Most People Don’t Know There’s a Hole in the Continental Divide Right Here in Wyoming

When you think of the Continental Divide in Wyoming, you probably picture majestic mountains, massive and solid, mightily drawing a dividing line through North America. That's why it may be surprising to learn that there's a hole in that colossal mountain range and that it's right here in Wyoming. The hole is known as the Great Divide Basin, and it's located in a high desert region of the mountains which, it turns out, is the perfect place for such an anomaly.

The Great Divide Basin is an intriguing bowl sitting in the Wyoming part of the mountain range that forms the Continental Divide. The basin is located in the southcentral-ish part of the Cowboy State. About 20 miles southwest of Rawlins, Wyoming, the mountain range opens up, splitting off in two directions before coming together again near South Pass, forming the basin. Between 34 and 56 million years ago, a lake filled the Great Divide Basin as well as the Green River Basin. Lake Gosiute dried up millions of years ago but left behind silica and layers of rock that created the floors of both basins.

If you find yourself wondering, "What is the Continental Divide?" Well, the Continental Divide serves as a separating line for the water flow in the United States. Water from rain and snow falling on the west side of the mountain range flows into the Pacific Ocean, while water on the east side flows into the Atlantic. However, precipitation falling into the Great Divide Basin doesn't drain directly or indirectly into either ocean.

The way the basin retains water allows it to support a variety of wildlife in the arid desert region. In addition to rabbits and smaller rodents here at the WY Continental Divide, there are mule deer, elk, antelope, sage grouse, eagles, and hawks, and cougars, bobcats, and coyotes also call the Great Divide Basin home. The last known wild bison herd in Wyoming made the basin their home at the Continental Divide in WY, too.

Although there are no campgrounds in the Great Divide Basin, rock climbers, hikers, and other adventure-seekers enjoy setting up camp practically everywhere to spend a few nights in the stunning Wyoming wilderness. This is a terrific place to find peace and quiet in nature, where you can relax to nature's soundtrack. Plus, the night sky here is breathtaking, with starry skies making you quickly fall in love with the Cowboy State.

Check out the Continental Divide Trail for a multi-day backpacking adventure. This trail is extensive, covering up to 510 miles throughout the state. One of its highlights is the stretch through Yellowstone National Park, allowing you to hike near famous geysers and take in breathtaking scenery. You can learn more about different portions of this massive trail on AllTrails.

If you are looking for even more places to explore in the Cowboy State, check out some of the best hiking trails in Wyoming for your next adventure.