GDMBR FAQ

The GDMBR FAQ is your ultimate guide to understanding the original bikepacking route. Covering over 3000 miles from Jasper, Alberta, to Antelope Wells, New Mexico, the GDMBR test riders with rugged terrain, long distances, and unpredictable weather. This GDMBR FAQ covers the most common bikepacking fundamentals, including navigation, resupply strategies, transportation logistics, and essential planning tips for success.

Soon I’ll put together a GDMBR Guide that will cover the things in this GDMBR FAQ but in more detail to help aid riders in their planning process. Key an eye on the site for this coming soon!

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TRAVEL TO AND FROM

Riding the GDMBR is hard enough, getting to and from the route shouldn’t be too. This section of the GDMBR FAQ is here to help. From finding the best ways to get to Jasper, to navigating transportation options after reaching Antelope Wells or Columbus, New Mexico, we’ve compiled answers to the most common questions.

Ensure your travel plans are seamless and stress-free. Find detailed information on travel to and from the GDMBR at the following:

A:  Calgary is the best airport to fly into if one is starting in Jasper. El Paso is the closest airport to Antelope Wells, NM, but Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport is cheapest.

A:  One can use a shuttle service like the Banff Airporter, Sundog Tours, and Brewster Express. TIPS – Most shuttles prefer you keep the bike in the box.

A:  Yes, one can ride roughly 84 miles (135 km) to Banff. Then you continue on 1A to Lake Louise another 31 miles (50 km). From there its another 143 miles (230 km) on the Icefields Parkway to Jasper. This section is widely considered one of the best road touring experiences in the world.

(258 mi or 415 km in total)

A:  What is best may vary depending on the individual. The options are use a shuttle service, or ride (I heard the backroads from El Paso are very sandy and Rt. 9 is the best bet). It’s about 175 miles (282 km), or take the train* from Lordsburg, NM.

*The train won’t take your bike so it would have to be shipped or transported some other way.

Shuttles

  • Juan More Time Shuttle: For pick-up and drop-off services, call Juan at 575-388-9272 or 575-590-4426 (cell).
  • South West Trailhead Hand “Bike Ranch”: Jeffery Sharp offers various services including showers, bike boxes, food, beverages, and more. Reach him at 575-519-9111
  • Los Milagros Hotel Shuttle: Based in Columbus, NM, this service provides shuttles for 1-3 people. The cost is $230 for guests and $250 for non-guests. This includes transport from the border to their hotel and to the El Paso airport. Call or text 915-526-2307 for more details.

A:  You can contact a local shop in Jasper or El Paso or Phoenix that can receive your bike (and build it up if you want). This is better than shipping it to a hotel or shop near the airport since you eliminate having to travel to the start with your bike. Thus giving you more travel options by not having the bike.

A:  Most people choose to fly with their bike.

See our Shipping or Flying With Your Bike post for more on the subject.

A:  YYC Calgary International Airport said the following, “Please break down the box as much as possible and place it next to the recycling containers. Our janitorial staff will take care of the rest.”

A:  If you finish in Jasper, one of the many bike shops will have a box. If you finish at Antelope Wells, Jeffery Sharp has a limited supply (call in advance) or you can get one at a bike shop in El Paso.

Bike Flights will also ship you an empty box that you can ship you bike with them.

A:  There are various items you would need, including and not limited to: Passport, eTA (Canada), VWP and ESTA for the US or B-1 or B-2.

A:  Passengers traveling to the US under the VWP must have a valid ticket for a confirmed return or onward flight from the US within 90 days of arrival.

A:  Most individuals just use one of the hotels they will be staying at during their stay.

More Travel Help

LOGISTICS

Tackling logistic of a major ride like the GDMBR, can be essential for a smooth ride. This logistics section of the GDMBR FAQ will help break it all down into manageable pieces. From resupply strategies to planning daily mileage, we’ll answer the most asked questions to ensure you’re prepared on and off the bike.

