Ultimate GDMBR Transportation Guide: Passports, Airports, And More

Welcome to our GDMBR Transportation Guide, your comprehensive resource for planning travel to the start line, including airports, shuttles, and tips. This GDMBR Transportation Guide provides riders with the essentials they need for a smooth journey to and from the route. Navigating the travel logistics of the GDBMR can be as difficult as the ride itself, especially depending on which international borders you have to cross.

Detailed planning is crucial to ensure a seamless trouble free journey. This guide is designed to make your transportation arrangements easier, helping you focus on the adventure ahead rather than the details of getting to and from the route.

Popular Resources:

Bikepacking Resources

Planning Aids

Bikepacking Gear

Rider Survey's

TRAVEL TO AND FROM

Since riding the GDMBR means border crossings, there is an extra level of complexity depending on where you’re coming from. This section provides a detailed breakdown of the basics for entering and exiting the US and Canada for the GDMBR.

For detailed information on passports, visas, VWP, eTA, ESTA, customs regulations, and border crossings, refer to our full travel guides:

Bikepacking in the USA & Canada – For non-US riders traveling to North America
International Bikepacking – For US riders traveling abroad

The remainder of this transportation guide focuses on logistics like, shuttles, buses, airports, lodging, and more to help you plan your ride.

With today’s ever changing political climate be sure to visit the official websites for your own country and those your going to as information, rules, and restrictions could change daily.

Entry & Exit Overview

US Citizens

Entering Canada: A valid passport is required to fly or drive into Canada.
Returning to the US: US citizens will need a valid passport book or card.
ArriveCAN App: No longer required but still available for convenience.

Non-US Citizens

Entering Canada: A valid passport is required. An Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), is required for most travelers flying into Canada.

Entering the US:
- Visa Waiver Program (VWP) travelers: Must apply for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) before arrival.
- Non-VWP travelers: Must apply for a B-1 (Business) or B-2 (Tourism) Visa in advance.
- Canadian citizens only need a valid passport to enter the US.

International Travel Guides

For a full breakdown of travel requirements, visas, and border policies, visit our dedicated guides below.

Non-US Riders: Bikepacking in the USA & Canada

US Riders: International Bikepacking

Items covered:

Visas: Visa Waiver Program (VWP), ESTA & B-1/B-2 Visas for US entry
eTA: Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) for Canada
Passports: Requirements & customs regulations
Health: Precautions & vaccinations
Safety: Travel insurance & emergency planning
Logistics: Border crossing tips & potential travel delays
Bike: Shipping & flying with your bike
Travel Tips: gear/resupply, pre/post trip considerations, and more

GDMBR Planning Aids

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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

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

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WHICH AIRPORT TO FLY INTO?

One has options when flying into and home from the GDMBR. This GDMBR Transportation Guide will give your the options, and details for each so you can decide which is the best option for your adventure.

Riders who are starting in the north have two options, Edmonton (YEG) International Airport and Calgary International Airport (YYC). Both offer access to Jasper and have shuttle options to get you from the airport to the start.

At the southern end, the official endpoint at Antelope Wells is extremely remote with no services or transit options. For flights home or a northbound start, El Paso International Airport (ELP) offers the best balance of proximity and flight availability, with connections across the U.S. Tucson International Airport (TUS) is another option, slightly farther but sometimes offering more competitive routes depending on your origin.
Another options is: Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) is about 5.5 hours.

Northern Terminus (Starting/Finishing in Canada)

Southern Terminus (Starting/Finishing in New Mexico)

Starting / Finishing in the US

Pro-Tip

If by chance you happen to fly one way to either the start or home from the finish as I did, keep in mind that depending on which airline you choose, your bike could cost more to fly than you. Choose wisely!

Northern Terminus

(Starting/Finishing in Canada)

If you plan to start in Jasper, AB at the official start, then Edmonton (YEG) International Airport is your best option. It’s only 4 hours by car (about 400 km). For riders starting in Banff, AB Calgary International Airport (YYC ) is the most practical choice.

