GDMBR GUIDE - BIKEPACKING
YOUR ULTIMATE BIKEPACKING GUIDE TO THE GDMBR.

Great Divide Mountain Bike Route (GDMBR) Guide

Planning a ride on the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route (GDMBR) raises a lot of questions. The route spans thousands of miles through remote terrain, crosses multiple states, and requires thoughtful planning to ride successfully. Most riders quickly realize the challenge isn’t just the riding—it’s figuring out how to prepare for everything that happens before and during the trip.

This guide provides a clear starting point. It breaks down the GDMBR into the key pieces riders need to understand before heading out: the route itself, how it works logistically, and what to expect along the way.

If you’re early in the planning process, the GDMBR FAQ answers many of the most common questions riders have about timing, preparation, and what the route is actually like.

Popular Resources:

Bikepacking Resources

Planning Aids

Bikepacking Gear

Rider Survey's

Overview

GDMBR Guide: An Overview of the Route

Great Divide Mountain Bike Route (GDMBR) is a long-distance bikepacking route that follows the spine of the Rocky Mountains from Jasper, Alberta, to Antelope Wells, New Mexico, with an alternate finish in Columbus, New Mexico. Covering more than 3,000 miles, the route primarily follows gravel roads, forest service roads, and rural backroads, with only a small percentage of pavement.
The route passes through two Canadian provinces and five U.S. states, connecting mountain towns, remote valleys, high passes, and wide-open basins along the Continental Divide. Riders experience an enormous range of terrain and landscapes—from the Canadian Rockies and Montana wilderness to the high mountains of Colorado and the deserts of southern New Mexico.

GDMBR Guide: History

Great Divide Mountain Bike Route (GDMBR) was developed by the Adventure Cycling Association and released in 1998 after several years of route development and mapping. It was designed specifically as a long-distance touring route for cyclists, linking together existing backroads and public lands while keeping riders as close to the Continental Divide as practical.
In time, the GDMBR has become one of the most recognized bikepacking routes in the world. It also serves as the foundation for the Tour Divide, an ultra-endurance bikepacking event that follows much of the same corridor.

GDMBR Guide: Challenges and Planning Resources

Despite the relatively non-technical terrain, the GDMBR is still a demanding route. Riders face long climbs, high elevations, unpredictable weather, and extended stretches between services. Success on the Divide often comes down to preparation, pacing, and the ability to adapt as conditions change along the route.
For riders looking to better understand the logistics of the route—navigation, transportation, resupply, and other common planning questions—the GDMBR FAQ provides additional guidance.
When it comes to organizing the details of the ride, the GDMBR Planning Aids provide structured route data including mileage between locations, elevation gain, resupply points, and key services along the route. These tools help riders plan their trip before leaving and serve as a practical reference while traveling the route.

Map tour divide bikepacking guide TD Tour Divide Transportation Guide tour divide guide

Stats

DISTANCE

3083 Miles (4962km)

DIFFICULTY (1-10)

5-6

Elevation Gain

200,000 Feet (60,960m)

HIGHEST POINT

11,913 Feet (3631m)

TIME REQUIRED

40-60 Days

% SINGLETRACK

<1%

% UNPAVED

90%

Time of Year

June to October

Typical Daily Mileage

60–80 Miles (touring pace)

Closest Towns to Start/Finish

Jasper, AB in the North

Lordsburg, NM (Hachita is closest but just has one very small store ) and/or Columbus, NM (Alternate finish)

Number of States / Provinces

2 Canadian Provinces, 5 U.S. States

GDMBR Planning Aids

Previous Next

1 2 3 4

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!

Buy Now »

Route

Route Sections

The Great Divide Mountain Bike Route (GDMBR) travels through a wide range of terrain as it follows the Continental Divide from Canada to the U.S.–Mexico border. While the route is continuous, it’s often helpful to think of it in several geographic sections, each with its own character and challenges.

Canada

The route begins in Jasper, Alberta, and quickly enters the rugged landscapes of the Canadian Rockies. Riders encounter long climbs, dense forests, glacial rivers, and some of the most remote terrain on the entire route. Wildlife encounters are more common here than anywhere else along the Divide.

Montana

After crossing into the United States, the route continues through the mountains and valleys of western Montana. Long forest service roads dominate this section, connecting small towns and remote stretches of public land.

Idaho / Wyoming

In this section the landscape begins to open up. Riders pass through ranchland, rolling terrain, and the exposed riding of Wyoming’s Great Basin, one of the most unique environments along the entire route.

Colorado

Colorado contains some of the highest elevations on the GDMBR. Riders cross multiple mountain passes and experience some of the longest sustained climbs of the entire route.

New Mexic0

The final section of the route becomes progressively drier as riders travel south. Long distances between towns, warmer temperatures, and exposed terrain define this stretch before reaching the finish at Antelope Wells, or the alternate finish in Columbus, New Mexico.

