TOUR DIVIDE FAQ

The Tour Divide FAQ is your comprehensive guide to understanding this iconic bikepacking route. Covering over 2,700 miles from Banff, Alberta, to Antelope Wells, New Mexico, the Tour Divide challenges riders with rugged terrain, long distances, and unpredictable conditions. This Tour Divide FAQ addresses common concerns, including navigation, resupply strategies, transportation logistics, and essential planning tips for success.

For more detailed information, check out our Tour Divide Resource Page. It’s your go-to hub for everything Tour Divide, with resources like Tour Divide Resupply, Planning Guides, Transportation Tips, and more. The Tour Divide FAQ will help you prepare for every aspect of your journey—start exploring now and turn your Tour Divide dream into reality!

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TRAVEL TO AND FROM

TOUR DIVIDE FAQ

Travel logistics are a critical part of planning for the Tour Divide, and this section of the Tour Divide FAQ is here to help. From finding the best ways to get to Banff, Alberta, to navigating transportation options after reaching Antelope Wells, New Mexico, we’ve compiled answers to the most common questions. For detailed guidance, check out our Tour Divide Transportation Guide to ensure your travel plans are seamless and stress-free. Whether you’re flying with your bike, arranging shuttle services, or looking for local accommodations, this guide has you covered.

Q: What airports are best to fly in and out of?

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

More Travel Help

Tour Divide Transportation Guide

Q: What options are there for getting from Calgary to Banff?

A: One can use a shuttle service like the Banff Airporter (usually offers TD riders a discount) / Sundog Tours or ride.

Use the link to the right to go to the TD Transportation Guide for more on these options.

Q: Can I ride from the Calgary airport to Banff?

A: Yes you can, most people suggest riding Hwy. 1A, but if you do a Google search and select the cycling option, you’ll find two alternative routes that avoid the highway. The distance is roughly 84 miles (135 km).

Use the link to the right to go to the TD Transportation Guide for more on these options.

Q: What’s the best way to get from Antelope Wells to El Paso?

A: What is best may vary depending on the individual. The options are take the train* from Lordsburg, NM, use a shuttle service, and or ride. It’s about 175 miles (282 km).

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

Use the link to the right to go to the TD Transportation Guide for more on these options.

Q: If I want to ship my bike, what are my options?

A: You can contact a local shop in Banff 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.

Q: Do most people ship or fly with their bike?

A: Most people choose to fly with their bike.

Q: What do I do with my bike box at the airport after rebuilding my bike?

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.”

Q: Where can I get a box to ship/fly my bike after I finish?

A: If you finish in Banff, 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.

Q: I’m flying from outside North America, what do I need to have for paperwork (Passport / Vivas)?

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.

Use the link to the right to go to the TD Transportation Guide for more on these options.

Q: Do I need a returned flight booked as a non US citizen?

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.

Use the link to the right to go to the TD Transportation Guide for more on these options.

Q: What address do I use for the forms mentioned above?

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

LOGISTICS

TOUR DIVIDE FAQ

Mastering the logistics of the Tour Divide is essential for a successful ride, and this section of the Tour Divide FAQ breaks it all down. From planning daily mileage to organizing food, water, and resupply strategies, we’ll answer the most pressing questions to help you stay prepared on and off the bike. For additional support, explore our Tour Divide Planning Guide to streamline your preparation and ride with confidence!

Q: How / When can I register?

A: One can send a letter of intent on or after the winter solstice to tourdivide@gmail.com.

More Logistics Help

Tour Divide Planning Guide

Q: When is the event?

A: The TD starts on the second Friday of June at 7 am.

Q: Where can I find the GPX file?

A: Topo Fusion, but the newest file doesn’t come out until a week or two before the event. So use the previous years for planning purposes until then.

Q: How does Spot Tracking work?

A: One or two weeks before the start, Trackleaders will send an email out to everyone who sent in a Letter of Intent. Said email will contain all the information you need.

