Document Type

Report

Publication Date

5-2026

Disciplines

Agricultural and Resource Economics | Leisure Studies | Nature and Society Relations | Other Social and Behavioral Sciences | Regional Economics

Abstract

As outdoor recreation participation has steadily increased nationwide over the past decade, reaching record levels in 2024 amid long‑term growth trends (OIA, 2025), the Continental Divide Trail (CDT) is drawing rising numbers of hikers traveling through Montana’s gateway communities. Yet little is known about who these hikers are or how their presence affects the towns that support them. This report examines CDT hikers and their relationships with Montana gateway communities from two complementary perspectives. First, understanding hikers’ demographics, spending patterns, and trail behaviors using data from 507 respondents who completed Montana’s CDT sections between 2022 and 2024. Second, exploring how local businesses and community stakeholders experience visitation from these hikers through interviews and surveys across eight rural communities.

Key findings reveal that CDT hikers are highly educated, experienced recreationists (93% had completed a thru-hike) who spend an average of $2,763 during their Montana journey, with over one-third being international visitors connecting rural Montana to a global recreation market. Community perspectives show that businesses and stakeholders generally view CDT hikers favorably, appreciating the slower-paced, respectful nature of trail tourism compared to other visitor types, though some concerns exist around specific hiker behaviors and seasonal business impacts. This research provides Montana gateway communities with information to make informed decisions about engaging with trail tourism, helping communities leverage economic opportunities while supporting sustainable recreation development.

Keywords

CDT, Continental Divide Trail, Hiking

Rights

© 2026 ITRR

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