EDMONTON, AB

Domestic Carriers:

International Carriers:

Flying into YEG, your transportation to the northern terminus will look something like this.

Option 1 – Take the Sundog Tours Shuttle

Option 2 – Rent a car

Option 3 – Ride to start, 223.7 to 248.5 miles (360-400 km) . NOTE: The main route is on Route 16 which is a major highway, better to map out a more remote route.

CALGARY, AB

Domestic Carriers:

International Carriers:

Flying into YYC, your transportation to the northern terminus will look something like this.

Option 1 – Schedule a seat on the Banff Airporter and Brewster Express (see below for details).

Option 2 – Ride to start, 89 miles (143 km) 7:36. NOTE: this route is mostly on Highway 1.

Southern Terminus

(Starting/Finishing in New Mexico)

If your ride starts or finishes at Antelope Wells, NM (or Columbus, NM) the best option is El Paso International Airport (ELP). It’s the closest airport to the southern terminus and has the most transportation options. It’s roughly 176 miles and about 2 hours 53 minutes depending traffic.

Tucson, AZ or Albuquerque, NM are possible options but they’re much further alway and harder to find transportation to.

EL PASO, TX

DOMESTIC CARRIERS:

INTERNATIONAL CARRIERS:

Aeromexico (offering flights to and from Mexico)

TUCSON, AZ

ALBUQUERQUE, NM

Tucson International Airport (TUS) is your second closest airport from the southern terminuses. It’s roughly 70 miles further than El Paso, TX and 45 minutes more in drive time. It’s on the smaller side when it comes to international airports. This does make it easier to get around.

At 328 miles and 5 hours and 15 minutes drive time, Albuquerque International Airport (ABQ) is your furtherest option from the finish.

DOMESTIC CARRIERS:

INTERNATIONAL CARRIERS:

DOMESTIC CARRIERS:

INTERNATIONAL CARRIERS:

Starting / Finishing in the US

Tackling the entire route takes a big time and financial commitment. As a result not everyone can ride the entire route all at once. Also, other factors like injury, family issue at home, or major mechanicals mean having to exit the trail before reaching the finish.

There are multiple options along the route for when of these situations arises. The logistics of when this happens make things harder but their are options.

Airports Along the Route

Montana

Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) – Whitefish, MT
Great Falls International Airport (GTF) – Helena / Ovando, MT
Missoula Montana Airport (MSO) – Ovando, MT
Helena Regional Airport (HLN) – Helena, MT
Bert Mooney Airport (BTM) – Butte, MT
Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) – Butte, MT

Wyoming

Jackson Hole Airport (JAC) – Togwotee Pass, WY
Yellowstone Regional Airport (COD) – Atlantic City, WY

Idaho

Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA) – Flagg Ranch / South Yellowstone, WY

Colorado

Yampa Valley Regional Airport (HDN) – Steamboat Springs, CO
Denver International Airport (DEN) – Breckenridge, CO

New Mexico

Silver City Grant County Airport (SVC) – Silver City, NM

Take a loot at the Transportation Options section below for ways to access some of these airport options. Not all of them have commercial options making them difficult options.

A couple years ago two from Norway flew out of Juarez, Mexico. Daily flights to Amsterdam. They took a cab from the Hilton in El Paso.
Most down unders get on the train or fly from Tucson to L.A. Bike friendly and they have the Saguaro cactus, good for photos. Tucson is also one of the top ten gastronomic cities in the US. Some get on the train in EL Paso.
The most popular exit is to get boxed up here, get on the Greyhound bus to Phoenix. The Greyhound bus requires the bikes to be boxed. The new Greyhound station is next to the SkyHarbor airport, airport shuttles available to hotels. Many will hang out here and extra days to time their flight. Phoenix is a very large hub and flights are less expensive.

-Jeffery Sharp,The Bike Ranch

TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS

GDMBR Transportation Guide: Key Data for All Your Transportation Options

Booking the proper transportation options for the GDMBR requires detailed planning. This GDMBR Transportation Guide covers the available options, helping you get to the start line and home without unneeded hassle.

