Towns and counties that self-select to be designated as official CDT Gateway Communities are friendly to trail users and dedicated to the completion and protection of the trail. CDTC partners with Gateway Communities to give visitors a great experience and to continue our work completing, promoting, and protecting the Continental Divide Trail. These communities then receive help and resources from CDTC to showcase all that their town has to offer visitors! From the high desert of New Mexico to the snowcapped mountains of Montana and everywhere in between, CDT Gateway Communities span the length of the trail. There’s always a new adventure just around the corner!
Some popular locations
See below for just some of the many great locations along the trail.
Take a Ride on a River in Salida
Experience the whitewater rapids of the Arkansas River in Salida. Whether you’re an experienced outdoorsperson or looking for something new, there’s an adventure for everyone who wants to enjoy the river.
Explore the Mountains in Leadville
At the highest elevation of any incorporated town in the country at 10,151 feet, Leadville offers a unique experience for anyone looking to explore the Rocky Mountains, on foot, on horseback, or some other way!
Visit El Malpais National Monument in Grants
Located just outside Grants, NM, El Malpais offers a diverse volcanic landscape. Explore lava tube caves and learn about volcanic eruptions from millions of years ago, then stop in town to learn about more recent history.
Visit Smoke Stack State Park in Anaconda
Anaconda has a long history of copper smelting and is home to one of the world’s tallest free standing brick structures — taller than the Washington Monument!
Find out What’s Happening This Month in CDT Gateway Communities
Curious to see what events are taking place this month? Use the link below to find our events calendar.
Is your Community Interested in Being Designated?
The CDTC promotes Gateway Communities as welcoming destinations for people from around the world looking to experience the CDT; in turn, Gateway Communities provide resources and outdoor recreation access for visitors and locals alike.
Looking to Connect with the CDT?
Our Gateway Community Ambassador program empowers Ambassadors to become outdoor leaders in their communities.
CDTC Adopters help us meet the ongoing monitoring and maintenance needs of the CDT by taking responsibility for their own “adopted” section of the trail. No trail maintenance experience is necessary.
