GDMBR starting in May?

[mjlauterbach]

I've heard that it's possible to start the GDMBR in mid-May going south to north. Can anyone confirm that?

I'm planning on doing the trail this summer but have a job starting Aug. 1, which made me think doing the whole thing would be tight for time. A May start would be brilliant -- it seems pretty clear that it's a bad idea to start from the north anytime before mid-June.

Thanks in advance for any advice you might have. -Mike

[Dan]

We rode the great divide south to north leaving on  
May 28th, 2003.  It depends on the weather and if
there were any late snowstorms but it wil be cooler
throughout NM.  We only encountered one pass
with some snow drifts that we were able to ride
over or ride partway across before dismounting
and pushing the bike another 10 feet.  I think you
will be fine leaving around May 15th.

[mjlauterbach]

Thanks Dan. Glad to hear it can be done. I'm surprised there isn't more stuff out there about doing the route this way...