Hey folks, I’m a 2024 prospective thru-hiker gearing up for the Continental Divide Trail. Just snagged the Far Out guide on sale, and I’m already doing some early planning for good spots for my SO to join me along the trail.
Looking for 1 or 2 prime locations where he can meet me with our van for a night in a town or hotel. A slackpack or trail magic-friendly spot would be awesome, though not mandatory.
Quick note: We’ve been on a thru-hike together before, so we’re well aware of the logistical challenges. Appreciate the concern, but no need for a lecture!
Share your experiences – where did your SO meet you? 🙂
Here are some recommendations from the community:
- Rawlins, WY: Positioned in the middle of a mentally taxing section, easily accessible from the freeway, and great for slackpacking on both sides of town.
- Glacier National Park: Ideal for a joint visit with your SO, offering transportation to starting or ending locations, saving money, but be cautious of permit-required mileage.
- Benchmark Wilderness Ranch (near Augusta): Drive to Augusta, spend the night in a hotel, and break up the longest resupply. Note that getting to Augusta can be a bit challenging.
- Missoula, MT: An awesome place with several access points within a 1.5-2 hour drive from the trail, like Rogers Pass or Chief Joseph Pass.
- Lima, MT: Challenging hitch, but driving to Dillon, MT for more supplies and cuisine is an option.
- Pagosa Springs, CO: A cool town with some sprawl, and a great spot to visit.
- Ghost Ranch (Santa Fe): Drive 1hr 10min to Santa Fe, but be mindful of limited bus options.
- Crazy Cook: Depending on factors like time of year and weather, a van meetup here could be convenient and save on shuttle fees.
- Pinedale, WY: A suggested spot with beautiful scenery at Green River Lakes. Getting there without adding extra trail miles can be challenging, making it a great pickup location.
- Leadville, CO: A potential stop for matching mellies.
- Lander, WY: A lovely town with convenient van camping in the town park.
- Anaconda, MT: While a cool town, it might not be the most ideal for meeting up due to its layout.
- Darby, MT: Filled with cowboys, motorcyclists, and hikers during the bubble. Consider having a van for easy exploration of the greater Yellowstone area.
- Reserve, NM: A tough hitch but a decent town with motels, breaking up a long resupply if you hike the Gila.
- Yellowstone Area: Having a van in this region allows you to visit other areas of the park and the Tetons.
Thanks for the suggestions! Is there a resource where people have marked places on the route that are hard to reach without hitching? I’m planning to hike the CDT one day and curious if such a resource exists.
