Continental Divide — Hotel in West Yellowstone

A Line Across Yellowstone, A World of Difference. it's a hydrological boundary that snakes its way through much of Yellowstone National Park. Here's why this hidden gem deserves a spot on your Yellowstone itinerary:

A Natural Watershed: The Continental Divide acts as a rooftop for the continent. Raindrops that fall on the west side eventually make their way to the Pacific Ocean, while those on the east side flow towards the Gulf of Mexico. Standing astride this divide allows you to contemplate the vast journey water takes from the mountains to the distant seas.

Spanning the Landscape: The Continental Divide isn't a single, imposing mountain range. In Yellowstone, it winds through the park for over 115 miles, sometimes subtle, sometimes marked by rolling hills. This unique path adds a layer of intrigue as you explore different areas of the park.

A Spot of Exploration: Several designated spots along the way allow you to experience the Continental Divide firsthand. Craig Pass, accessible by car, offers a great viewpoint and even boasts a lake (Isa Lake) that straddles the divide, draining to both the Pacific and Atlantic watersheds!

Hiking Adventures: For the more adventurous, trails like the Continental Divide Trail offer challenging hikes that take you along the ridgeline of the divide. These hikes reward you with breathtaking panoramic views and a true sense of accomplishment.

A Symbol of Connection: The Continental Divide might separate water flows, but it also serves as a symbol of Yellowstone's diverse ecosystems. Exploring the divide allows you to appreciate the park's interconnectedness and the delicate balance between its various features.

Bonus Tip: Download a map of Yellowstone that highlights the path of the Continental Divide. As you explore different areas of the park, you can track your progress along this hydrological boundary.

Overall: The Continental Divide in Yellowstone National Park is more than just a geographical feature. It's a reminder of the park's fascinating hydrology, a gateway to unique exploration opportunities, and a symbol of the interconnectedness of Yellowstone's wonders. So lace up your hiking boots, grab your map, and embark on a journey along the Continental Divide for a great...

The main photo of sign that comes up is showing 8391 feet. This is the sign at the Continental Divide crossing 5.7 miles east. The western Continental Divide (this marker on the map at Isa Lake) is 8262 feet (per sign). Other than that, this is just one of two crossings within a 6 mile stretch on Grand Loop. ...

It was a great experience and so intriguing to be at Isa lake which is believed to be the only natural lake in the world which drains to two different oceans. I had no idea such a fact existed. The lake has nothing special, and was covered in lilypads when we visited. Its look depends...