A:  The official route GPX files (and maps) can be purchased from the American Cycling Association.

A:  GPS units like the Garmin eTrex or Edge series,  are preferred over phones for their battery life and ability to run on AA batteries (eTrex) in an emergency. Wahoo, Hammerhead, and Coros Dura are also very popular as primary navigation devices. A cell phone makes a great back up. Be sure to have the GPS track loaded on your phone too.

A:  Southbound mid to late June. Northbound late April or mid to late August are most common.

A:  You will find water, and bathrooms. If you arrive late you can camp.

A:  No there is not. Plan ahead and don’t expect to be calling for a ride. Have it all planned out before hand.

A:  The average answer is $1-$4999 USD. Most statistics say $40-70 a day. 

A:  A solid logistics tip is to always have $50–$100 in emergency cash tucked away.

A: One can camp: Whistlers Campground, Wapiti Campground, and Pine Bungalows Resort, or stay in a hotel. Hotels can be pricy and booking should be done well in advance.

A:  The closest option would be at The Hachita Bike Ranch with Jeffery Sharp. Lordsburg, NM is the closest hotel option.

A:  In reality your only two options to push it or hitch a ride to the closest bike shop. If you have cell service we suggest calling whatever shop you’re going to, they might know of some local options. 

More Logistics Help

  • GDMBR Guide – COMING SOON!
GDMBR SOBO Big Bundle, planning aid, guide, bikepacking

ROUTE

Understanding the route is a key component of preparing for the GDMBR, and this section of the GDMBR FAQ covers everything you need to know. From the official starting point in Jasper, Alberta, to the finish line at the border in Antelope Wells, New Mexico, we’ll answer common questions about navigation, terrain, and key points along the way.
For additional support, the Project’s GDMBR Planning Aids provide key details, including mileage, elevation gain/loss, resupply options, pavement miles, and more to ensure you’re fully prepared for the journey ahead.

A:  No. While they share most of the same path, the Tour Divide is a specific race route with its own set of mandatory alternates (like the Gold Dust Trail or Wamsutter). The GDMBR is the Adventure Cycling Association (ACA) touring route, which typically uses more established roads and includes the full Jasper extension.

A:  Adventure Cycling Association GDMBR website has a “Updates & Corrections” tab for each route where they post updates to the routes. 

A:  The NOAA Snowtel Report is the best option.

Tour Divide FAQ: Chart displaying the best time to ride the Tour Divide based on weather, trail conditions, and seasonal factors.

Tour Divide FAQ: This chart highlights the best time to ride the Tour Divide, factoring in weather, trail conditions, and seasonal challenges.

A:  The ACA’s claims it to be  2,700 mi (4345 km) to 3,083 mi (4962 km) long, depending on the route you choose.

A: About 90% of the route consist of unpaved surfaces. The remaining portion is paved roads. Off road sections can vary from hard pack, to deep sand, “death” mud when wet, to ends miles of washboard.

A:  The total elevation gain is over 200,000 feet (approximately 61,000 meters).

A: Montana has the most elevation gain but Canada has a higher Feet per Mile.

  • Feet
  • Canada
  • Colorado
  • Montana
  • New Mexico
  • Wyoming
  • Idaho
  • Feet
  • 46116
  • 41878
  • 47617
  • 39387
  • 23938

  • 2300
  • Miles
  • 587
  • 537
  • 701
  • 690
  • 482
  • 76
  • FT /Mile
  • 78.6
  • 77.9
  • 68
  • 57.1
  • 49.7
  • 30.3
  • Meters
  • 14056
  • 12764
  • 14514
  • 12005
  • 7296
  • 701
  • Kilometers
  • 945
  • 865
  • 1127
  • 1110
  • 775
  • 122
  • M / KM
  • 14.9
  • 14.8
  • 12.9
  • 10.8
  • 9.4
  • 5.7

A: The highest point is Indiana Pass in Colorado at 11913 feet (3631 m).

