28th September
19.8 miles
Many Glacier (2639) to Fifty Mountain camp (2658.8)
For the first time in many days we set off with full bellies. Thanks to the nearby hikers who fed us the night before. It wasn’t long before some trail crew overtook us. We caught them at the first bridge. It’s time to pull down the bridges for the end of hiking season. We made it across just in time.
It was a long slow climb to the top of Swiftcurrent Pass. On route we spied two moose at the head of the valley. They seemed content eating the last of the late season food.
On the other side of the pass we could see the Going to the sun road off in the distance. A nearby chalet with expansive views was just off the trail, as was the popular side trail that takes hikers to a fire tower lookout. Our energy levels or lack of energy levels stopped us was taking these detours. Maybe we just really want to get to Canada.
The trail followed the contour lines round the edge of the continental divide. The distant mountains are unlike any other in this hike. Some are sharp spires, some glaciated and some still have a coverage of last seasons snows. Glacier National Park is one of my favourite places so far. If anyone is interested in hiking, then put Glacier National Park on your hiking bucket list.
We lingered on a mountain pass to watch the sun set over hundreds of mountain peaks. I think I can see Canada. It was also one of the nicest sunsets for many weeks. But lingering to watch the sunset meant arriving in camp when it was dark, not ideal. A strong gust of wind blew my sunglasses off the top of my head. They careened down a steep slope. Too steep for me to chase after them.
The campsite was full of people and tents, maybe 10 tents, we were surprised to see so many people. Tomorrow my journey on the CDT will come to an end.
Next – Day 164 I Just Hiked From Mexico to Canada on the CDT
Everything you need to know about hiking the CDT:
Complete Guide to Hiking the Continental Divide Trail
CDT Resupply Guide
CDT Gear List
Congratulations on reaching the end of your journey! This one was challenging, wasn’t it? I enjoyed reading all of your CDT posts just as much as I loved reading about your PCT hike and cycling in Mexico. Can’t wait to read about your adventures on the AT next summer! Following your blog has made me realize I need to just get out there and do it, so I’m looking forward to a week of backpacking in the Pecos Wilderness in NM in June, a week in the Sierras in July, and then the full JMT in the summer of 2018. Congratulations, again!
Thanks Heather, glad that you are getting out to explore by foot. I’m sure you will enjoy the hiking.
Congratulations on accomplishing your journey. As they say, it is not the destination, but the journey. I will really miss your posts, as I have been following you on the Pacific Crest, Into Mexico, and now the CDT. I am Thankful for your safe journey and I feel privileged to have followed your postings here. Bob Palm Springs, CA / Tucson AZ
Thanks Bob, I’ll still be continuing my journey for a few more years yet, no end in sight
Way to push through and overcome all the snow, cold days and nights, and physical ailments! Thank you for sharing the journey with us. Now I can’t wait for my 2017 PCT thru-hike attempt.
Thanks Owen, good luck in the PCT, it is an amazing trail, I loved my hike there last year
Well here we are at the end of the trail, what fun. Excited you made the journey and your freedom to share it with so many.
Thanks Margaret
What a fantastic adventure. Thank you for sharing it. A big congratulations. Last post tomorrow.
Thanks Phil
Congratulations for yet another awesome adventure! I’ve enjoyed reading the ups and downs of your trip. What’s next? I’m thinking about doing the CDT bike route but I don’t think it follows the exact same route and I guess I have to add a suspension fork to my steel framed donkey.
Thanks Murat, I’m heading beck to Mexico ti cycle then back ti hike the Appalachian Trail next summer.
You could cycle the Great Divide Mountain Bike Trail in your bike, maybe lighten the load a little, it’s not so far between resupplies. You could fit suspension forks if you wanted but you will still make it without them, good luck.