Sierra Madre Range Continental Divide Trail
Continental Divide high country challenge
The Continental Divide snakes through Wyoming’s Sierra Madre Range on a network of old mining roads and two-tracks that’ll test both your rig and your navigation skills. This route follows Forest Roads 550 and 801 as they weave between Battle Pass and Bridger Peak, crossing the actual Continental Divide multiple times at elevations pushing 10,000 feet. You’ll navigate through stands of aspen and spruce, past remnants of old mining operations, and across exposed alpine terrain where weather can turn violent without warning.
This is difficult terrain requiring high-clearance 4WD with good tires and recovery gear. Snow blocks access from October through June, making July through September your only realistic window. Carry extra fuel, water, and emergency supplies — cell service is nonexistent and you’re hours from help. The payoff is solitude in country most folks never see, with views stretching across three states and camping spots that’ll make you forget civilization exists.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Difficult |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Backcountry |
| Surface | Dirt |
| Features | Camping, High Altitude, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 35 mi / 56.3 km |
| Duration | 2-3 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 9800 ft |
| Best season | July-September |
| Minimum vehicle | 4WD high-clearance |
| Nearest town | Saratoga, Wyoming |
| Land manager | Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
What kind of clearance do I need for this trail?
You need a high-clearance 4WD vehicle minimum. Stock trucks and SUVs with decent approach/departure angles can handle most sections, but there are rocky climbs and off-camber spots that will test your limits at 35+ miles.
Can I run this trail in early summer or late fall?
July through September only. Snow can linger into June at 9800+ feet, and early storms can shut down access by October. Even in peak season, afternoon thunderstorms are common above treeline.
Do I need permits to camp along the Continental Divide Trail?
No permits required for dispersed camping in Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest. Follow Leave No Trace principles and camp 200+ feet from water sources and trails.
What's the gnarliest part of this route?
The rocky climbs near peak elevation around mile 20-25 get steep and loose with significant exposure. Take your time on the off-camber sections - it's a long way down and no cell service for recovery.
How many water crossings should I expect?
Multiple creek crossings throughout, mostly seasonal runoff that's deeper in early season. None are typically axle-deep by August, but scout them first since snowmelt can change conditions quickly.