Your Ultimate Tour Divide Transportation Guide: Passports, Airports, And More

Welcome to the Tour Divide Transportation Guide. Navigating the travel logistics of the Tour Divide can be as challenging as the ride itself, especially with the added complexity of crossing international borders and the remoteness of Antelope Wells. Proper planning is crucial to ensure a smooth headache free journey. This guide is designed to simplify your transportation arrangements, helping you focus on the adventure ahead rather than the details of getting there and back.

To simplify your journey, I created this Tour Divide Transportation Guide. This comprehensive resource covers:

Passports and Visas: Essential documentation for international travel.
Best Airports: Recommendations for the most convenient airports.
Travel to and from the Airport: Guidance on navigating to and from your starting and ending points.
Parking Options: Advice on where to park your vehicle safely.
Transporting Your Bicycle: Tips for getting your bike to and from the trail efficiently.

Let us help you focus on the ride, not the ride to the ride.

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PASSPORTS / VISAS

When it comes to international travel you may encounter various requirements depending on your country of residence and your destination. Here’s a breakdown of current requirements for traveling to and from the Tour Divide route:

Traveling to Canada:

US Citizens: Only need a valid passport to fly into Canada.
Non-US Citizens: Need to apply for and obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before traveling to Canada.
ArrivCAN App: As of October 1, 2022, the ArriveCAN app is optional for travelers entering Canada.

Entering the United States:

US Citizens: Can re-enter the United States with either a Passport Book or Passport Card.
Citizens of Visa Waiver Program (VWP) Countries: Citizens from one of the 38 approved countries must apply for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) to enter the US.
Non-VWP Citizens: Must apply for a B-1 (Business) or B-2 (Tourism) Visitor Visa in advance.

Return Flight Requirement:

The requirement for having a return flight when entering the US can vary. While some racers have reported not being asked for proof of a return flight, the necessity can depend on the border guard and other factors.

For Travelers Using the Visa Waiver Program (VWP):

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.
An onward flight to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, or the Caribbean is insufficient unless the passenger is a lawful resident of one of those countries.

It’s always best to check the most current travel requirements and regulations before you embark on your journey to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.

Pro-Tip

Bureaucracy can mean long wait times. Don’t put off applying for any of these forms or your Passport. Your trip depends on it.

PASSPORT BOOK vs PASSPORT CARD

A Passport Book and Passport Card are both issued by the U.S. Department of State but serve different purposes and have distinct features:

Passport Book:

Format and Appearance:
- The Passport Book is a traditional, booklet-style document with a blue cover.
- Contains multiple pages for visas and entry/exit stamps.
Usage:
- Valid for all international travel by air, sea, or land.
- Can be used to travel to any country in the world, provided you have the necessary visas.
Cost:
- Generally more expensive than the Passport Card due to its broader usability.
Security Features:
- Contains a biometric chip with the holder’s information, enhancing security and speeding up border crossings.

Choosing Between the Two:

If you plan to travel internationally by air or need a document that is universally accepted, the Passport Book is essential.
If you frequently travel by land or sea to neighboring countries like Canada or Mexico, and do not need to travel by air, the Passport Card is a convenient and cost-effective option.

Many travelers opt to have both, providing flexibility for different types of travel. Have a waterproof case like a SealLine Ecase or similar to protect your credentials.

Passport Card:

Format and Appearance:
- The Passport Card is a wallet-sized, plastic card similar to a driver’s license.
- Contains the holder’s photograph and identifying information.
Usage:
- Valid for international travel by land and sea to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean.
- Not valid for international air travel.
Cost:
- Less expensive than the Passport Book, making it a cost-effective option for travelers frequently crossing borders by land or sea.
Convenience:
- More convenient to carry due to its compact size.
- Useful as a secondary form of identification within the U.S.

Pro-Tip

Make sure you Passport is not within 6 months of expiring before you travel.

ESTA for the U.S.A

What is an ESTA?

