Destination
The Continental Divide Trail
Follow one of the West’s great long-distance trails through Montana and Idaho, where timbered mountains, trout streams, open meadows, rugged passes, wildlife habitat, and sweeping Big Sky views define the journey.
Region
Montana and Idaho, including the Lincoln Ranger District and Flesher Pass area
Best For
Hiking, backpacking, wildlife viewing, forest walks, scenic vistas, long-distance trail travel, and western mountain exploration
Nearby Highlights
Flesher Pass, Lincoln Ranger District, Douglas-fir forests, lodgepole pine, meadow hillsides, Continental Divide scenery, and backcountry camping areas
local charm
A legendary trail experience shaped by mountain forests, open meadows, wildlife, wind-swept ridgelines, and the rugged spirit of the American West
Tour Overview
A Legendary Western Trail Through Big Sky Country and Beyond
The Continental Divide Trail winds through some of the most dramatic terrain in Montana and Idaho, passing through timber-covered mountains, trout stream country, open meadows, rugged bluffs, canyon-carved landscapes, and wide western views.
In Montana, the CDT stretches for hundreds of miles before crossing into Idaho, giving hikers a deep look at the wild beauty of the Northern Rockies. The trail offers a mix of ecosystems, from dense Douglas-fir and lodgepole pine forests to open hillside meadows, ridgelines, and high-country landscapes.
One accessible section near the Lincoln Ranger District and Flesher Pass gives hikers a well-maintained route through forested terrain with occasional vistas. The trail begins near an information sign, briefly follows a road, then branches onto marked trail as it moves through changing canopy, meadow edges, and wildlife habitat.
Legendary Trail
The Continental Divide Trail is one of the great routes of the American West, crossing rugged mountain country and remote landscapes.
Forest & Meadow Hiking
Hikers move through Douglas-fir and lodgepole pine forests, open meadow hillsides, and shifting mountain terrain.
Wildlife Habitat
The trail corridor offers opportunities to see signs of wildlife, including elk, porcupines, birds, and other mountain species.
Flesher Pass Access
This popular section offers convenient trail access, parking, and a manageable entry point into the Continental Divide Trail experience.
Flesher Pass Trail Access
This portion of the CDT is popular because of its access from Flesher Pass, making it a strong option for visitors who want a shorter trail experience.
Lincoln Ranger District Scenery
The Lincoln Ranger District section offers forested hiking, occasional vistas, meadows, and a classic Montana mountain trail feel.
51-Mile Trail Segment
This section of the Continental Divide Trail stretches for 51 miles, offering possibilities for longer hiking, backpacking, and route planning.
Best Times to Visit
Summer
Hiking, backpacking, meadow scenery, warmer trail conditions, wildlife viewing, longer daylight, and access to higher sections as snow recedes.
Fall
Cooler hiking weather, golden meadows, quieter trails, crisp mountain air, wildlife movement, and beautiful forest color.
Winter
Snow-covered trail conditions, solitude, winter scenery, and backcountry travel best suited for experienced winter hikers or skiers.
Spring
Greening meadows, changing weather, lingering snow, early wildlife activity, muddy sections, and lower-elevation hiking opportunities.
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