When it comes to international travel you have some hoops to jump through depending on which country you live in and are going to.  US citizens only need their passport to fly into Canada.  Those from countries other than the US, need to apply and get an eTA.

Entering the United States for US residents is as easy as having a Passport Book or Passport Card.  Those from one of 38 approved countries can apply for an ESTA.  If you don’t live in one of those 38 approved countries you must fill out a B-1 or B-2 Visitor Visa in advance.

The jury appears to be split on on whether one needs a return flight when entering the US.  Some racers had return flights and were never ask to show proof.  In the end it really comes down to which border guard you get and other unknown factors, in regards to your border experience.

If you Google the question of return flights you’ll find the following in regards to using a Visa Waiver Program (VWP):

Passengers travelling to the U.S. under the VWP must have a valid ticket for a confirmed return or onward flight from the U.S. within 90 days or arrival in the U.S. , prior to entering the U.S. An onward flights to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda and/or the Caribbean is insufficient to satisfy this requirement, unless the passenger is a lawful resident of one of those countries.

Almost everyone has to fly to get to the Tour Divide.  This means boxing up your bike for flying or shipping it to the start.  You can ship your bike to Canada but the potential for it to get stuck in customs is not worth the risk.  It is a much better idea to fly with your bike.

Plane

Airlines charge between $50 and $150 (some international airlines are free). They also require you keep the combine size (length plus width plus height) of your bike box at 62 or less inches, or additional charges may apply.

Similar to planning your resupply and water resources, it pays to do your homework when flying.  You can dig up “hacks” on the internet for avoiding to pay for traveling with your bike.  With all the airlines out there, I’ll leave it up to you to do that research yourself.

Ship

Shipping your bike means flexibility.  Here are the three most common options:

• DIY – box and ship yourself (Cost starts around $70, for a bike boxed in cardboard, actual costs depend on weight, size and location).
• Bike Shop
  • $50 to box (varies per shop)
  • Shipping cost (Cost starts around $70, for a bike boxed in cardboard, actual costs depend on weight, size and location).
• Bike Flights
  •  They offer boxes, pick up/delivery service, insurance, tracking and more!  This is a rad company, definitely check it out.
  • Adventure Cycling Association members receive a 10% discount on cardboard boxes and bike cases at Bike Flights, along with a long list of other discounts.

Your Divide starts and ends with a place to stay.  The start has more options but also more people attempting to get those options.  The finish has few options but there are also less people and their arrival is spread out.  This makes it easier.

BANFF

Banff YMCA – the unofficial base camp has rooms but reserve your’s early as space is limited and rooms go fast.  Also be aware it can be noisy.

There are many other lodging offerings available in Banff.  Here are the Google results for them.

JASPER (Tour Divide Max)

There are many other lodging offerings available in Banff.  Here are the Google results for them.  You can find camping options as well.

ANTELOPE WELLS

The Hachita community center is still be available.  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.