Continental Divide

Along the spine of the Rocky Mountains, the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail stretches over 3,100 miles from the deserts of New Mexico to the rugged peaks of Montana. While the Pacific Crest Trail and Appalachian Trail may have greater name recognition, the Continental Divide Trail is considered by many to be the most challenging of the National Scenic Trails. When it was designated in 1978, many sections of the trail were inaccessible or fenced off, forcing hikers to navigate long detours and demanding terrain. Over the past 45 years, Trust for Public Land has been among the organizations working to open more of the trail to the public, making it safer and more navigable while preserving its wild and untamed spirit.

For Indigenous peoples, including the Zuni, Acoma, and Blackfeet Nations, these mountains are sacred. The Blackfeet call the Continental Divide “the backbone of the world,” a fitting description for a landscape that connects ecosystems, cultures, and communities. Despite its significance, many gaps in the trail corridor still exist and key lands in the trail’s viewshed remain vulnerable to development and habitat loss.

We’re collaborating with trail partners along the entire length of the Continental Divide to safeguard its vital landscapes—protecting clean water, preserving wildlife corridors, and ensuring equitable access to this iconic trail for generations to come. By conserving this national treasure, we honor its cultural heritage and preserve its unparalleled opportunities for exploration, reflection, and connection to nature.