The final twenty miles included climbing up on several mesas made of different types of rock and all with amazing views including the last night’s sunset show.
Read MoreCDT
The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail (CDT) is much more than just a line on a map: it is a living museum of the American West, a 3,000+ mile trail along the Rocky Mountains through Montana, Wyoming, Colorado and New Mexico.
CDT: Ojo Frio to Deadman Peaks, New Mexico
This is one of the most interesting and varied sections with whimsical hoodoos, massive dry washes, views for miles from ridges and two good water sources.
Read MoreCDT: Los Indios to Ojo Frio, New Mexico
The trail winds through pinyon before a steep decent to desert, dotted with enormous volcanic vents and mesas.
Read MoreCDT: Ranger Tank to Los Indios, New Mexico
The trail continues on dusty road through wheatgrass and pinyon ending at a stunning canyon, golden in Autumn colors with a piped spring.
Read MoreCDT: Mount Taylor to Ranger Tank, New Mexico
After Mount Taylor, there’s a 24-mile dry stretch. I watch the eclipse from a mountain with an Hispanic rancher.
Read MoreCDT: Grants to Mount Taylor, New Mexico
The start of the trail from desert is steep, but then levels off into ponderosa pine and aspen before beginning the ascent of 11,000-foot Mount Taylor.
Read MorePre-hike: Albuquerque
Before hiking a CDT section, I visit Albuquerque for the Balloon Fiesta, Old Town, and to see old friends.
Read MoreMeet “The Old Lady on the Trail”
My heroine is 81-year old Mary Davison who called herself “The Old Lady on the Trail.”
Read MorePfiffner Traverse, CO (part I)
Paralleling the Continental Divide Trail, this high route traverses steep passes in Colorado’s Front Range.
Read MoreWRHR, day 7, Shadow Lake to Big Sandy Campground: 15 miles
The final day takes us over Texas Pass into the astounding Cirque of the Towers.
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