Tour Divide Planning Guide: 7 Steps to Plan Your Adventure
EASY TO FOLLOW PLANNING STEPS TO GET YOU ON THE TOUR DIVIDE.

Tour Divide Planning Guide: 7 Steps to Plan Your Adventure

Planning for the Tour Divide can seem overwhelming; however, this Tour Divide Planning Guide breaks the process into 7 essential steps to get you started. Whether you’re new to bikepacking or a seasoned rider, this guide simplifies planning and connects you to essential resources like gear lists, resupply tips, and transportation advice.

Effective planning is essential and can significantly impact the outcome of your race or tour. The more preparation you do beforehand and the more information you have during the race, the better off you’ll be. Bottom line: DO YOUR HOMEWORK!

I’ve compiled everything I learned from the Tour Divide, CTR, and AZT into this 7-Step Planning Guide for racing or touring the Tour Divide. I hope this guide, along with the accompanying posts and external links, provides you with almost all the information you need. Additionally, I offer detailed Tour Divide Planning Aids to further enhance your preparation and planning efforts.

While I’ve done a lot of the legwork for you, it’s important to do your own in-depth research to further improve your chances and the outcome of your trip. If I missed anything, please let me know, and I’ll add or correct it. Thanks!

Popular Resources:

Bikepacking Resources

Planning Aids

Bikepacking Gear

Rider Survey's

STEP 1: RACE OR TOUR

Tour Divide Planning Guide: Should You Race or Tour?

Deciding whether to race or tour the Tour Divide is a crucial first step in your preparation. Furthermore, this Tour Divide Planning Guide provides insights into both approaches to help you make an informed decision.

RACING PROS:

Challenge and Achievement: Racing the Tour Divide offers a significant physical and mental challenge, providing a sense of accomplishment upon completion.
Competitive Spirit: For those who enjoy competition, racing can be an exciting way to push personal limits and compete against others.
Community and Camaraderie: Racing often fosters a strong sense of community among participants, with opportunities to meet like-minded individuals and form lasting connections.
Focus on Efficiency: Racing encourages efficiency in all aspects of bikepacking, from route planning to gear selection, honing skills that can be valuable for future adventures.
Personal Growth: Overcoming the challenges of racing can lead to personal growth, increased confidence, and a better understanding of one’s capabilities.

TOURING PROS:

Flexible Pace: Touring allows riders to set their own pace, taking time to enjoy the scenery, rest when needed, and explore interesting areas along the route.

Lower Physical Demand: While still challenging, touring at a more relaxed pace reduces the physical and mental strain compared to racing.
Enhanced Experience: Touring provides more opportunities to interact with local communities, appreciate the natural beauty, and immerse oneself in the journey.
Safety and Preparedness: A slower pace allows for better management of risks, more thorough resupply planning, and increased safety.
Customization: Riders can customize their itinerary, making detours to visit attractions or adjust their route based on personal preferences and conditions.

RACING CONS:

Intense Physical Demand: Racing the Tour Divide is extremely physically demanding, requiring peak fitness and endurance.
Time Pressure: The race format imposes time constraints, which can add stress and limit opportunities to enjoy the scenery and explore interesting locations.
Higher Risk: The fast pace and push for efficiency can increase the risk of injury, mechanical issues, and other hazards.
Limited Resupply Options: Racing may limit the ability to thoroughly plan and utilize resupply points, potentially leading to food and water shortages.
Less Flexibility: The need to adhere to a strict schedule leaves little room for unexpected delays or changes in plans.

TOURING CONS:

Longer Duration: Touring takes more time, which may be a constraint for those with limited availability.
Logistical Complexity: Extended tours require more comprehensive planning for accommodations, resupplies, and potential route changes.
Increased Costs: The longer duration and potential for more frequent stops can increase the overall cost of the trip.
Possible Isolation: Depending on the chosen pace and stops, touring may result in less interaction with other riders and the bikepacking community.
Maintenance and Wear: The longer time on the trail increases the likelihood of encountering bike maintenance issues and wear on gear.
Slightly higher risk: There are less people and support if you get injured or have a bike issues.

Final Thoughts

Both racing and touring the Tour Divide offer unique experiences and challenges, and the best choice depends on individual preferences, goals, and capabilities.

