If you’re planning to hike the Continental Divide Trail, understanding the permit requirements is essential before you start your journey. While there’s no single long-distance permit covering the entire 3,100-mile route from Mexico to Canada (unlike the PCT), you’ll need to secure four required permits for specific sections along the way.
For a complete CDT thru-hike, you must obtain a New Mexico State Trust Lands Recreational Access Permit, a Blackfeet Nation Fish & Wildlife Recreation Permit, and backcountry camping permits for both Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks. Additionally, several wilderness areas feature self-service permit kiosks where you’ll complete free applications on the trail.
Understanding CDT Permit Requirements
The CDT crosses five states and passes through numerous protected lands, each with its own regulations. While section hikers might avoid some of these areas, thru-hikers will travel directly through all four required permit zones. Planning ahead is critical because some permits cannot be obtained until you’re on the trail, requiring flexibility in your timeline.
Beyond the four main permits, you’ll encounter wilderness areas with free self-service permit stations. These are mandatory but can only be completed at kiosks along the trail, not in advance.
New Mexico State Trust Lands Recreational Access Permit
Cost: $35
Where to Apply: CDTC Permit Application
The CDT passes through approximately 70 miles of New Mexico State Trust Lands between the southern terminus at Crazy Cook Monument and Cumbres Pass. Any recreation on these lands requires a permit, which costs $35 per person.
The New Mexico State Land Office has authorized the Continental Divide Trail Coalition (CDTC) to issue these permits specifically for CDT hikers. You can apply through the CDTC website before your hike begins.
Critical restrictions: Camping and campfires are strictly prohibited on State Trust Lands. Plan your itinerary accordingly to camp on adjacent public lands when traveling through these sections.
Blackfeet Nation Fish & Wildlife Recreation Permit
Cost: Varies (typically around $10-20)
Valid: April 1 through March 31
Where to Apply: Blackfeet Fish & Wildlife Online Licensing
The CDT passes through the Blackfeet Reservation for several miles at the southern end of Glacier National Park. This permit is required for all non-tribal members recreating on Blackfeet land.
Purchase your permit online starting April 1st for the following year’s season. You’ll need one permit per person, and you must carry proof of purchase (physical or electronic) while on Blackfeet land. The permit doesn’t require specific dates, so as long as it’s valid during your travel through the reservation, you’re covered.
The online application process can be confusing. Navigate to “Online Licensing,” select “New License Registration,” fill out basic information (skip hunter/trapper sections if you’re only hiking), then select “Conservation/Recreation Permit.”
Yellowstone National Park Backcountry Permit
Cost: $5 per person per night + $10 reservation fee
Advance Reservations: Available through Recreation.gov
Walk-up Permits: Must be obtained within 48 hours of trip start
Contact: Central Backcountry Office at (307) 344-2160
Yellowstone requires a backcountry camping permit for all overnight stays. The park’s designated campsite system means you must stay in specific backcountry campsites, not dispersed locations.
For Northbound (NOBO) Hikers:
Most NOBOs will have only an approximate arrival date at Yellowstone, making advance reservations difficult. Your best options are calling the Central Backcountry Office at (307) 344-2160 within 48 hours of entry or obtaining a walk-up permit in person.
Permit Office Hours: June through August, permits are available seven days a week from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM at multiple ranger stations and visitor centers. Outside these months, contact the Central Backcountry Office for specific locations and hours.
For Southbound (SOBO) Hikers:
SOBOs have a significant advantage since they can more accurately predict their arrival dates and arrange permits in advance through Recreation.gov or by phone.
The early access lottery (opens March 1-20) allows you to compete for prime dates, with successful applicants receiving designated booking windows in April. General permits become available April 26 on a first-come, first-served basis.
Glacier National Park Backcountry Permit
Cost: $90 per permit + $10 per additional person (up to 4 people per permit)
Early Access Lottery: March 15 (applications accepted for one day only)
General On-Sale: Begins May 1
Contact: St. Mary Visitor Center, Two Medicine Ranger Station
Glacier presents the most complex permit situation for CDT thru-hikers. The park receives 3 million visitors annually but fewer than 500 are CDT hikers, meaning the system isn’t designed for your unpredictable timeline.
For Northbound (NOBO) Hikers:
You face the toughest challenge because you can’t predict exact arrival dates months in advance. Options include:
- Walk-up Permits: Arrive at Two Medicine Ranger Station (11 miles from East Glacier via trail) and request same-day or next-day permits. The Two Medicine Campground allows permit-free camping while you sort out your backcountry permit.
- Phone Permits: Call ahead once you have a clearer timeline, though availability may be limited.
- Alternative Routes: Consider hiking around Glacier via routes to the east or west if permits are unavailable. The park is gorgeous throughout, so alternative routes still offer incredible experiences.
For Southbound (SOBO) Hikers:
Life is easier. Start at the St. Mary Visitor Center in Glacier and secure your permit with known dates and itinerary. You can pre-plan your pace through the park.
Important Details:
- You must watch a 15-minute informational video (available online beforehand to save time)
- Up to four people can share a single permit, significantly reducing costs
- Permits must be picked up in person by 4:30 PM the day before or on your trip start date
- Many Glacier Ranger Station is closed for permits in 2025 due to utility work
- Prepare multiple itineraries in case your preferred campsites are full
- Be ready to hike shorter or longer days than planned based on campsite availability
Optional Permits: Rocky Mountain and Indian Peaks
Rocky Mountain National Park:
- Cost: $26 per person per night
- Hard-sided bear canisters required
- Many hikers “slack pack” the 25-mile section in one day to avoid camping
Indian Peaks Wilderness:
- The CDT enters this high-use wilderness in three areas
- Permits required for overnight camping
- You can avoid permits by camping between Lonesome Peak and Devil’s Thumb or after Rollins Pass
Self-Service Wilderness Permits
Throughout the CDT, you’ll encounter wilderness areas with self-service permit stations at trailheads. These permits are free and mandatory but can only be completed at the kiosks along the trail. Fill them out completely and honestly, as they help land managers track usage and maintain the trail.
Planning Timeline and Key Dates
Before Your Hike:
- Purchase New Mexico State Trust Lands permit ($35)
- Purchase Blackfeet Nation permit (available starting April 1)
Early Season (March-April):
- Enter Glacier early access lottery (March 15 only)
- Enter Yellowstone early access lottery (March 1-20)
During Your Hike:
- Obtain Yellowstone permit within 48 hours of entry
- Obtain Glacier permit via walk-up or based on your advance reservation
- Complete self-service permits at wilderness kiosks
Critical Reminders for Permit Compliance
The consequences of hiking without required permits are serious. You face potential fines, citations, and even jail time for trespassing or illegal camping in protected areas. Beyond legal issues, permits help protect fragile ecosystems and manage visitor impact.
Key points to remember:
- National Park permits are valid only for the specific dates and campsites listed on your permit
- State Trust Land permits prohibit camping entirely on those lands
- Self-service wilderness permits must be completed at trailheads, not skipped
- Carry all permits (physical or electronic) while in permit areas
- Plan flexibility into your schedule for obtaining walk-up permits
The CDT crosses vastly different terrain and jurisdictions, from desert state trust lands to alpine national parks. Understanding these permit requirements before you start ensures you’re prepared for the bureaucratic challenges alongside the physical ones. Take the time to secure permits properly, respect the regulations, and you’ll be rewarded with an unforgettable journey through some of America’s most spectacular wilderness.