Riders have two options. #1 register their own device (SPOT, InReach, or Zoleo), or #2 they can rent a SPOT Gen3 from Trackleaders.

Rental devices are available for pick up at the YWCA in Banff, (and do NOT come with batteries, one set will be enough for most riders to reach the finish, two is best).

The email sent by Trackleaders has details on set up, testing your device to ensure it’s tracking on the site, profile set up, rentals and how to return rentals.

Your SPOT should be set to 5 minute intervals for tracking and 10 for InReach.

Q: Where can I find the rules?

A: The rules can be found here: https://tourdivide.org/the_rules.

Q: When is the best time to start the route outside of the event?

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

Q: Where do I find the Unofficial Starters List?

A: Enter details in this FORM here: https://forms.gle/G7BgNHiHCT78hbWn7. The Sheet showing responses is here: https://docs.google.com/…/1B…/edit….

Q: Where can I stay in Banff?

A: The unofficial base camp in Banff is the YWCA. Note it can be noisy. Other than here, there are multiple hotels, Air B&B, and camping options. Book early as Banff is a busy tourist destination and things fill up fast.

Q: Where can I stay near Antelope Wells?

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

Q: What is the average cost?

A: The average answer is $1-$4999 USD.

ROUTE

TOUR DIVIDE FAQ

Understanding the route is a key component of preparing for the Tour Divide, and this section of the Tour Divide FAQ covers everything you need to know. From the starting point in Banff, Alberta, to the finish line 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 Tour Divide Planning Aids provide detailed mileage, elevation gain/loss, resupply options, pavement miles, and more to ensure you’re fully prepared for the journey ahead.

Q: How long is the Tour Divide?

A: The most common answer is 2745 mi (4418 km). The 10k GPX file in 2024 was 2665 mi (4289 km). While Track Leaders showed 2695.4 mi (4338 km).

More Route Help

Tour Divide Planning Aids

Q: What is the terrain like?

A: The route is mainly made up of dirt roads making up about 66 % (1760 +/- miles) of the route. The remaining portion is paved 34% (900 +/- miles). There used to be about 1 % single track but with the addition of the two new CDT section that number is now higher.

Q: What is the total elevation gain?

A: The total elevation gain is 169,355 feet (51,619m) based off the 10k GPX file.

Q: Which section has the most elevation gain?

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

Feet
Canada
Colorado
Montana
New Mexico
Wyoming
Idaho

Feet
22256
42127
47919
35076
19814
2278

Miles
260.7
538.9
697.9
666
425.9
75.5

FT per Mile
85.4
78.2
68.7
52.7
46.5
30.2

Meters
6783
12840
14605
10691
6039
694

Kilometers
419.6
867.1
1122.9
1071.6
685.3
121.5

M per KM
16.2
14.8
13.0
10.0
8.8
5.7

Q: What is the highest point on the route?

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

Q: Are there any elevation profiles?

A: Shane Wighton’s ’15 profiles are still some of the best despite the route changes since then.

Q: Where can I find a snow level report?

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.

Q: What temperature range will I encounter on the route?

Banff 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.

Q: Where do I find the best maps for the route?

A: Adventure Cycling Association GDMBR maps are the best physical option. As far as digital goes there are many options out there. A quick search on Ride with GPS will result in multiple options or you can make your own with the GPX file. The Project has it’s own Ride with GPS maps that are made to compliment our Planning Aids.

Q: Where can I find cue sheets for the route?

A: Cue Sheets are available from the ACA. Alternates route cue sheets are also available online.

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RESUPPLY

TOUR DIVIDE FAQ

Resupply planning is one of the most important aspects of preparing for the Tour Divide, and this section of the Tour Divide FAQ answers your key questions. From finding food and water along the route to identifying bike shops and other critical services, knowing where and when to resupply can make or break your ride. The Project’s Tour Divide Planning Aids are an invaluable tool, offering detailed information on resupply locations, water sources, bike shops, and more. Start planning today with the Project’s Planning Aids to ensure you’re fully prepared for every challenge along the way.

