Continental Divide Trail: Wyoming Section 15

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 15.

Wyoming Section 15 begins from Summit Lake. You’ll begin descending shortly thereafter. The trail then enters the forest and is an enjoyable walk through the woods, a pleasant change from the high alpine of earlier. You’ll descend some mellow switchbacks to the valley floor where you’ll get your first glimpses of the Green River.

The trail is very flat and easy hiking from this point onward. Scenic views abound of the towering Wind River Peaks that rise up on both sides of the valley. You’ll continue following the Green River downstream. As you continue you’ll see iconic Squaretop Mountain. This stunning and easily recognizable peak dominates the landscape (although you will be walking away from it, so be sure to look behind you every now and then!).

The trail passes the large Green River Lakes, then ascends slightly. After crossing the Roaring Fork watch for an easy to miss turn to the left. You’ll then ascend more steadily until you top out at Gunsight Pass.

From the pass you’ll descend, watching again for some easy to miss trail junctions. The terrain begins to change into flat, cow pasture land. You’ll walk beside a cute, small pond then continue through open pasture land. Section 15 then ends at Union Pass Road.