A:  If you buy the ACA’s digit files, they give you access to Ride With GPS files for the route which have elevation profiles. The ACA maps also have profiles on them.

A: Jasper and Northern Rockies (June):

Daytime: 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C)

Nighttime: 30°F to 40°F (-1°C to 4°C), with possible freezing temperatures at higher elevations.

Central Rockies (Montana/Wyoming/Colorado):

Daytime: 60°F to 85°F (15°C to 29°C), depending on elevation and time of summer.

Nighttime: 35°F to 50°F (2°C to 10°C), occasionally dipping below freezing at high-altitude passes.

Deserts of New Mexico:

Daytime: 90°F to 110°F (32°C to 43°C) in late June to July.

Nighttime: 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C), with cooler mornings in desert areas.

A:  Adventure Cycling Association GDMBR maps are the best physical and digital option available.

A:  Yes, there are multiple alternates one can take. They are on the ACA maps. The Watch Duty app is great for tracking/locating wild fires.

More Route Help

Tour Divide FAQ: Chart displaying the best time to ride the Tour Divide based on weather, trail conditions, and seasonal factors.

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RESUPPLY

Resupplying can be a daunting task. From total miles to elevation gain to average miles per day to one’s diet. All of these effect how you plan and execute your resupply. The Project’s GDMBR Planning Aids are a huge help when it comes to planning your resupply strategy.

From our experience we can say that any plan is better than none. The more information you have the better. Just knowing where the your options are is key. The reality is your plans will change, the question is, will you have the tools you need when it does? This GDMBR FAQ section will set you on the right path.

A:  Resupply options vary from one room gas stations or camp stores all the way to large chain grocery stores, and everything in between. In smaller towns restaurants are rare and usually have basic menus. This is way planning goes a long way. The key is to be flexible and to plan ahead. You can’t just buy to get yourself to the next resupply, but instead be sure to know what comes after. You might need to buy more now for later.

A:  One can use “general delivery” to ship resupply packages to post offices. Another option is to ship packages to hotels or other places you plan to stay at. This saves you a trip to the post office. Just be sure to call and verify they are okay with holding your package.

A:  It’s always good to have a plan. Most would break down the typical resupply strategies to: Ship to yourself before hand, buy as you go, or buy on trail and ship ahead.
My resupply strategy for long distance trips goes something like this:  I take the total mileage of the route and divide it by the number of days I think I’ll need to complete it. This gives me my average miles per day (I’ll adjust accordingly for elevation gain). Then I take that and use it to determine the number of days between each resupply. Last, I then make a graph with columns for Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and a row for each day needed for the section. I then figure out if I need a meal, or plan on buying it. Now I have the total number of meals I need for that section. This works for all three methods of resupply.

A: Some of these long stretches below have off route options available but below shows just on route options. For more planning help with your resupply strategy look at our GDMBR Planning Aids. Most would tell you to be able to carry 2-3 days worth of food.

  • Miles
  • Hilton, AB to Convenience Store
  • Wise River, MT to Lima, MT
  • Lava Mtn. Lodge to Pinedale, WY
  • Atlantic City, WY to Rawlins, WY
  • Rawlins, WY to Clark Store
  • Sargents, CO to Del Norte, CO
  • Del Norte, CO to Abiquiu, NM
  • Cuba, NM to Grants, NM
  • Grants, NM to Lake Roberts Cabins & Gen. Store
  • Miles
  • 269.0
  • 135.4
  • 98.8
  • 133.5
  • 115.6
  • 110.2
  • 188.4
  • 116
  • 242.2
  • Kilometers
  • 433
  • 218
  • 159
  • 215
  • 186
  • 177
  • 303
  • 187
  • 390

A:  At times it can be. The best advice I can give is to know your body and how to fuel it to get the best from it. If finding quality foods is a concern, plan on carrying extra food when you can find it.