STEP 2: PICK A DATE

Tour Divide Planning Guide: Choose Your Best Start Date

Choosing the right start date for your Tour Divide adventure is more than just marking a day on the calendar; instead, it’s about aligning with weather conditions and your goals.While the second Friday in June marks the official Grand Depart for racers, those planning to tour have a broader window of opportunity. Therefore, understanding weather patterns and your personal preferences is essential to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.

RACE

The race always starts on the second Friday in June.

2nd Friday of June (Banff, AB – YMCA)

TOUR

If racing isn’t your style and you prefer more flexibility, touring the Tour Divide might be the perfect choice for you. Typically, the ideal weather window for the Tour Divide extends from June to mid-October. However, snow can appear at any time along the route. Therefore, it’s crucial to prepare for all conditions, no matter when you embark on your journey.

STEP 3: WHICH DIRECTION TO GO?

Tour Divide Planning Guide: Decide Between Northbound or Southbound

Deciding the direction of your ride is a crucial part of Tour Divide planning. Whether you choose to ride southbound (SOBO) or northbound (NOBO), each option comes with its own set of advantages and challenges. Therefore, understanding the nuances of both directions can help you make an informed choice.

NORTH TO SOUTH (Canada to Mexico):

PROS:

Warmer Weather Progression: Starting in Banff in June allows riders to follow the warming weather as they move south, avoiding the early spring chill.
Popular Direction: SOBO is the traditional direction for the Tour Divide race, providing a sense of camaraderie and community with other riders.
Logistics: Easier to start with the Tour Divide Grand Depart, which offers a set start date and community support.

CONS:

Physical Demands: The start is harder in the north vs starting from the south.
Weather: Starting in the north can mean snow and early season rains making progress tough.
Crowded Start: The start in Banff can be crowded with many riders beginning at the same time, leading to congestion.
Heat in the South: Reaching the southern sections in summer can result in extreme heat, particularly in New Mexico.

SOUTH TO NORTH (Mexico to Canada)

PROS:

Physical Demands: Starting in the south is an easier start.
Logistics: More convenient finish (getting to airport).
Cooler Weather in the South: Starting in the warmer south and progressing northwards allows riders to enjoy cooler temperatures in New Mexico and Colorado.
Less Congestion: Fewer riders travel NOBO, leading to a more solitary and peaceful experience.
Avoid Heat: Avoiding the extreme summer heat of the southern sections by starting there earlier in the season.

CONS:

Logistical Complexity: Starting in Antelope Wells, NM, is more remote and less convenient for travel logistics compared to Banff.
Physical Demands: Finish in the north means more climbing at the end of your trip.
Less Congestion: Fewer riders travel NOBO, can mean long days and extended loneliness.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the direction for your Tour Divide journey depends on your preferences for weather, terrain, crowd levels, and logistical convenience. Each direction offers unique challenges and rewards, so consider these factors carefully when planning your adventure.

Tour Divide Planning Aids

Welcome to The Project’s Planning Aids, designed to bridge the gap left by the lack of high-quality planning tools within bikepacking. As a Triple Crown thru-hiker, I’m accustomed to comprehensive planning resources, and I noticed that bikepacking needed similar quality tools. That’s why I developed these resources to make your Tour Divide adventure as smooth and well-prepared as possible.

Our 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.

Each tool serves a unique purpose to support your planning and navigation needs.

Explore our offerings to find the perfect combination for your needs and get ready to conquer the Tour Divide! Don’t forget to checkout our online Tour Divide Resources as well.

Craig, I wanted to let you know that your bikepacking guides are incredibly well done and useful.

Jerry O.

BUNDLES DATA SHEET / TOWN LIST MILEAGE / ELEVATION GAIN CHARTS

BUNDLES

Small Bundles:

Big Bundles:

1 2 3 4

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

One package including our two most popular planning aids.

Data Sheet
Town List

1 2 3

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

One package including all of our planning aids.

Data Sheet
Town List
Mileage Chart
Elevation Gain Chart

Available in both SOBO and NOBO versions, as well as both US Standard and Metric units.

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!

Buy Now »

If you’re looking to ride the ACA’s GDMBR from Jasper to Antelope Wells you can find it here.

DATA SHEETS / TOWN LISTS

Data Sheets:

Town Lists:

1 2 3

Gives you the most information of any planning aid.