Route Direction

One of the most common questions riders ask is which direction to ride the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route (GDMBR).

Most riders travel north to south, starting in Jasper, Alberta, and finishing in New Mexico. Seasonal weather patterns and snowpack generally make this the most practical direction for a full GDMBR ride.

Southbound riders typically encounter early-season conditions in the northern Rockies, peak summer riding through Colorado, and warmer, drier terrain in New Mexico.

While some riders choose to travel south to north, timing becomes more complicated due to snow lingering in the northern Rockies later into the summer.

Important Information

GDMBR vs Tour Divide:

The Great Divide Mountain Bike Route (GDMBR) and the Tour Divide are closely related but not the same thing. The GDMBR is the original long-distance bikepacking route developed by the Adventure Cycling Association, running from Jasper, Alberta, to Antelope Wells, New Mexico.

The Tour Divide is a self-supported endurance event that follows much of the same corridor as the GDMBR but uses its own GPX track and route variations. Unlike traditional races, the Tour Divide has no entry fees, permits, prizes, or official race organization. Riders follow a simple set of self-supported guidelines and track their progress independently.

Riders touring the GDMBR are free to ride the route at their own pace without following any of the Tour Divide guidelines.

Support The ACA

The Adventure Cycling Association (ACA) is not directly involved in the race but is the organization behind the creation of the route and its detailed maps. Their work provides the foundation for this incredible journey. Consider supporting the ACA by becoming a member. Membership is only $45 and includes various benefits, such as discounts on maps and other perks. Your support helps sustain the resources that make events like the Tour Divide possible.

As an affiliate partner, One of Seven Project earns a commission for purchases made through any product, brand logo links, or banner ads on this page. Thanks for your support!

Shop clearance deals at REI.com

MUST KNOW

Highlights Difficulties Food/Water Camping Dangers Pitfalls

Previous Next

Epic Distance:
Covering 3000+ miles from Jasper, Alberta to Antelope Wells, New Mexico, the GDMBR is one of the longest bikepacking routes in the world.
Diverse Terrain:
The route features approximately 90% off-road terrain, including gravel roads, and jeep tracks, offering a mix of challenging surfaces.
Scenic Landscapes:
The GDMBR travels through a wide range of landscapes, including the Flathead Valley in Alberta, Grand Teton National Park and the Great Divide Basin in Wyoming, Boreas and Indiana Pass (the route’s highest point at 11,913′) in Colorado, and the high desert landscapes of Polvadera Mesa and the Gila region in New Mexico.
Bear Country:
Sections of the route pass through grizzly bear habitat in the Canadian Rockies and parts of Montana, requiring riders to plan and travel with proper food storage and awareness.
Remote Conditions:
Long distances between services, unpredictable mountain weather, and extended stretches of remote terrain make careful planning essential along the route.
Iconic Stop:
Pie Town, New Mexico is a well-known stop along the route where travelers often pause for a slice of pie before continuing south toward the Mexican border.
Historical Route:
The GDMBR was developed by the Adventure Cycling Association and remains one of the most established long-distance bikepacking routes in North America.

1. Length and Endurance:
  At more than 3,000 miles in length, the GDMBR requires sustained physical endurance and mental resilience. Completing the route typically takes several weeks of continuous riding.
2. Remote Terrain:
  Large portions of the route pass through remote regions with long distances between services, requiring riders to be largely self-sufficient.
3. Variable Weather:
  Conditions along the Divide can change quickly. Riders may encounter heavy rain, cold mountain storms, snow at higher elevations, and intense heat in southern sections.
4. High Altitude:
  Several portions of the GDMBR travel through high mountain regions, particularly in Colorado, where elevations exceed 10,000 feet. Riders may experience the effects of altitude such as reduced oxygen levels, shortness of breath, fatigue, headaches, and slower recovery.
5. Rough Surfaces:
  Most of the GDMBR follows unpaved roads, including gravel, forest service roads, and jeep tracks. These surfaces can be slow, physically demanding, and mechanically taxing.
6. Bear Country:
  Northern sections of the route pass through grizzly bear habitat in the Canadian Rockies and parts of Montana, requiring careful food storage and awareness when camping.
7. Isolation:
  Extended stretches of the route have limited mobile phone coverage and few nearby services, making preparation and emergency planning important.
8. Mechanical Issues:
  Long distances between bike shops mean riders must be prepared to manage mechanical problems and carry essential repair tools and spare parts.
9. Resupply Planning:
  Food and water must be carefully planned between towns, with some segments requiring riders to carry additional supplies to reach the next resupply point.
10. Physical and Mental Fatigue:
  The sustained demands of long distances, rough surfaces, changing weather, and extended time in remote environments can lead to both physical and mental fatigue. Managing effort, rest, and daily expectations becomes an important part of completing the route.
11. Navigation:
  Following the route requires reliable navigation tools, whether using maps, GPS devices, or digital route files.
  These challenges are part of what defines the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route and why careful preparation plays such an important role in a successful ride.