The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is an automated system that determines the eligibility of visitors to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). It was introduced to enhance security and streamline the entry process for travelers from VWP countries.

Purpose of ESTA:

Pre-Screening: ESTA pre-screens travelers before they board a plane or ship bound for the U.S., ensuring they meet the requirements for visa-free travel.
Security: Helps the U.S. Department of Homeland Security identify and mitigate potential security risks from travelers before they arrive in the country.
Streamlining: Facilitates faster and more efficient processing of travelers at U.S. entry points.

Additional Considerations:

No Guarantee of Entry: An approved ESTA authorizes travel to a U.S. port of entry but does not guarantee admission into the United States. The final decision is made by a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer at the point of entry.
Updates and Corrections: Travelers can update certain information on their ESTA application (like email address and travel itinerary) and must reapply for a new ESTA if there are significant changes (such as a new passport).

For more detailed information and to apply for an ESTA, visit the official U.S. Customs and Border Protection ESTA website.

Requirements for ESTA:

Eligibility:
- Must be a citizen or eligible national of a Visa Waiver Program country.
- Traveling to the United States for business, tourism, transit, or medical purposes.
- Stay in the U.S. must be 90 days or less.
- Have a valid passport from a VWP country.
Application:
- Must apply online through the official ESTA website.
- Provide personal information, including biographical details and travel plans.
- Answer eligibility questions related to health, criminal history, and previous U.S. immigration violations.
Timing:
- Apply at least 72 hours before travel, but it is recommended to apply as soon as travel is planned.
- ESTA approvals are generally granted quickly, often within minutes, but it can take up to 72 hours.
Validity:
- ESTA approval is valid for two years or until the traveler’s passport expires, whichever comes first.
- Allows for multiple entries into the U.S. during the validity period, each stay not exceeding 90 days.
Fee:
- As of now, there is a fee for processing the ESTA application, payable online during the application process.

Pro-Tip

Non-US citizens should consider insisting that border agents scan their passport, even if they offer to just wave them through. That way you can prove you left Canada, in case it comes up later.

Pro-Tip

When asked for a US address when filling out your ESTA, former riders have just put their hotel where ever they plan to finish.

ETA for CANADA

What is an eTA for Canada?

The Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is a digital entry requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals traveling to Canada by air. It allows eligible travelers to enter Canada for tourism, business, or transit purposes.

Purpose of the eTA:

Pre-Screening: Ensures that travelers meet the necessary entry requirements before boarding their flight to Canada.
Security: Enhances the security of Canada’s borders by identifying potential risks before travelers arrive.
Streamlining: Facilitates smoother and faster processing of travelers at Canadian entry points.

Requirements for the eTA:

Eligibility:
- Must be a citizen of a visa-exempt country (e.g., citizens of the United States do not need an eTA but require proper identification such as a passport or NEXUS card).
- Applies to air travel only. If entering Canada by land or sea (e.g., car, bus, train, or boat), an eTA is not required.
Application:
- Must apply online through the official Government of Canada website.
- Provide personal information, including biographical details and passport information.
- Answer eligibility questions related to health, criminal history, and previous Canadian immigration violations.
Timing:
- Apply before booking your flight to Canada. While many eTA applications are approved within minutes, it is recommended to apply well in advance of travel.
- In some cases, additional documentation may be requested, which can delay processing.
Validity:
- The eTA is valid for up to five years or until the traveler’s passport expires, whichever comes first.
- Allows for multiple entries into Canada during the validity period, each stay not exceeding six months.
Fee:
- As of now, there is a CAD $7 fee for processing the eTA application, payable online during the application process.

Additional Considerations:

No Guarantee of Entry: An approved eTA authorizes travel to a Canadian port of entry but does not guarantee admission into Canada. The final decision is made by a Canadian border services officer at the point of entry.
Updates and Corrections: Travelers must reapply for a new eTA if they receive a new passport, change their name, gender, or nationality, or if their previous eTA expires.
Children and Dependents: Each traveler must have their own eTA, including minors. Parents or guardians can apply on behalf of their children.

