Continental Divide Trail: MacDonald Pass to Priest Pass

Helena, Montana

5.0/5

based on 1 reviews

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Distance

10.8 miles

Elevation Gain

2500 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Chris Engelsman

Section hike a portion of the CDT only 25-minutes from Helena!

The CDT trail is a popular trail with thru-hikers, and is considered one of the three Crown Jewels. The Appalachian Trail and the Pacific Crest Trail being the other two.

This section of the Continental Divide Trail starts 25-minutes to the West of Helena just off Highway 12 at the CDNST Trailhead at MacDonald Pass. This section of trail heads north and consists of an access trail and double track for the first three miles. Then the trail gets a bit more difficult and is rated difficult - a T2 - Mountain Hiking rating.

The Continental Trail from MacDonald Pass to Priest Pass is 5.4 miles one way with approximately 2,500 feet of vertical elevation gain. It's a lightly used trail and is used mostly by hikers and mountain bikers.

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Camping

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Mountain Biking

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Hiking

Dog Friendly

Easy Parking

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Wildflowers

Continental Divide Trail: MacDonald Pass to Priest Pass Reviews

Kaitlyn S

Continental Divide Trail: MacDonald Pass to Priest Pass

10/10/20

Fine

5.0

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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Continental Divide Trail: MacDonald Pass to Priest Pass

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Continental Divide Trail: MacDonald Pass to Priest Pass Reviews

Leave No Trace

Nearby

Prospect Shaft Trail

1906 Trail

Rodney Ridge Trail

Mount Ascension

Rock Climb and Explore Hellgate Gulch

Four Wheel Drive and then Hike to Historic Mann Gulch

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