3100Miles
120–200Days
500,000 ftGain
ThruType
Permits
System
Local USFS/BLM/NPS permits per jurisdictionMost of the CDT passes through BLM and National Forest land requiring no permit. Wilderness areas within those require self-issued permits (free, sign the register). Glacier NP is the exception — competitive lottery. Wind River Range in Wyoming: heavily visited, no permit required but register at trailhead.Apply or read more
Cost
Mostly free. Glacier NP: $10/night.
Bear storage
Recommended in Wind Rivers and Glacier. Required in some zones.
Season
Best
NOBO: April–May from New Mexico. Colorado: avoid July–August lightning. Montana: July–September.
JFMAMJJASOND
PeakShoulderClosed
On trail
Water
Highly variable. New Mexico is dry — plan 20+ mile waterless sections. Colorado and Montana: abundant.
Resupply
Less infrastructure than PCT/AT. Many towns require a hitch. Ghost Ranch, Chama, Silverton, Dubois WY, Anaconda MT are key resupply points.
Notes
The CDT is the most remote and route-finding-intensive of the Triple Crown. Strong navigation skills required — Gaia GPS offline maps essential. Multiple alternate routes exist; most hikers take alternates around dangerous or scenic sections.
Elevation
5,500 ftHigh 14,000 ft
Resupply towns
Lordsburg NM
Chama NM
Silverton CO
Dubois WY
Lima MT
Anaconda MT
East Glacier MT
Recommended gear