Q: What are the resupply options like?

A: Resupply options vary size and distances between them. Some are very limited, while other are great. Most are okay. This is way planning goes a long way.

Use the link to the right to go to the TD Resupply Guide for more on these options.

More Resupply Help

Tour Divide Resupply Guide

Q: Can one ship themselves a package?

A: The rules do allow riders to pre-ship themselves a package to the post office. Using “general delivery”.

Tour Divide Planning Aids

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Click “Buy Now” button below to visit 1/7 Store with larger examples and more details.

Our Tour Divide 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.
Tour Divide Maps: Explore our companion Ride with GPS maps to visualize the route, identify POIs, and download files for offline navigation.

Data Sheet – $25.00 + tax (CO only)

Town List, Mileage Chart and Elevation Gain Chart only available as part of Big Bundle

Small Bundle – $40.00 + tax (CO only) *You save $10 when you bundle!

Big Bundle – $60.00 + tax (CO only) *You save $20 when you bundle!

*Available in Standard and Metric Units

Buy Now »

BIKE / GEAR

TOUR DIVIDE FAQ

Choosing the right bike and gear for the Tour Divide can feel overwhelming, so this section of the Tour Divide FAQ focuses on answering a few of the most common questions. From which bike type is best to key equipment choices, we’ll cover the basics to get you started. For more detailed insights and answers to a wider range of gear options, check out the Project’s Tour Divide Rider Survey, where past participants share their setups, gear choices, and firsthand experiences. Have your own Tour Divide experience to share? Take the survey and help future riders make informed decisions!

Q: What type of bike is best?

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

More Gear Help

Tour Divide Rider Survey

Q: How much suspension?

A: Over half have no front suspension and over 90% have no rear suspension.

Q: Most popular wheel and tire size ?

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

Q: Most popular drivetrain set up?

A: The most popular drivetrain set up is 1x up front (32th), and 12 speed in rear.

Q: Most popular pedal type?

A: The most popular pedal type is Clipless.

Q: How many people use aero bars?

A: Over half the riders use aero bars.

If you want to see more I suggest you look at The Project’s Tour Divide Rider Survey.

CAMPING

TOUR DIVIDE FAQ

Camping is a key aspect of the Tour Divide experience, and this section of the Tour Divide FAQ answers some of the most popular questions. From the most common shelter choices and water-carrying capacities to bear safety and food storage, we’ll provide the basics to get you started. For even more insights and a deeper look at how riders approach camping, check out the Project’s Tour Divide Rider Survey for firsthand responses from past participants.

Q: What is the most popular shelter of choice?

A: Tents are the most popular shelter option with a bivy being the second.

More Camping Help

Tour Divide Rider Survey Results

Q: How much water carrying capacity do most have?

A: 4-6 liters is the most common answer.

Q: Do I need bear spray and where can I get it?

A: Many will say you need it, ultimately it’s up to you. You will be riding through grizzly country. Usually riders are offered a discount at the local outdoor shop in Banff, (Atmosphere and/or Monod Sports in Banff for TD racers. 10-15%).

Q: What does everyone do with their food at night?

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.

Q: Do most camp or use hotels?

A: Where one sleeps at night depends on many factors. Weather, pace, timing, budget, and more. That said, those racing typically camp (where ever they feel like it), more casual riders will stay in some hotels. Be sure to respect private property.

CLOTHING

TOUR DIVIDE FAQ

Choosing the right clothing for the Tour Divide can be overwhelming, with countless options and personal preferences to consider. Rather than try to answer every question, this section of the Tour Divide FAQ directs you to the Project’s Tour Divide Rider Survey for insights from past participants on clothing choices and layering strategies. 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

Tour Divide Rider Survey Results

ELECTRONICS

TOUR DIVIDE FAQ

Electronics play a crucial role in the Tour Divide, from navigation to lighting and charging solutions. This section of the Tour Divide FAQ answers some of the most popular questions, such as the best GPS options, how to keep your devices charged, and the most common lighting systems. For even more insights, explore the Project’s Tour Divide Rider Survey or dive into our guide on Bikepacking Navigation to ensure you’re fully equipped for the journey.