A:  For the most part water is fairy easy to find. There are some stretches like in the Great Basin and parts of New Mexico where it can be difficult to find. The ACA maps do a great job of mentioning where there is water. The Project’s Planning Aids list all the major sources. 

A:  A bounce box is a box one ships to a location some place ahead of them on the trail. When you reach that location you can either retrieve it or forward it ahead if you don’t need it (You must use Priority Mail to do this and can’t open it if you want to forward it). The bounce box contains things you don’t want to carry on the bike but want in town. Things like: town clothes, nail clippers, shampoo, maps, spare batteries, contacts, or any other number of things you don’t need daily but use only in town.

GDMBR Planning Aids

Click “Buy Now” button below to visit our store with larger examples and more details.

Our GDMBR Planning Aids include four distinct styles to help you plan your ride:

  • The Data Sheet: Offers the most detailed information, including distance, elevation +/-, resupply options, notes and more for key POI.
  • Town List: provides cumulative distances between POI, and does the math so you don’t have to.
  • Mileage Chart and Elevation Gain Chart: are simple graphs showing cumulative mileage and elevation gain between POI.

Data Sheet - $25.00

Town List ONLY available as part of Small / Big Bundle

Mileage Chart and Elevation Gain Chart ONLY available as part of Big Bundle

Small Bundle – $40.00  *You save $10 when you bundle!

Big Bundle – $60.00  *You save $20 when you bundle!

BIKE / GEAR

Some will tell you the best bike is the one you have. That might be true but in this section of our GDMBR FAQ we’ll cover key equipment choices, and we’ll cover the basics to get you and your bike dailed for the GDMBR.

Here at The Project we’ve only ridden the Tour Divide route, though mostly the same our focus was speed. With that said our  Tour Divide Rider Survey, where past participants share their setups, gear choices, and firsthand experiences still might offer some help.

A:  The most popular type of bike is a Hard Tail MTB. 

A:  Most ride rigid bikes but with a front suspension fork for comfort. 100mm of travel is the most common amount of travel.

A:  The most popular wheel size is 29, and the most popular tire size is 20-2.2.

A:  For touring the GDMBR, a 2x might offer the best range. If you have a 1x set up, try to get the widest range cassette you can. A 30-32th chain ring is optimal.

A:  Tubeless is definitely the better option and the most popular. Due to the amount of road riding and things like “goathead” thorns, tubeless work best. Be sure to carry two spare tubes, a patch kit, and tire boot for larger gashes.

A:  Over half the riders use aero bars.

A:  For touring it’s spilt between flats and clipless.

A:  Today the trend is to use the soft bikepacking style bags. Though if weight is not a concern, traditional panniers still work well for those prioritizing storage volume.

A:  The answer really depends on your average speed. A safe estimate for the average rider would be 4-6 lites. This will vary for the individual and where on the route you are. Hydration sleeves or dromedory bags are best. In the Great Basin and parts of New Mexico you might have to carry 6-8 liters.

A: 

  • Power Banks: Most cost-effective. A 20,000mAh bank can usually last 3–5 days between towns.
  • Dynamo Hubs: Best for “infinite” power but expensive. They are less efficient on the GDMBR’s slow, steep climbs where you may not hit the 7–9 mph needed for a strong charge. Dynamo Hubs are great for running your GPS, but not for charging things like headlamps, phones and power banks.

A: Most riders today use hydraulic brakes, despite trail side repairs being possible with mechanical ones. (Be sure to carry a full set of brake pads with you. One bad storm and some mud and you can burn through a set of pads in a day).

A: The major one is to clean your chain and keep it lubed. You might even have to do it multiple times in one day. If you don’t you will replace it and maybe a cassette before you’re done.

It’s also a good idea to monitor your tire pressure, check major bolts like cleats, seat post and any rack mounts regularly. Lastly be sure to check straps for tightness and packs for rubbing.

