Continental Divide On Us Map
If you’re planning a trip to the United States, make sure to include the Continental Divide on your itinerary. This scenic route runs from the Canadian border to the Mexican border, and it’s a great way to explore the country’s diverse landscapes and cultures. Here’s a comprehensive travel guide that covers everything you need to know about the Continental Divide.
Top Attractions
The Continental Divide is home to some of the most beautiful national parks in the country, including Rocky Mountain National Park, Yellowstone National Park, and Glacier National Park. These parks offer stunning views of the rugged mountains, sparkling lakes, and abundant wildlife. Other popular attractions along the route include the Grand Tetons, the Black Hills, and the Rio Grande Gorge.
Hidden Gems
If you’re looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences, consider visiting some of the lesser-known destinations along the Continental Divide. These include the ghost town of Virginia City, Montana, the hot springs of Thermopolis, Wyoming, and the charming town of Silverton, Colorado.
Food Scene
The Continental Divide is known for its hearty, Western-style cuisine. You’ll find plenty of steakhouses, BBQ joints, and diners along the route, as well as local specialties like bison burgers, trout, and huckleberry pie. Don’t miss the chance to sample the craft beer and wine from the region, too.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling the Continental Divide on a budget is definitely possible. Consider camping instead of staying in hotels, packing your own food for picnics, and taking advantage of free activities like hiking and wildlife viewing. You can also save money by visiting in the shoulder seasons, when the crowds are smaller and the prices are lower.
Outdoor Adventures
If you love the great outdoors, you’ll find plenty to do along the Continental Divide. Hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing are popular activities in the national parks, while skiing and snowboarding are popular in the winter months. You can also try your hand at whitewater rafting, horseback riding, or mountain biking.
Historical Landmarks
The Continental Divide has a rich history, and there are plenty of landmarks and museums to explore along the route. Some of the most notable include the Little Bighorn Battlefield, where General Custer and his troops were defeated by the Sioux and Cheyenne in 1876, and the Mesa Verde National Park, which contains the ruins of ancient Puebloan cliff dwellings.
Family-Friendly Activities
The Continental Divide is a great destination for families with kids. In addition to the national parks, there are plenty of other family-friendly activities to enjoy, such as visiting the local zoos and aquariums, riding the historic steam trains, and exploring the interactive science museums.
Natural Wonders
The Continental Divide is home to some of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders in the world. From the towering peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the geysers of Yellowstone, there’s no shortage of stunning landscapes to admire. Other natural wonders along the route include the Great Sand Dunes National Park, the Grand Canyon, and the Painted Desert.
Vibrant Nightlife
While the Continental Divide is primarily a destination for outdoor enthusiasts, there are still plenty of opportunities to enjoy the nightlife. The larger cities along the route, such as Denver and Albuquerque, have a bustling bar and restaurant scene, while the smaller towns often host live music and cultural events.
Local Markets
If you’re looking for souvenirs or locally-made products, be sure to check out the local markets along the Continental Divide. These markets feature everything from handmade crafts and jewelry to fresh produce and baked goods. Some of the most popular markets include the Santa Fe Farmers Market and the Boulder Farmers Market.
Beaches and Mountains
The Continental Divide may not have any beaches, but it does have plenty of stunning mountain vistas. From the rugged peaks of the Rockies to the rolling hills of the Black Hills, there’s no shortage of scenic drives and hiking trails to explore. You can also visit the Great Salt Lake in Utah for a unique beach experience.
Cultural Immersion
The Continental Divide is a melting pot of cultures, and there are plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the local traditions and customs. From attending a Native American powwow to visiting a Spanish colonial mission, there’s something for everyone.
Art and Music Scene
The Continental Divide has a thriving arts and music scene, with many galleries, museums, and performance venues to explore. Some of the most notable include the Denver Art Museum, the Taos Art Museum, and the Santa Fe Opera. You can also attend a bluegrass festival or a jazz concert along the route.
Walking Tours
If you prefer to explore on foot, there are plenty of walking tours available along the Continental Divide. These tours offer a guided look at the local history, architecture, and culture. Some of the most popular walking tours include the Denver Ghost Tour, the Santa Fe Art Walk, and the Albuquerque Old Town Walking Tour.
Architectural Marvels
The Continental Divide is home to many architectural marvels, from the ancient cliff dwellings of the Puebloans to the modern skyscrapers of Denver and Salt Lake City. Be sure to check out the historic adobe buildings in Santa Fe, the art deco buildings in Cody, Wyoming, and the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed buildings in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Historical Sites
Finally, the Continental Divide has a rich historical legacy, and there are plenty of sites to explore along the route. From the Lewis and Clark Trail to the Oregon Trail, you can follow in the footsteps of the pioneers who helped shape the country. Other notable historical sites include the San Juan Mission in New Mexico and the Fort Laramie National Historic Site in Wyoming.
With so much to see and do along the Continental Divide, it’s no wonder that it’s one of the most popular road trip destinations in the country. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or foodie, you’re sure to find something to love along this scenic route.