Q: What is the best GPS?

A: The most common option is the Garmin eTrex series.

More Electronics Help

Q: How does one keep their electronics charged?

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.

Q: What is the most popular lighting system?

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

SAFETY

TOUR DIVIDE FAQ

Safety is a key concern for anyone tackling the Tour Divide, and this section of the Tour Divide FAQ addresses some of the most common questions. From deciding whether to carry a bike lock to understanding the importance of lights and preparing for potential wildlife encounters, we’ll cover the essentials to help you stay safe.

Ultimately, riders are responsible for their own safety, and good decision-making is critical throughout the journey. This includes being prepared with basic first aid knowledge, understanding your body’s limits, recognizing signs of injury or fatigue, and making sound choices in challenging situations. For more insights, explore our Most Common Bikepacking Injuries resource to better prepare yourself for the unexpected.

Q: Do I need to carry a bike lock?

A: Most don’t as the areas the route travels through are pretty small and crime is not much of an issue.

More Tour Divide Help

Tour Divide Planning Guide

Q: Do I need lights?

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

Q: Do I need to worry about animals?

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.

Conclusion

Tour Divide FAQ

The Tour Divide FAQ is designed to provide you with the essential knowledge needed to conquer this iconic bikepacking route. From planning your travel and logistics to selecting the right gear, resupply strategies, and ensuring your safety on the trail, this guide covers it all. With over 2,700 miles of challenging terrain and countless decisions to make along the way, preparation is the key to success.

We understand that there may be additional questions not covered in this FAQ. If you have a question or think there’s an important topic we’ve missed, we’d love to hear from you! Please use our Contact Page to reach out and share your feedback.

For even more in-depth resources, be sure to visit our Tour Divide Resource Page. Whether you’re looking for detailed route insights, tips for camping and resupply, or guidance on electronics and clothing, our resources have you covered. Start planning today and make your Tour Divide adventure a reality!

More Helpful TD Resources

Everything you need to plan a bikepacking trip on the Tour Divide.

Tour Divide Planning Aids: Resupply, Mileage, and More

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

Tour Divide: My Prove Triple Crown Bikepacking Gear

A detailed look at what I used on the Tour Divide, what worked and what didn’t.

Tour Divide Gear: What Worked Well and What’s Even Better

In depth look at what I would bring for gear and why, Tour Divide | What Worked Well and What’s Even Better.

Tour Divide Rider Survey: Essential Gear Insights for New Riders

Curios to know what gear other riders used to get to the finish line? Checkout our Rider Surveys to find out what works or to take the survey yourself.

Ultimate Guide to Tour Divide:

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TOUR DIVIDE FAQ

Table of Contents:

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TRAVEL TO AND FROM

More Travel Help

LOGISTICS

More Logistics Help

ROUTE

More Route Help

RESUPPLY

More Resupply Help

Tour Divide Planning Aids

BIKE / GEAR

More Gear Help

CAMPING

More Camping Help

CLOTHING

More Clothing Help

ELECTRONICS

More Electronics Help

SAFETY

More Tour Divide Help

Conclusion

More Helpful TD Resources

Tour Divide Planning Aids: Resupply, Mileage, and More

Tour Divide: My Prove Triple Crown Bikepacking Gear

Tour Divide Gear: What Worked Well and What’s Even Better

Tour Divide Rider Survey: Essential Gear Insights for New Riders

Ultimate Guide to Tour Divide:

Checkout our bikepacking resource page for more planning help.

CHECKOUT ALL OUR GUIDES

Support the Project