The GDMBR offers several transportation options to get to and from the start/finish. Which one is best, ultimately is up to you and your personal needs. This section of our GDMBR Transportation Guide shows you the different options available to you.

From buses, to shuttle services, trains, riding one’s bike, and private pickups, the options are many. Each of these options offers its own benefits and considerations. With this in mind its important to research each to determine which one is the best fit for you and your travel needs. Doing so will help ensure hassle free travel to and from the GDMBR.

SHUTTLES

JASPER, AB:

SunDog Tours: Contact them at 1-888-786-3641 for shuttle services to and from Jasper (to Edmonton). Bikes must be in a box and costs about $30 CAD.
Brewster Express: Contact them at 877-625-4372. Daily service to Jasper from Edmonton. Bikes must be in box.

BANFF, AB:

Banff Airporter: Enjoy a 10-15% discount on your ticket with the code “divide.” They highly recommend making your reservation 2-3 weeks prior to travel to ensure your spot. You’ll find them in the domestic terminal between Exit doors 5 and 6 at Area “B” (between Tim Horton’s and Starbucks). All passengers need to check in ahead of time. The drive to Banff takes approximately 1 hour 45 minutes, not including time for loading and unloading passengers. 1-888-449-2901. info@banffairporter.com.
SunDog Tours: Contact them at 1-888-786-3641 for shuttle services to and from Banff.
Vivo Green Shuttle: Runs shuttle from YYC to Banff. 587-968-5088. https://vivogreentravel.com/#
Ride-Easy: Airport pick up, transportation in and around Calgary and to Banff, as well as garage/tools to build bike, 1 bear spray can, 1 fuel canister, and a stop at the grocery store. https://forms.gle/mjLHitmspQU91CYeA

ANTELOPE WELLS, NM:

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 or via email at sharpjeffery1@gmail.com. Located at PO Box 114, 4311 Highway 9, Hachita, NM 88040. For the best service, text him directly. GPS Coordinates: N31°55.689′ W108°20.273′.

OTHER OPTIONS:

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.
Linked Adventures: Based in Butte, MT, they offer bike shuttles, route planning, and full adventure planning for the Butte area and southwest Montana. Call 406-498-9653 or visit their website for more information.
Adventure Cycling Association (ACA): For a comprehensive list of shuttle services along the entire trail, check the ACA’s resources.

BUSES

JASPER, AB:

SEE Shuttle options to the left.
If you fly into Calgary, AB (YYC) you’ll have to combine the services of Sundog Tours to go from the airport to Banff, then Brewster Express to get to Jasper.

ANTELOPE WELLS, NM:

Greyhound Station: The Greyhound station in Lordsburg, NM, offers connections to nearby airports:
- El Paso, TX: About 7.5 miles from the Greyhound station. Fares range from $36 to $47.50.
- Tucson, AZ: About 8.2 miles from the Greyhound station. Fares range from $38.50 to $56.50.
- Albuquerque, NM: About 5.2 miles from the Greyhound station. Fares range from $42 to $57.

Baggage Requirements:

Maximum Size: Greyhound allows a maximum combined size of 62 inches (157 cm) for luggage, including bicycles.
Bike Boxing: You must box your bicycle for travel. Jeffery Sharp provides bike boxes and other bike-related services. Check the shuttles section for more details.

PICK UP

JASPER, AB

For those getting picked up in Jasper, drivers can use this map to find the finish.

ANTELOPE WELLS, NM

Antelope Wells, NM to El Paso International Airport 176 miles, 2:54 drive time. Google Directions

Antelope Wells, NM to Tucson International Airport 242 miles, 3:38 drive time. Google Directions

Antelope Wells, NM to Albuquerque International Airport 328 miles, 4:58 drive time. Google Directions

RIDE

YEG to JASPER, AB

The distance is roughly 245 miles or 400 km.

