoyable singletrack. East Sweetwater River is big enough that you could even take a refreshing dip.
The terrain then opens up with lots of sagebrush vegetation. Continue along with some views of the mountains in the distance.
You’ll then have one last short but steep descent to Blair Creek at its confluence with the Sweetwater River. Section 11 then ends shortly thereafter near the Sweetwater Guard Station (there is also a BLM campground across the river).
Comments
Sign In and share them.