Dougt from Castana, Ia on 7/13/2025 5:16:02 PM:
I've done this 8 times out and back(so 16 CT trips) and maybe run into 3 thru hikers in that time, and I know one of them didn't finish. Heck, I've run into at least 2 bikers that quit b/c it wasn't what they were expecting. It would be totally doable if you're up for it, but the only caution that I'd advise is that although Arabia is listed on the map it's misleading b/c it's only a road that the trail crosses so don't plan on getting water or anything there. Big disappointment my first trip. So it's 25 miles from Valentine to Wood Lake, which seems to me like a long way to carry water. Wood Lake has a nice campground right off the trail with water and a RR but no shower. Someone mentioned parks and campgrounds usually near the trail, but in Bassett it's on the opposite side of town so that's good to know. Don't let me scare you off b/c I love doing this each year b/c it's an adventure. Happy Trails!