Sometimes referred to as a wilderness route rather than a national trail, the Great Divide Trail runs across the wildest part of the Canadian Rockies. If you venture to hike this trail, you will be exposed to glacial streams, grizzly bears, summer snowstorms, mosquitoes, no cell phone reception, difficult mountain navigation, scarce campsites, and a very short hiking season that only begins in July and is over by mid-September. Although it sounds quite challenging and a bit daunting, the hike promises to be rather rewarding.
The starting point is located in Waterton Lakes National Park which is close to the Canada-US border and continue 1,125 kilometres to the north ending in Kakwa Provincial Park. The trail follows the continental border between two of Canada's provinces—Alberta and British Columbia. To be more precise, it crosses the division line at around 30 points which leads to 65% of the trail being found in Alberta, and the remaining 35% in B.C. Among the highlights of the Great Divide Trail are five national parks, including Waterton Lakes, Kootenay, Banff, Jasper, and Yoho. You will also cross eight provincial parks, three Wildland provincial parks, two wilderness areas, two special management areas, and five forest districts. The highest point of the route is 2,590 m near Michele Lakes, south of the White Goat Wilderness Area, and the lowest area lies at 1,055 m at Old Fort Point trailhead, which is near Jasper.
One of the world's most challenging and yet most scenic trails is still not officially recognized, which is probably why it is neither properly marked nor equipped with campsites and the necessary staff. Today, the GDT is being promoted and protected by the Great Divide Trail Association which was founded in 1975. The first record of the trail itself dates back to 1966 when it was proposed by the Girl Guides of Canada. The first GDT guide appeared a few years later—in 1970, and the construction of the trail began only in 1976 led by six students with funds provided by the Opportunities for Youth program.
Thousands cross the Great Divide Trail partially, with much fewer managing to hike the entire route. One of the most common reasons is the short season—you could start the hike in late June at best and finish by mid-September. Two months and a half seems very short for 1,125 kilometres.
Practical info
What are some of the obstacles that hikers face on the Great Divide Trail?
Hiking the Great Divide Trail in Alberta is challenging due to several factors such as the need for good navigation skills, bears, summer snowstorms, biting insects and scarce campsites. The trail is not marked properly and hikers need experience hiking similar routes. Services like cell phone signal and park staff are also difficult to find, so hikers should carry appropriate gear to ensure safety and comfort. Show more
What is the route of the Great Divide Trail?
The Great Divide Trail is a 1,125-kilometer trek that runs from Waterton Lakes National Park, across the border of Canada and the US to Kakwa Provincial Park in Alberta, Canada. The trail follows the boundary between Alberta and British Columbia, crossing it around 30 times. About 35% of the trail is in British Columbia, and 65% in Alberta. Hikers will see a variety of terrain, including mountains, waterfalls and valleys. Show more
What is the best time of year to hike the Great Divide Trail in Alberta?
Hiking the Great Divide Trail in Alberta is best between July and mid-September when the weather is mild with less chance of natural hazards, such as snowstorms and flooding. There is a narrow window of about two and a half months when hikers can take advantage of the best weather conditions. Those planning to undertake the journey should also prepare themselves with sufficient gear, provisions and resources to tackle the challenges that can come up at any point in the trek. Show more
How long does it usually take to complete the Great Divide Trail?
The Great Divide Trail is a difficult 1125 kilometer trek that takes around two and a half months, depending on experience level, condition, gear and other factors. Given that the trail is not well-marked or maintained, hikers will need to navigate on their own, which takes more time. Hikers who encounter unexpected situations or hazards along the way, like harsh weather or injuries, may take longer to complete the trek than less experienced hikers who are in great shape. Show more
Who is responsible for the preservation and management of the Great Divide Trail?
The Great Divide Trail Association (GDTA) is responsible for managing and preserving the Great Divide Trail. It is an unofficial trail that lacks proper facilities and resources. However, GDTA, established in 1975, provides maps and a guidebook to help hikers navigate the trail. Its volunteers are a vital resource for hikers who may require help or information. Without the GDTA's hard work, the trail would be less accessible to hikers and its beauty would not be so well-preserved. Show more
