Leadore and the Salmon Valley: IDAHO’S GATEWAY TO THE CONTINENTAL DIVIDE TRAIL PART 2
Leadore and the Salmon Valley:
Idaho's Gateway to the Continental Divide Trail Part 2
For those with a passion for hiking and outdoor adventure, Leadore, Idaho, and the Salmon Valley deserve a spot on your must-visit list. Nestled in Lemhi County, this area offers access to one of North America’s premier long-distance trails: the Continental Divide Trail (CDT). Stretching over 3,100 miles from Mexico to Canada, the CDT follows the spine of the Rocky Mountains through the diverse terrains of New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana. It forms part of the prestigious “Triple Crown” of hiking, alongside the Appalachian and Pacific Crest Trails. Though the CDT is the longest of the trio, it’s also known for being the most rugged and, consequently, the least traversed.
The CDT attracts a diverse community of hikers, united by their love of adventure, nature, and personal challenge. While precise trail-user numbers are difficult to pin down, various estimates place the number of hikers who attempt an end-to-end trek, or “thru-hike,” between 150 and 400. To put that number into perspective, thru-hike attempts on the Pacific Crest Trail are estimated to be double that, and on the Appalachian Trail they number in the thousands. The CDT, with its wild and remote nature, offers a uniquely profound experience for those ready to embrace its challenges.
While some adventurers aim for the lifetime achievement of a thru-hike, section hikes offer a more accessible way to enjoy the Continental Divide Trail’s beauty and challenge. Leadore, Idaho, is the perfect basecamp for such treks and an essential resupply point for thru-hikers. In the heart of Leadore, the Stage Stop Junction Store welcomes trail users with a deli and small grocery store. The Stage Stop is located across the street from the post office, making it convenient for any thru-hiker supply drop-offs or pick-ups. For an overnight stay, check out the Homestead Hotel or the Mustang Inn. The Inn caters specifically to hikers with essential amenities like trail shuttles, mail and supply drops, laundry services, and valuable local trail knowledge to make any journey smoother.
For those with extra time to explore, the nearby town of Salmon, Idaho, serves as a hiker’s haven with a welcoming outdoor community. Stock up on trail snacks and fresh provisions at the Mountain Harvest Community Market, or swap trail stories over cold beer and a slice at Highlander Beer. Be sure to visit the Beaverhead Gear Exchange—which offers high-quality, gently used gear on consignment. Whether you need boots (the average thru-hiker wears out four to five pairs!), a forgotten raincoat, or gear for a surprise cold snap, this shop has you covered—affordable and sustainable, just the way outdoor gear should be.
Whether you choose a multi-day trek or a peaceful afternoon hike, the Salmon Valley is a superb starting point for exploring one of America’s most iconic trails. So, lace up your boots, pack your gear, and get ready to explore the grandeur of the Continental Divide Trail. Adventure awaits in this hidden gem of Idaho!