ANTELOPE WELLS, NM

Riding from the finish to El Paso International Airport (ELP) takes about 13 hours by bike. A better option is to ride back to Hachita and use the services of Jeffery Sharp at The Bike Ranch (details provided further down the page)

TRAIN

JASPER, AB:

Edmonton, AB: The train runs from the Edmonton VIA Rail Station (located at 12360 121 St NW), to Jasper. It only runs twice a week. The train ride is about 6.5 hours.

ANTELOPE WELLS, NM:

Lordsburg, NM to El Paso, TX: Amtrak’s Sunset Limited route does serve this area, but it’s primarily a passenger train service and does not have a direct stop in Lordsburg. For transportation to El Paso, you’d need to arrange alternate travel. Amtrak does offer this route, with travel times around 2 hours 55 minutes and fares from $23 to $171, though exact details may vary.
Lordsburg, NM to Tucson, AZ: This route is also served by the Sunset Limited, with travel times around 3 hours 32 minutes and fares ranging from $31 to $173. As with El Paso, you need to arrange your own transportation from the Greyhound station to the airport, approximately 7.8 miles away.
Lordsburg, NM to Albuquerque, NM: Amtrak’s Sunset Limited does not provide a practical route to Albuquerque. The journey involves a lengthy and indirect route that’s not suitable for most travelers, with a travel time of around 14 hours and requiring detours to Los Angeles before returning.

Note: The Lordsburg train station does not accept bicycles as it is unmanned. For transporting your bike, consider using services like Bike Flights or other bike shipping options.

PARKING OPTIONS

GDMBR Transportation Guide: Know Your Parking Options

Most riders are not leaving a car along the route, but if you do need to, this GDMBR Transportation Guide helps you identify secure parking options to keep your vehicle safe while you ride.

START (JASPER, AB):

Jasper: The Stan Wright Drive Long-Term Public Lot, is the official longer term lot. It has a minimum 3-day stay requirement ($45 per 3 days). The town of Jasper only allows up to 72 hours on all public streets.

FINISH (ANTELOPE WELLS, NM):

Antelope Wells: Since this is just a border crossing, it does not have formal parking facilities. There is a small dirt area before the gate one can park and wait for riders to show up, but that’s it.

For both locations, it’s crucial to plan ahead and consider alternatives like arranging a pickup or shuttle service if long-term parking is a concern.

FLYING YOUR BIKE / SHIPPING

GDMBR Transportation Guide: To Ship or Fly With Your Bike

Getting your bike to the start and home from the finish can be a complex and costly endeavor. This GDMBR Transportation Guide breaks downs the pros and cons of both shipping and flying with one’s bike, to help make the process a breeze.

Unless you live within driving distance, most riders have two options to get their bike to the start or home. You can ship it, or fly with it. Each options offers different benefits, and limitations. Knowing these is key to deciding which is best for you.

SHIPPING YOUR BIKE

Shipping your bike offers flexibility and can be tailored to your budget and preferences. Here are the three most common options:

DIY Shipping: Box and ship your bike yourself. Costs start around $50-$200 for a bike packed in cardboard, though actual costs will vary based on weight, size, and destination.
Bike Shop: Many bike shops offer bike boxing services, typically charging around $50. Shipping costs are additional, starting around $50-$200 for a cardboard box, with final costs dependent on weight, size, and location.
Bike Flights: This service provides comprehensive solutions including boxes, pickup and delivery, insurance, and tracking. It’s a great option for hassle-free shipping.
ACA members: receive a 10% discount on cardboard boxes and bike cases through Bike Flights, among other benefits.

FLYING WITH YOUR BIKE

Flying with your bike usually incurs charges between $50 and $150, though some international airlines offer this service for free. Be sure to keep the combined dimensions (length plus width plus height) of your bike box within 62 inches to avoid additional fees. The following site has a great resource that has pricing and details for all the major airline carriers.

Like planning your resupply and water resources, researching airline policies and potential cost-saving tips can be beneficial. With numerous airlines and varying rules, doing your homework can help you avoid extra charges and ensure a smooth journey for your bike.