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

Key POI.
Elevation / Pop of POI.
Mileage numbers.
Distance to next.
Elevation +/-.
Max & Min. elevation between POI.
Pavement sections.
Key water sources.
Shows bike shops.
Resupply options.
Important notes.
Elevation profile.
Finish Target Times.

1 2 3 4 5

Similar to the Data Sheet, with slightly less information, but displayed showing cumulative mileage and elevation gain.

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

Key POI.
Mileage.
Distance on/off trail.
Important notes about POI.
Cumulative distances to up coming POI.
Elevation Gain to reach up coming POI.
Key water sources.
Shows bike shops.
Finish Target Times added.

Data Sheet ONLY available in SOBO version, as well as both US Standard and Metric units.

Town Lists are ONLY available as part of the Small or Big Bundles.

Data Sheet – $25 + Tax (CO only)

Buy Now »

If you’re looking to ride the ACA’s GDMBR from Jasper to Antelope Wells you can find it here.

MILEAGE / ELEVATION GAIN CHARTS

Mileage Charts:

Elevation Gain Charts:

1 2 3 4 5

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

Quickly find the total mileage between any two POI along the route.

Shows bike shops.
Works for both directions.
Key water sources.

1 2 3 4 5

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

Quickly find the total elevation gain between any two POI along the route.
- Shows bike shops.
- Works for both directions.
- Key water sources.

The Mileage and Elevation Gain Charts are ONLY available as part of the Big Bundle.

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

Buy Now »

If you’re looking to ride the ACA’s GDMBR from Jasper to Antelope Wells you can find it here.

STEP 4: SETTING UP A RESUPPLY / ITINERARY SCHEDULE

Tour Divide Planning Guide: Plan Your Food and Water Resupplies

Preparing a resupply and itinerary plan is essential for success on the Tour Divide. Whether you’re racing or touring, a clear schedule helps you stay on track and avoid unexpected challenges. By planning ahead, you’ll ensure a smoother ride through remote stretches of the route.

Creating an itinerary is a valuable step for both racers and tourers tackling the Tour Divide. Although it may be less critical for racers, it provides a practical guide to keep you on track and meet your target finish time. It also ensures that you’re ready for post-ride logistics, such as catching your flight home.

For a deeper dive into itinerary items you might not thought of, my post, “Bikepacking: Pre-Trip Considerations,” covers essential factors like planning strategies, gear, and personal health considerations. In addition, it includes tips for post-trip recovery and preparation.

To enhance your planning, check out our Tour Divide Guide for maps, profiles, and road surface data—essential tools for building a detailed and effective itinerary.

Itinerary planner for bikepacking & thru-hiking / hiking

This spreed sheet is available on Google Docs, Please go to “Edit”, then select, ” Copy”. When pasting use Control(Command) – Shift – Paste or it won’t work. You’ll have to adjust column sizes. Then make all the changes you like! Happy planning and trails.

Pro-Tip

List your target day and time on your resupply/itinerary page. Think about adding some other check points, that way you can keep on target.

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!

STEP 5: GEAR

Tour Divide Planning Guide: Pack Smart for Your Ride

Packing the right gear for the Tour Divide can make or break your experience. While every rider’s needs differ, it’s vital to focus on reliability and comfort. By testing your setup thoroughly, you’ll minimize surprises and maximize confidence on the trail.

Choosing the right gear for the Tour Divide is crucial to a successful ride. While this guide connects you with essential resources to refine your choices and avoid unnecessary weight, your personal testing is key. Depending on your pace, you could spend two weeks or more on the Divide, encountering every type of weather imaginable. With countless hours in the saddle, it’s essential to use gear that is reliable, thoroughly tested, and comfortable. Therefore, be sure to test your setup with multiple Shakedown Rides..

I’ve compiled a comprehensive page detailing the gear I used for the Tour Divide, as well as the Colorado Trail and Arizona Trail. My most recent post updates this list with gear recommendations if I were to tackle the Tour Divide again. Additionally, it includes tips, what worked and didn’t, and what I would do differently next time.

Bikepacking Gear List / Photo - Tour Divide Planning Guide - Arizona Trail Planning Guide - tour divide guide Ultimate Bikepacking and Hiking Resource

STEP 6: TRAINING

Tour Divide Planning Guide: Train for Endurance and Success

raining for the Tour Divide requires more than physical fitness—it demands mental toughness and strategic preparation. While every rider’s approach may differ, focusing on endurance, strength, and mental resilience will set you up for success. By prioritizing these areas, you’ll be ready for the challenges ahead.