CAMPING

The length and relaxed pace of the GDMBR offers riders plenty of opportunities to camp and enjoy nature. From wild dispersed camping to full on glamping, you’ll find it. The ACA maps offering many options, and you’ll find online options from previous riders with a little digging. GAIA maps can be used to see where public land is as well, and is a great way to find dispersed camping options. With these options here and this GDMBR FAQ section on camping, you’ll have all the tools you need.

A:  No. A the majority of the GDMBR passes through National Forest and BLM land where dispersed camping is free and legal, but large portions of the route cross private property, tribal lands, and National Parks where it is strictly prohibited.
In these restricted areas, one must stay in designated campgrounds or reach the next section of public land. Using a tool like Gaia GPS or the Adventure Cycling Association (ACA) maps is the best way to distinguish between public and private boundaries to avoid trespassing.


Other apps:

Recreation.gov

A:  For the most part, no. Most of the route utilizes dispersed camping on public land. However, if you plan to stay in National Park campgrounds near Grand Teton or Banff, advance reservations are often necessary during peak summer.

A:  Freestanding tents are the most recommended shelter. They offer the best versatility for set up (pitching on hard surfaces like parking lots, wooden platforms, or abandoned buildings where you cannot easily drive stakes).

A:  A quality down bag at least down to 20°F (-6°C) to 25°F bag is needed to handle high-elevation Colorado nights.

A:  4-6 liters is the most common answer (6-8 liters in dry areas like the Great Basin and parts of New Mexico).

A:  You will be riding through grizzly country, so it’s a good idea. Since you can’t fly with it, you’ll have to pick some up in Jasper, AB. If you’re starting at Antelope Wells of Columbus, Silver City might be you best option.

A:  Ultimately it’s up to you to decide. The best this is to hang it, or at least use smell proof containers. Do your research on bear safety and learn the regulations for the areas you’ll be travel through and be safe.

A:  Canister stoves are the most popular choice. Fuel canisters can be found in the larger towns along the route but much harder to find in the smaller ones. Plan ahead to ensure you have enough fuel.

CLOTHING

If you’re doing the GDMBR, chances are you know what works for you and what doesn’t. If you don’t then do yourself a favor and go on some test rides. Figure out what works. The problem most run into is they carry too much. This can lead to injuries, burnout and more.

Like with the gear section one might get some insight from the Project’s Tour Divide Rider Survey. For additional tips, check out our resources on How to Stay Dry When Bikepacking and How to Stay Warm When Bikepacking to ensure you’re prepared for the varied conditions you’ll face on the route.

More Clothing Help

ELECTRONICS

Today electronics play a much bigger role in bike touring. From keeping ones phone, camera, ear buds, watches, GPS, PLB, and other items charged to knowing power delivery system is best can be a challenge to figure out.

This section of the GDBMR FAQ answers some of the most popular questions like the ones above and more. Don’t be caught out in the dark.

A: The most common option is the Garmin eTrex series. Wahoo, Hammerhead, and Coros Dura make great options too. A cell phone is a great back up, so be sure to have a copy of the GPX file upload in case you need it.

A: The two most common ways are external batteries and dynmo hubs. Most dynmo hubs are best suited for running your GPS or cycling computer, while charging items like your phone, headlamp, and other items is best done with external batteries.

A:  Klite is the most popular bike lighting system. SON is the most popular hub. Blackdiamond is the most popular headlamp.

A:  Many riders find them too fragile and unreliable due to forest cover, mountain shadows, and frequent rain/snow. They are also a lot of work to ensure they are in the direct sunlight and properly attached to your bike.

A:  With it’s many large areas like the Great Basin and others without cell service and lack of people, carrying a personal location beacon is a good idea. We have a great post that talks about them and should be of some help on the subject.

A:  There are plenty of options to use wall sockets to charge your devices. If you have a keen eye and look for them you’ll find them. Be sure to ask before just plugging in your devices (at places like restaurants, stores, or other businesses).

