Shoes and pedals for the Great Divide

[Hamster]

Hi, What would be the best footwear to ride the Great Divide? I
currently use clips and straps but was wondering if it was worth
switching to spd's for the terrain bearing in mind having to carry extra
pedals and shoes.  Also, when it gets hot would boots be to
uncomfortable?  Should I carry boots and sandles?
I know it's all about personal choice but I have no previous experience
touring/mountain biking and so no frame of reference from which to
decide
Thanks.

[ptaylor]

This summer I rode with a guy who used a Shimano Pedal that had SPD on one side and platform on the other side. He could ride in regular shoes or shoes with SPD clips. See REI's Offering. He was quite happy with them, and if I ever need to replace my SPD pedals, that's what I'll get.

I know some people recommend you carry spare shoes and/or clips and/or pedals, but I have never known these to break. I don't carry spares.

I wear regular MTB SPD shoes, and carry a pair of lightweight slip-on street shoes. I put the street shoes on when I get to camp in the evening, and in the morning while breaking camp. In the mornings, these shoes usually get wet from dew, but I have a dry pair of shoes to wear on the bike.

Paul