Continental Divide Trail: Montana-Idaho Section 24

The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail spans nearly 3,100 miles across 5 states from Mexico to Canada, traversing a vast array of different environments and landscapes along the way. The CDT can be completed as a single thru-hike that will take 4 to 6 months, or by section-hiking smaller segments. The Montana-Idaho portion of the CDT features nearly 1,000 miles of diverse mountain terrain. You'll pass alongside the lofty peaks of the Anaconda, Bitterroot and Beaverhead Mountains; walk through the rugged and remote Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex; and finally arrive at the "Crown of the Continent" that is Glacier National Park. In this guide we'll take a closer look at Montana-Idaho Section 24.Section 24 is a big one for northbound thru hikers. You'll enter the infamous Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex ("The Bob") and stay in it for days.The section begins near the end of Benchmark Road. Many hikers will catch a shuttle to Augusta to resupply, or will have sent a box to the Benchmark Wilderness Ranch. It's a long carry from here until East Glacier.You'll begin on well traveled trails, soon crossing the West Fork Sun River on a sturdy wooden footbridge. The trail continues to follow the Sun River for quite a ways. Eventually you'll leave the river behind and have a big climb to what is undoubtedly the highlight of The Bob - The Chinese Wall.The Chinese Wall is a long, impressive escarpment that CDT hikers get to walk beside for many miles. You'll leave the wall near Larch Hill Pass. Shortly thereafter is where the Spotted Bear Alternate splits from the official CDT. Many hikers will choose to take this scenic and shorter alternate.If you choose to stay on the CDT, continue north until the Spotted Bear Alternate rejoins at Strawberry Creek. The CDT then follows near, but not always in sight of Strawberry Creek. Unfortunately most of this area has burned and isn't the most scenic terrain. Continue along Strawberry Creek until reaching Badger Pass, the end of Section 24.