 Always carry a multi-port wall plug with “fast charging” capability so you can top off all your devices quickly during a lunch stop at a restaurant.

A:  See out section on Bike Gear. We answer this question there, under the GPS question.

SAFETY

Safety should be a top priority for anyone tackling the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route (GDMBR). Because this route traverses some of the most remote corridors in North America, being prepared is as much about mental discipline as it is about gear. This section of our GDMBR FAQ addresses the core safety essentials—from the practicalities of carrying a bike lock in small towns to the high-stakes reality of traveling through grizzly country.

Ultimately, riders are responsible for their own safety. Out here, help can be hours or more away, making sound decision-making your most valuable asset. Staying safe on the GDMBR involves:

  • Wildlife Preparedness: Understanding how to store food properly and how to react during encounters with bears, moose, and mountain lions.
  • First Aid Readiness: Carrying a functional kit and possessing the knowledge to treat wounds or manage illness in the backcountry.
  • Self-Regulation: Tuning into your body’s signals to recognize the difference between “good” fatigue and dangerous exhaustion or injury.
  • Environmental Awareness: Making smart calls regarding river crossings, lightning storms on high passes, and water sources.

Preparation is your best defense against the unpredictable. To get ahead of the physical demands of the Divide, be sure to review our Most Common Bikepacking Injuries resource. It’s a vital tool to help you recognize and prevent the issues that frequently sideline riders before they reach the finish line.

A: Travel insurance is a great idea. If you get the right plan it will not only cover you but your gear and travel.

See our Travel Insurance post for more on the subject.

A: Most carry minimalist options like the Hiplok Z LOK or the Ottolock. Other strategies include using the “Buddy system” of taking turns when shopping or leaving the bikes.

A: There is always a chance of animal encounters when spending so much time in the woods. Know things like bear safety, proper food storage, which animals are along the route and how to conduct yourself safely.

A: Yes. One should have both a headlight and tail light, as you will be mainly on roads with other traffic.

A: The remoteness and difficulty of the route should not be taken lightly. One needs to be aware of extreme weather, traffic, animal encounters, wild fires and more.

Snow can fall any time in the high country so be prepared for all kinds of weather. Speaking of weather, it can change very fast so monitor it regularly. Hypothermia is a concern due to the two factors I just mentioned.

A: In the northern sections of the route where bears are more of an issue many riders use an Ursack Major or a scent-proof Opsak liner to deter grizzlies and other rodents. We suggest keeping these for the entire route. If you use popular campsites and campgrounds mice and other rodents are used to getting a free meal and can be a problem.

A: Yes, it’s always a good idea to filter your water

A: The answer is Yes. Lightning is always a possibility. High passes in Colorado are always prone to afternoon storms. Checkout our post on Lightning Safety, (a lot has changed on the subject).

FINAL THOUGHTS ON THE GDMBR

Tackling the GDMBR is a massive undertaking, but it’s also one of the most rewarding ways to see the spine of the continent. Whether you’re planning a fast-and-light push or a steady tour to soak it all in, remember that flexibility is your best piece of gear.
The Great Divide isn’t just a physical test; it’s a lesson in adaptability. Your plans will change, the weather will shift, and your bike will make noises you’ve never heard before. By using the resources in this GDMBR FAQ—and keeping an eye out for our upcoming GDMBR Guide—you’re already ahead of the curve. Preparation gives you the confidence to handle the “unexpecteds” so you can focus on the ride of a lifetime.
See you on the Divide.

More Helpful GDMBR Resources

Everything you need to plan a bikepacking trip on the GDMBR.

Ultimate Guide to the GDMBR:

Route, Resources, and More

bikepacking bike leaning against Old Bannack Road sign with grass covered hill behind.
GDMBR SOBO Data Sheet, planning aid, guide, bikepacking

Checkout our bikepacking resource page for more planning help.