The start of the Continental Divide Trail (CDT) does to hikers whatever you would consider the opposite of “ease them into the hike” (that's right, it fucks them in the back of a Volkswagen).
The water sources hikers have to drink from (yes, you have to drink from them, the alternative is dehydration and a terrible death) do not always look appetizing at first glance, but you have to realize what we have the technology to turn no-so-tasty looking water into most-tasty-looking water. I began the trail with a Sawyer Squeeze and would probably do the same were I to hike the New Mexico CDT again.
However, once you've removed the physical filth from your water, you may still need to deal with the fact that your water still tastes like dirt or, if you're lucky, poop. This is where I employ my army of True Lemon packets, Mio, and Powerade packets to combat nature's flavors. That being said, when you're thirsty enough, you'll drink anything.
So if you're thinking about hiking the Continental Divide Trail (or if you're looking for an excuse not to), here's an idea of what you have to look forward to while you're out there melting in the New Mexico sun.
At the beginning of the trail, you might be hesitant to drink from these water sources. However, you have no choice so it's best to just embrace it.
Every time you reach a “disgusting” water source, remember to be grateful that there's any water at all.
Tires are a surprisingly common water container along the New Mexico CDT.
Learn to share with the cows – at least they aren't pooping in this one.
Sometimes you get lucky and some nice people leave water out for you to drink (and sometimes it's even in the shade!).
One of the better water sources we found in the first couple weeks.
Troughs are generally good water sources since you know that cows (probably) haven't been pooping in them.
Not pictured: the cows responsible for all the literal shit in and around this water source.
Don't be a dick and try to wash yourself or your clothes in any of these sources. I'm fine drinking cow-poop water, not dirty-hiker water.
I wasn't kidding about the water-filled tires.
Always remember to inspect water sources for their sources, sometimes you'll get lucky and be able to pull water from a pipe.
This water was delicious (despite all of the birds nesting above and pooping in it).
Believe it or not, there was a way to get clear, sediment-free water from this source.
Green things are good for you, right? (NOTE THE PIPE!)
Basically an oasis.
It's best to just assume that all the water you find will be brown or green. Just imagine it's chocolate or vegetable flavored.
If you find a water source with a cover, please, cover it back up before you leave.
CDT water sources: the ultimate test for your water filter (spoiler alert: it's going to clog).
We had to fight off a herd of cattle to get access to this water source (note Stubing the dog in the background).