For more detailed information and to apply for an eTA, visit the official Government of Canada eTA website.

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.

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.

GDMBR PLANNING AIDS

If you’re looking to ride the ACA’s GDMBR from Jasper to Antelope Wells you can find the planning aids by hitting the button below.

GDMBR

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WHICH AIRPORT TO FLY INTO?

Calgary International Airport (YYC) is the best choice for flying into for the Tour Divide due to its proximity to Banff, Alberta, the race’s starting point. Located about 1.5 hours away from Banff, YYC offers the shortest and most convenient access to the route.

As a major international hub, YYC provides a range of flight options and transportation services, including car rentals and shuttles. The airport also features bike-friendly amenities, making it ideal for bikepackers preparing for their journey.

El Paso International Airport (ELP) is the best option for flying home after completing or for a NOBO start of the Tour Divide, due to its proximity (3 hrs.) to Antelope Wells, New Mexico. ELP offers a variety of domestic and some international flights, providing flexibility for travelers heading home. The airport is accessible via major highways and offers car rentals and shuttle services, making it a convenient choice for completing your journey and returning home.

Other options include: Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) is about 5.5 hours and Tucson International Airport (TUS) is around 4.5 hours.

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!

CALGARY, AB

Being that YYC is an international airport, you’ll have lots of options of which airline you use. The full list includes:

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 (see below for details).

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

EL PASO, TX

El Paso International Airport (ELP) is your closest airport to the southern terminus. It’s only 176 miles and 2 hours 53 minutes.

DOMESTIC CARRIERS:

INTERNATIONAL CARRIERS:

Aeromexico (offering flights to and from Mexico)

TUCSON, AZ

ALBUQUERQUE, NM

Tucson International Airport (TUS) is your second closest airport to Antelope Wells. It’s 242 miles and 3 hours and 38 minutes drive time. It’s a smaller airport when it comes to international airports, which means it’s easy to get around.

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

DOMESTIC CARRIERS:

INTERNATIONAL CARRIERS:

DOMESTIC CARRIERS:

INTERNATIONAL CARRIERS:

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

When planning your journey to and from the Tour Divide, you have several transportation options to consider, each catering to different needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for convenience, cost-effectiveness, or adventure, there are various ways to get to the start and from the finish of the race.

You can choose from shuttle services, bus routes, private pickups, trains, or even the adventurous option of riding your bike. Each mode of transportation offers unique benefits and considerations, so explore the options below to find the best fit for your travel plans and ensure a smooth start and finish to your Tour Divide experience.

SHUTTLES

BANFF, AB:

Banff Airporter: Enjoy a 15% discount on your ticket with the code “divide.” You’ll find them in the domestic terminal between Exit doors 5 and 6 at Area “B” (between Tim Horton’s and Starbucks). The drive to Banff takes approximately 1 hour 45 minutes, not including time for loading and unloading passengers.
SunDog Tours: Contact them at 1-888-786-3641 for shuttle services to and from Banff.

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.
WhiteFish Bike Retreat: Located in Whitefish, MT, they offer shuttles from mid-June to late August between Whitefish and Banff. They also provide safe parking, camping, and accommodations for Divide riders. Free shuttles are available from Whitefish (behind Glacier Cyclery) with pick-ups and drop-offs three times a day. Contact them at 406-260-0274 for details and reservations.
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

BANFF, AB:

Banff Airporter: Currently, Banff Airporter is the main shuttle service available from Calgary International Airport to Banff. Use the code “divide” for a 15% discount. Find them in the domestic terminal between Exit doors 5 and 6 at area “B” (between Tim Horton’s and Starbucks). The drive time is approximately 1 hour 45 minutes, excluding loading and unloading time.

JASPER, AB:

Greyhound Bus: You can take a Greyhound bus from Calgary to Jasper. However, this route goes through Edmonton, making the journey over nine hours. Flying directly into Jasper may be more convenient.

