Furthermore,

CDT Segment 01, Section 1: Canadian Border to East Glacier Park

From the beginning of the Continental Divide Trail (CDT) Segment 01, hikers face a crucial decision about their route. The Designated Route officially starts at Waterton Lake National Park in Canada, crossing the border at Boundary Warden Cabin. However, this choice requires arranging customs for re-entry into the United States, which can complicate planning.

Alternative CDT Segment 01 Starting Points

To address this challenge, hikers have two alternative starting points to consider. First, they can begin on the west side of Glacier National Park by following the Boundary Trail to Boundary Warden Cabin. This option not only eliminates the need for customs arrangements but also offers breathtaking views along the way. Alternatively, they can opt to start at Chief Mountain Customs, which completely bypasses the customs process altogether and ensures a smoother transition into the journey.

CDT Color-coded system

The CDT map simplifies route planning with its color-coded system. The Designated Route appears in Magenta , while preferred Alternate Routes are highlighted in Blue . Other Alternate or Connector Routes are marked in Yellow  For those needing to resupply, Trails to Towns (T2T) are clearly indicated in Green .

Each route offers unique challenges and rewards; therefore, the ultimate decision rests with individual hikers. Whether they choose the official starting point or an alternate route, the CDT consistently delivers an unforgettable experience from the very first step.

Route Highlights:

Waterton Lake to Many Glacier

Boundary Warden Cabin, Stoney Indian Pass Trail Jct., Waterton Valley Trail, Fifty Mountain Camp, Highline Trail, Swiftcurrent Pass, Many Glacier.

Chief Mountain Customs to Many Glacier

Chief Mountain Customs, Belly River Trail, Elizabeth Lake, Redgap Pass, Swiftcurrent Ridge Lake, Many Glacier.

Connector between Waterton and Chief Mountain Routes

Trail Jct x48.9-113.9, Stoney Indian Pass, x48.9-113.7 Jct.

Many Glacier to Going to the Sun Road

Many Glacier, Piegan Pass Trail, Piegan Pass, Going-to-the-Sun Road

Going to the Sun Road to Pitamakan Pass (Dawson Pass Trail Jct.)

Deadwood Falls, Virginia Falls, Saint Mary Lake Trail, Red Eagle Lake, Triple Divide Pass, Atlantic Falls, Morning Star Lake, Pitamakan Pass

Pitamakan Pass to Two Medicine Lake

Follow the Pitamakan Pass Trail

Pitamakan Pass to Two Medicine Lake

Cut Bank Pass, Dawson Pass, Dawson Pass Trail, Two Medicine Lake

Two Medicine Lake to East Glacier Park

Appistoki Falls, Scenic Point, Bald Hill, Midvale Creek, East Glacier Park.

Waypoints, Mileage and Elevation Gain & Loss for CDT Segment 01

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