Map The CDT With Backpacker Mag

Posted by Jeff Wetherington Mar 2, 2007

The Continental Divide Trail, at approximately 3,100 miles long and stretching from Canada to Mexico through the United States, is the most rugged long-distance National Scenic Trail in the country. On average, only 2 dozen hikers each year attempt to hike the entire trail which averages approximately 6 months to complete. The Trail crosses through five western states; Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, Colorado and New Mexico and as many ecological, topographical and climatic varieties.

In the February 2007 issue of Backpacker Magazine, Editor-in-Chief Jonathan Dorn writes in his Editor's Notes column that the CDT lacks one important feature of a long-distance hiking trail; an official map. In fact, more than one third of the CDT remains unsigned, undetermined and unmapped. Some portions that ARE mapped, are confusing in their directions and the presence of multiple trails running from one point to another.

And that's where YOU can help.

Dorn states, "We want to put readers on the CDT this summer and get as much of the trail mapped as possible...The goal is a Forest Service-approved map that eliminates route confusion and gives hikers a definitive document for trip planning. It's a unique opportunity to make hiking history."

Indeed, it is. Imagine being able to tell your grandchildren one day that YOU helped to map the Continental Divide Trail in 2007! Jeff, you ask, how can I get on one of these mapping teams? I'm glad you asked.

"Over the next few months", Dorn reveals, "We'll pick about 200 applicants to join Backpacker editors and CDTA volunteers for a week of hiking and mapping. We'll split you into teams, provide GPS units and training, load you up with free gear, and assign your team a specific section of the trail."

Here's how to apply: go to backpacker.com/cdtmap and fill out the questionnaire no later than March 30, 2007. Winners will be notified by May 1st. Maybe we'll see each other on the Continental Divide trail this Summer!