Resupply Points:
Food and water resupplies are available in towns and small communities along the GDMBR. However, options can vary widely from well-stocked grocery stores to very limited convenience stores. Knowing where resupply points are located and planning accordingly is an important part of riding the route. The GDMBR Planning Aids provide maps and town-by-town breakdowns to help you plan resupply stops and distances.
Food Planning:
Because some segments of the route have long distances between towns, riders must plan food supplies carefully. Lightweight, calorie-dense foods are commonly used to maintain energy during extended stretches between resupplies.
Water Sources:
Water availability can vary depending on the region and season. Riders may rely on natural sources such as streams and rivers in some areas, while other sections require carrying water between towns or known water points. A reliable water filtration or purification system is essential.
Emergency Supplies:
Carrying extra food and water is recommended in case of delays, weather changes, or mechanical issues. Backup supplies can be especially important in remote sections of the route.

Proper planning for food and water is an important part of preparing for the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route.

Campgrounds:
The GDMBR passes through many established campgrounds located in national forests, parks, and public recreation areas. These campgrounds provide reliable overnight options and are commonly used by riders traveling the route.
Dispersed Camping:
Much of the route travels through public lands where dispersed camping is permitted. Riders can often camp outside of developed campgrounds when following local regulations and Leave No Trace principles.
Wildlife Considerations:
Northern portions of the route pass through grizzly bear habitat in the Canadian Rockies and parts of Montana. Proper food storage and campsite practices are essential to reduce wildlife encounters.
High Altitude Camping:
Some sections—especially in Colorado—place riders at elevations above 10,000 feet. Nights can be significantly colder, and altitude can affect sleep and recovery.
Water Access:
When selecting a campsite, access to water for drinking and cooking can be important. Natural sources may require filtration or purification.
Camping Gear:
A reliable shelter and sleep system are essential for multi-week travel along the Divide. Lightweight, weather-resistant gear helps manage changing weather conditions and long days on the bike. See the gear guides on this site for bikepacking equipment recommendations.
Town Camping Options:
Some towns along the route offer additional overnight options such as RV parks or small campgrounds where riders commonly stay during resupply stops. Planning resources on this site outline towns and potential overnight stops along the route.
Fire Restrictions:
Fire regulations vary widely along the Divide and are often restricted during dry seasons. Riders should check current regulations and be prepared to rely on a camp stove when fires are not permitted.
Camp Selection:
Choosing a good campsite improves comfort and safety. Look for areas with natural wind protection, good drainage, and minimal environmental impact when setting up camp.

These considerations help riders plan overnight stops and approach camping along the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route with better preparation.

Dangers:

Weather Extremes:
The Great Divide Mountain Bike Route crosses multiple climate zones from Canada to New Mexico, which means weather conditions can change quickly and without warning. Riders may encounter heavy rain, snow in higher elevations, intense summer heat, or strong winds across open basins. Always be prepared for a wide range of weather conditions and monitor forecasts whenever possible.
Wildlife Encounters:
Wildlife is part of the experience along the GDMBR. In northern sections—especially through the Canadian Rockies and northern Montana—grizzly bears and black bears are present. Proper food storage, bear spray, and safe camping practices are essential. Other wildlife such as moose, elk, and mountain lions may also be encountered along the route.
High Altitude Challenges:
Several sections of the GDMBR climb above 10,000 feet, particularly in Colorado. High elevations can bring thinner air, colder temperatures, and rapidly changing weather. Riders should be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness and pace themselves accordingly when climbing into high mountain passes.
Hypothermia:
Cold temperatures combined with rain, wind, or exhaustion can lead to hypothermia, even during summer months. This risk is especially present in northern regions and high-altitude mountain passes. Carry proper insulating layers and rain protection, and know the warning signs of hypothermia.
Wild Fires:
During dry seasons, wildfires can affect parts of the GDMBR, particularly in the western United States. Smoke, trail closures, and emergency reroutes are possible. One can use the Watch Duty app to monitor local conditions.
Riding on Roads at Night:
While much of the GDMBR follows dirt roads and remote tracks, some segments use paved or shared roads. Riding these sections at night increases risk due to reduced visibility. Use strong front and rear lights and wear reflective gear to remain visible to vehicles.

