Continental Divide Trail: Wyoming Section 9

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 9.

Wyoming Section 9 begins at Bison Basin Road where it follows the gravel road for a short distance before turning left onto the typical double track dirt road. You’ll then come to a large water cache. This cache is reportedly reliable, but it is wise to never fully count on any cache.

You’ll continue along through the typical Great Basin terrain. The next good water source is at Weasel Springs. Further on, Upper Morman Spring offers another good water source.

The CDT continues to follow dirt roads across the desolate basin. Along the way you’ll notice several markers that inform you where historic trails have passed through this area. These trails include the Oregon Trail, California Trail and Seminole Cutoff. It is amazing to think that you’re walking the same path as these pioneers did hundreds of years ago.

The CDT eventually joins a nice gravel road, the Riverview Cutoff. As you follow this road you’ll have good views toward the ever nearing Wind River Mountains in the distance. You’ll leave the road as you near the Sweetwater River and ultimately descend and walk next to the river. This is such an amazing sight for thru-hikers after having spent the last few days trudging through the dry basin.

Continue along until you hop back on a road and cross the river via bridge. This marks the end of Section 9.