Continental Divide Trail: Wyoming Section 8

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 8.

Wyoming Section 8 begins at Bairoil Road (CR 22). Just to the right is the amazing A&M Reservoir, a surprising oasis in the middle of the basin. Continuing along you’ll follow the dirt road as it begins to parallel some power lines. There is also another good water source soon, an electric well that flows into a large tire.

The official CDT will then veer to the right but it makes since to just follow the road as it will rejoin the trail further up. You’ll then want to watch for a slight turn to the left, it’s easy to miss and continue straight. Follow this new road to the left, through some very sandy terrain. In areas there is a bit of a singletrack footpath to the side of the road that avoids the deep sand.

Continue along until you come to another good water source, a piped spring. The trail then ascends a bit with another easy to miss right turn toward the top. You’ll then come to and cross Crooks Gap Rd. The trail begins to head into the hill after this. There are even trees that you’ll begin to see!

Continue heading up the valley, and eventually come to a fenced in area that features a small, unreliable spring. Soon you’ll make a right turn and have a steady climb up the hill. This is the biggest climb since entering the basin. There are some great shade trees along here, enjoy!

From the top of the ridge you’ll have great views. The trail then heads west skirting the ridge. Another water source awaits (two cow ponds). The trail continues along with some enjoyable hiking along hilltops with great views.

There is another cow pond just before Bison Basin Road which marks the end of Section 8.