Continental Divide Trail: Wyoming Section 2

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 2.

Wyoming Section 2 begins from Highway 70 and Battle Pass. Here hikers can hitch into the small town of Encampment to resupply if needed.

The trail follows the highway for about half a mile, then turns right onto a gravel road. You’ll ascend a small hill then continue walking trough some enjoyable, forested terrain. You’ll then descend to a 4x4 road, which the CDT then follows for quite a while.

The trail ascends up to the top of Bridger Peak where there is a radio tower, as well as stellar views. Descend and continue following the gravel 4x4 road until the CDT finally leaves it for singletrack trail. This turn is easy to miss however, so keep an eye open for it. There is a great stream to fill up on water a ways after the junction.

The trail will then leave the forest and follow a ridge up and over some small peaks with great views. The trail then enters a logged out area. As you continue there are more great views. The scenery will begin to change as you work your way down toward the basin. The trail descends and passes one last water source (be sure to fill up!).

You’ll descend down to Sage Creek Road where the terrain is a drastically different from earlier in the day. You are now in the Great Basin. This marks the end of Wyoming Section 2.