Shipping or Flying With Your Bike

Shipping or flying with your bike is a crucial part of the logistics for an international bikepacking trip. To ensure your bike arrives safely and without extra costs, check out our detailed Guide on Shipping or Flying with Your Bike, where we cover everything from avoiding airline fees to preventing damage and handling transit hassles.

LODGING

GDMBR Transportation Guide: Know Where to Rest Your Head

This section of the GDMBR Transportation Guide will help you find the best lodging before and after you finish your ride. We’ll help you explore what options are near the start and finish to fit your needs.

START (BANFF, AB):

Jasper: As a world-class mountain destination, Jasper offers a wide range of lodging options, from luxury resorts and hotels to hostels and private home rentals. Options close to the starting area include:
- Hostels: For a budget-friendly stay with a social atmosphere, the Jasper Downtown Hostel is located right in the heart of town with a communal kitchen.
- High end Hotels: Iconic options include the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge for a resort experience, or the Crimson Jasper and Chateau Jasper for modern rooms closer to the town center.
- Budget Motels: The Tonquin Inn, Marmot Lodge, and the Athabasca Hotel (specifically their “budget rooms” with shared hallway bathrooms) are typically the least expensive traditional rooms in town.
- Closest Camping: Whistlers Campground is the closest to the townsite. It’s about a 15-minute ride on a paved path, has hot showers, and is significantly cheaper than any indoor lodging.
- Private Home Accommodations: Jasper is famous for its licensed guest houses, which offer a more personal and quiet stay in residential neighborhoods.

It’s advisable to book your accommodations well in advance, especially during the peak summer season.

FINISH (ANTELOPE WELLS, NM):

Antelope Wells: Being a very remote location, Antelope Wells has extremely limited lodging options. Most riders arrange their finish logistics with nearby towns:
- Hachita, NM: The nearest town with accommodations. Options include:
  - The Bike Ranch: Jeffery Sharp is located a half mile from Hachita and offers a couple guest rooms, one with its own shower and toilet. Food, beverages, internet, laundry, kitchen, dish tv, tools, used tires, tubes, etc. He also is working on converting an office trailer with water that is on the property. Includes a toilet. Very Private and quiet.
  - Hachita Community Center: It has changed from a donations format to $10 per person. Outdoor camping is free. There is a bathroom and kitchen. Big water spigot for public use in front of building. Lots of space for large groups.
Columbus: With the creation of the alternate finish in Columbus, NM, riders now have a second option of where to finish at the southern border.
- - Hole in the Wall Gateway: BigAddison offers bikers and hikers accommodations.

For both start and finish, early planning is essential to secure lodging and ensure a smooth experience. If staying in Antelope Wells, it’s especially important to confirm accommodations or alternative arrangements in advance due to the area’s limited options.

More Helpful GDMBR Resources

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

Ultimate Guide to the GDMBR:

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Ultimate GDMBR Guide

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Ultimate GDMBR Transportation Guide: Passports, Airports, And More

Table of Contents:

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Popular Resources:

TRAVEL TO AND FROM

Entry & Exit Overview

US Citizens

Non-US Citizens

International Travel Guides

Non-US Riders: Bikepacking in the USA & Canada

US Riders: International Bikepacking

GDMBR Planning Aids

WHICH AIRPORT TO FLY INTO?

Northern Terminus

EDMONTON, AB

CALGARY, AB

Southern Terminus

EL PASO, TX

TUCSON, AZ

ALBUQUERQUE, NM

Starting / Finishing in the US

Airports Along the Route

TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS

SHUTTLES

BUSES

PICK UP

RIDE

TRAIN

PARKING OPTIONS

FLYING YOUR BIKE / SHIPPING

SHIPPING YOUR BIKE

FLYING WITH YOUR BIKE

Shipping or Flying With Your Bike

LODGING

More Helpful GDMBR Resources

Ultimate Guide to the GDMBR:

Ultimate GDMBR Guide

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