Want to plan my first multi day trip, thinking Continental Divide NST

[kimbur96]

I want to plan and execute my first multi day trip this summer. I am thinking about the CDNST in RMNP. For one it's easy access to me. Just a 2.5 hour drive. It's a well developed loop with tons of trip reports, maps and supporting information. Summer Permits open up in March so I have time to plan and get my bid in by March.
The little that I have read so far is that bear canisters will be required. Thunderstorms in the afternoon so early starts with early stops to set up before the storms. I will be solo.

Anyone ever done this trail?

I am open to all suggestions and information regarding planing my first multi day trip.

 

[Venchka]

Call the Backcountry desk. Ask if they rent or provide bear cans for free.
That said, I jump started my backpacking outings last September after a many decades absence. I found a trip report online for the Three Forks area of the South San Juan WA upstream of the Platoro reservoir. I did a short 3 night loop that included about 6+ miles of the CDT. I went up the middle fork of the Conejos River. Going up the North Fork would add a few miles of CDT to the trip.
Added link.
http://www.ouachitamaps.com/SSJ Blue Lake.html
There is a similar loop in the Weminuche WA at the end of the Williams Creek Lake north of Pagosa Springs.
Both trailheads are at the end of well maintained gravel roads. 4WD not required. Zero permits required as well.
Good luck!
Wayne


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[Venchka]

If you don't have it already, download Guthook's CDT app and purchase the Colorado section.
Wayne


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[pstm13]

FYI: There are several full CDT maps for free that download easily to GPS apps.

http://continentaldividetrail.org/cdnst-interactive-map/

I think this link has it divided up so the Colorado section can be separated from other sections.