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

BANFF, AB

For those getting picked up in Banff, 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

YYC to BANFF, AB

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 135 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

BANFF, AB:

None: There are no direct train services to Banff.

JASPER, AB:

None: There are no direct train services to Jasper either.

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.

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

PARKING OPTIONS

START (BANFF, AB):

Banff: Parking options in Banff are limited, especially near the starting area. It’s advisable to check with local accommodations or parking facilities for long-term parking options (The Town of Banff has a 72 hour rule for parked cars. There is no mention of long term parking on their website. or anywhere else on the web.) Some riders choose to arrange a shuttle or ride-sharing to the start to avoid parking issues.

FINISH (ANTELOPE WELLS, NM):

Antelope Wells: This remote border crossing does not have formal parking facilities. Most riders arrange for a pickup or shuttle from nearby towns, as parking in the area is either very limited or not available. The nearest town with more robust services is Columbus, NM, where you might find better parking and shuttle options. Hachita is closest to the finish and Jeffery Sharp is your best option for help.

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.

SHIPPING / FLYING YOUR BIKE

When it comes to getting your bike to the start of the Tour Divide, you have two primary options: shipping it or flying with it. Each method offers different benefits and considerations, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs.

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.

Pro-Tip

Whether you’re flying or just shipping your bike be sure to remove your Co2 cartridges.

Also don’t bother fully taping up your box as TSA will most definitely go through it with you before they accept it.

LODGING

START (BANFF, AB):

Banff: As a popular tourist destination, Banff offers a wide range of lodging options, from hotels and motels to hostels and vacation rentals. Options close to the starting area include:
- 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.
- Hotels: Various hotels such as the Fairmont Banff Springs and Banff Park Lodge offer convenient access to the start line.
- Motels: More budget-friendly options are available, such as the Red Carpet Inn and the Brewster’s Mountain Lodge.
- Hostels: For a more economical stay, consider hostels like the Banff Y Mountain Lodge.
- Vacation Rentals: Airbnb and similar platforms offer rental homes and apartments.
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.

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 TD Resources

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

MY PROVEN GEAR LISTS FROM THE TRIPLE CROWN

TOUR DIVIDE

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

“IF I RODE…” SERIES

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

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

Bikepacking, TD Featured Resources, tour divide

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Bikepacking Resources

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Your Ultimate Tour Divide Transportation Guide: Passports, Airports, And More

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PASSPORTS / VISAS

Traveling to Canada:

Entering the United States:

Return Flight Requirement:

For Travelers Using the Visa Waiver Program (VWP):

PASSPORT BOOK vs PASSPORT CARD

Passport Book:

Choosing Between the Two:

Passport Card:

ESTA for the U.S.A

What is an ESTA?

Purpose of ESTA:

Additional Considerations:

Requirements for ESTA:

ETA for CANADA

What is an eTA for Canada?

Purpose of the eTA:

Requirements for the eTA:

Additional Considerations:

TOUR DIVIDE PLANNING AIDS

BUNDLES

Small Bundles:

Big Bundles:

DATA SHEETS / TOWN LISTS

Data Sheets:

Town Lists:

MILEAGE / ELEVATION GAIN CHARTS

Mileage Charts:

Elevation Gain Charts:

GDMBR PLANNING AIDS

WHICH AIRPORT TO FLY INTO?

CALGARY, AB

EL PASO, TX

TUCSON, AZ

ALBUQUERQUE, NM

TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS

SHUTTLES

BUSES

PICK UP

RIDE

TRAIN

Tour Divide Rider Survey

PARKING OPTIONS

SHIPPING / FLYING YOUR BIKE

SHIPPING YOUR BIKE

FLYING WITH YOUR BIKE

LODGING

More Helpful TD Resources

MY PROVEN GEAR LISTS FROM THE TRIPLE CROWN

TOUR DIVIDE

“IF I RODE…” SERIES

Checkout our bikepacking resource page for more planning help.

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