When preparing for a race or tour as demanding as the Tour Divide, training goes beyond physical conditioning. As the saying goes, “It’s 90% mental and 10% physical.” To tackle the Tour Divide successfully, focus on both physical endurance and mental resilience.

Here are key areas to focus on:

Build Endurance: Mimic the sustained effort required by gradually increasing your mileage. Incorporate back-to-back long rides on weekends and multi-day rides to prepare for consecutive days of cycling.
Strengthen Your Core: A strong core helps with rough terrain and long hours in the saddle. Add planks, Russian twists, and leg raises to your routine. For example, a conditioning class was one of the best decisions I made pre-race.
Ride on Similar Terrain: Train on trails and rugged terrain to adapt to the Divide’s conditions. This improves bike handling skills and prepares you for technical challenges.
Practice Bikepacking: Get used to riding with a loaded bike. Practice packing and unpacking efficiently to save time and learn what works.
Nutrition and Hydration: Experiment with foods and hydration strategies during training. Remember, you may rely on gas stations or small stores, so learn to fuel effectively with limited options.
Mental Preparation: Build mental toughness by setting small goals, managing discomfort, and staying motivated through difficult stretches.
Rest and Recovery: Rest days are essential for avoiding burnout and injuries. Listen to your body and allow time for recovery.

By focusing on these areas, you’ll build the endurance, strength, and resilience needed to tackle the Tour Divide successfully.

Tour Divide Rider Survey

The Project conducts an ongoing rider survey to assist new riders in selecting the right gear for the Tour Divide. Embarking on an adventure like the Tour Divide can be daunting, and the planning process overwhelming. We hope this survey will aid new riders in their preparation and execution of their Tour Divide ride, ensuring they are better equipped for their adventure.

If you haven’t taken the Tour Divide Rider Survey yet, we encourage you to participate through the links below.

***Please pay close attention to the examples provided for questions requiring typed answers. If responses are not entered exactly as shown in the examples, I will need to correct them, which can skew the results. Thank you in advance!

Take Survey 1

Covers: bikes, suspension, tires & wheels, drivetrain, and Components.

Survey 1 Results

Take Survey 2

Covers: navigation planning, camping, logistic/travel, clothes, and more.

Survey 2 Results

STEP 7: Do a Shakedown Ride

Tour Divide Planning Guide: Test Everything Before You Start

A successful Tour Divide starts with a thorough Shakedown Ride. By testing your loaded bike setup, you’ll uncover potential issues, refine your gear choices, and gain confidence before heading to the start line. Don’t leave anything to chance—test everything.

Testing your setup is crucial. Don’t assume that just packing your gear and checking tightness will suffice. Take your loaded bike out for a ride to understand how it handles, identify rattles or rubs, and discover what doesn’t work.

An untested setup can lead to unnecessary stress during your race or tour. Therefore, invest time in a thorough Shakedown Ride to eliminate potential issues and become accustomed to riding with a loaded bike.

Here are key tips for testing your setup:

Iterate and Adjust: Perfection doesn’t happen on the first try. Experiment with different configurations to find what works best.
Balance Your Load: Ensure your gear is evenly distributed to maintain stability and control.
Address Uncertainties: Resolve any doubts about components or setup before heading out.
Test Electronics: Check your GPS and other electronics to ensure reliability. Additionally, learn how to troubleshoot potential issues.
Secure Bottles: Bottles mounted on forks and down tubes are prone to falling off or rubbing. Verify they’re securely attached to avoid losing essential water capacity.

By thoroughly testing and refining your setup, you’ll be better prepared for the challenges ahead.

More Helpful TD Resources

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

This Tour Divide Planning Guide is just the start—use it alongside our Planning Aids, Gear List, Resupply Guide, and more to fully prepare for the Tour Divide.

Planning Aids for the Tour Divide

1 2

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

Essential Gear List for the Tour Divide

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

If I Rode the Tour Divide Series

In depth look at what I would bring for gear and why, if I rode the Tour Divide again.

Rider Insights from the Tour Divide Survey

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: Route, Resources, and More

CTR, TD, AZTR, Colorado Trail Race, Tour Divide, Arizona Traill Race Transportation Guide

Bikepacking, TD Featured Resources, tour divide

Checkout our bikepacking resource page for more planning help.

Bikepacking Resources

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