Pitfalls:

Mechanical Failures:
Bike shops are few and far between along the GDMBR. Carry essential tools, spare parts, and be able to handle basic repairs yourself.
Isolation and Remoteness:
Large sections of the route pass through remote areas with little to no cell service or nearby help. Riders must be self-sufficient and prepared for extended time between services.
Emergency Communication:
A satellite communicator or GPS tracker is strongly recommended due to the route’s remote nature.
Navigation Challenges:
The GDMBR is not marked, so riders need reliable GPS navigation and solid route awareness to stay on track.
Physical and Mental Fatigue:
The length, climbing, and daily mileage can wear riders down. Managing rest, nutrition, and pacing is essential to keep moving forward.
Water Availability:
Water sources can be limited or far apart, especially in southern sections. Carry enough capacity and use a reliable filtration system.
Food and Resupply Issues:
Some stretches between towns are long. Plan food carefully and check store hours to avoid running short.
Strenuous Terrain:
Steep climbs, rough roads, and long days in the saddle make the route physically demanding.
Environmental Exposure:
Long days outdoors mean exposure to sun, wind, rain, and cold. Proper clothing, sun protection, and hydration are important.
Trip Costs:
Food, lodging, gear, and repairs can add up over the course of the ride. Budget accordingly.
International Travel Considerations:
Riders traveling internationally should ensure passports and travel documents are in order before starting.

GDMBR Navigation & Tracking

Safety Tracking Devices

Because much of the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route (GDMBR) travels through remote areas with limited cell service, many riders choose to carry a satellite tracking or emergency communication device. These devices allow friends and family to follow your progress and provide a way to call for help in an emergency.

SPOT trackers are commonly used by riders because they allow location tracking and basic messaging through satellite networks. Devices like Garmin inReach offer similar functionality along with two-way messaging and emergency SOS capabilities.

If you plan to carry a SPOT device, make sure it’s properly configured before leaving. Our SPOT Tracker Setup Guide walks through the full setup process and explains how to configure your device for tracking and safety while riding the GDMBR.

Some riders also choose to rent or purchase a satellite tracker specifically for the trip. Regardless of the device you choose, understanding how it works and ensuring it’s configured correctly before starting the route is essential.

GPX File:

The GPX file can be purchased from the ACA’s website. It’s uses Ride with GPS. Once can also get paper maps there too.

Route Updates / Corrections:

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

EXTERNAL RESOURCES

WEBSITES

MAPS / BOOKS / APPS

ACA Maps (These maps differ slightly from the official race route, follow your GPS)
Temporary Closures
GAIA
Book – Just Ride
Book – Cycling the Great Divide
Book – A Dream Worth Living
Video – Ride the Divide
Book – Eat, Sleep, Ride
Book – Dividing the Great
Watch Duty App – tracks wildfires

More Helpful GDMBR Resources

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

GDMBR Planning Aids: Resupply, Mileage, and More

Previous Next

1 2 3 4

Checkout our full line of GDMBR Planning Aids at our store. Choose from NOBO and SOBO / US standard and metric.

GDMBR FAQ

Still have questions about the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route (GDMBR)? Then check out our GDMBR FAQ to find the answers.

Bikepacking bike next to the Coney Summit sign, the highest point on the Colorado Trail Race (CTR), where altitude sickness can be a challenge.

Bikepacking, Bikepacking Resource, CTR Resources, Featured Bikepacking Resource, New

CHECKOUT ALL OUR GUIDES

guide, planning aid, coconino 250, bikepacking, resource - Planning Aids for Bikepacking and Hiking

Support the Project

Simply clicking on the links below with our affiliates supports the Project.

Outdoor Research - Technical Outdoor Gear & Apparel

Amazon - Clothes, Electronics, Sports Gear & Apparel, Automotive, Toys, Books, Music

Platypus hydration evolved - hydration packs - filters - water storage - about -FINISH TIME CONTEST

Jefe Velo bikepacking gear and accessories

As an affiliate partner, One of Seven Project earns a commission for purchases made through any product, brand logo links, or banner ads on this page.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Thanks for your support!

GDMBR GUIDE - BIKEPACKING

Great Divide Mountain Bike Route (GDMBR) Guide

Table of Contents:

Share this entry

Popular Resources:

Overview

GDMBR Guide: An Overview of the Route

GDMBR Guide: History

GDMBR Guide: Challenges and Planning Resources

Stats

Time of Year

Typical Daily Mileage

Closest Towns to Start/Finish

Number of States / Provinces

GDMBR Planning Aids

Route

Route Sections

Canada

Montana

Idaho / Wyoming

Colorado

New Mexic0

Route Direction

Important Information

GDMBR vs Tour Divide:

Support The ACA

MUST KNOW

Dangers:

Pitfalls:

GDMBR Navigation & Tracking

Safety Tracking Devices

GPX File:

Route Updates / Corrections:

EXTERNAL RESOURCES

More Helpful GDMBR Resources

GDMBR Planning Aids: Resupply, Mileage, and More

GDMBR FAQ

CHECKOUT ALL OUR GUIDES

Support the Project