Introduction
Bikepacking, a blend of biking and minimalist camping, is a growing trend among adventure seekers and cycling enthusiasts. Combining the thrill of off-road cycling with the freedom of self-supported travel, bikepacking allows riders to explore some of the most stunning landscapes around the world. This article highlights some of the most scenic bikepacking trails globally, each offering a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and challenging terrains.
North America
Great Divide Mountain Bike Route, USA
Overview:
Spanning over 2,700 miles from Banff, Canada, to Antelope Wells, New Mexico, the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route (GDMBR) is one of the most iconic long-distance bikepacking trails in the world. It traverses the spine of the Rocky Mountains, offering a mix of remote wilderness, high mountain passes, and small-town charm.
Highlights:
- Jaw-dropping scenery of the Rocky Mountains.
- Challenging terrains including gravel roads, single tracks, and high-altitude passes.
- Encounters with diverse wildlife and pristine natural landscapes.
Best Time to Ride:
Late June to early September, to avoid snow in higher elevations.
Oregon Outback, USA
Overview:
The Oregon Outback is a 360-mile route that runs from Klamath Falls in southern Oregon to the Columbia River Gorge. This trail takes riders through remote high desert landscapes, pine forests, and historic small towns.
Highlights:
- Stunning views of the Oregon high desert and Cascade Mountains.
- Abandoned railways, historic sites, and remote trails.
- Camping opportunities in serene and isolated spots.
Best Time to Ride:
Late spring to early summer, or early fall to avoid extreme heat.
South America
Carretera Austral, Chile
Overview:
Stretching over 770 miles through Chilean Patagonia, the Carretera Austral offers one of the most spectacular bikepacking experiences in the world. This route is renowned for its rugged beauty, glacial fjords, dense forests, and remote villages.
Highlights:
- Breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and rivers.
- Opportunities to explore national parks and natural reserves.
- Cultural experiences in remote Patagonian communities.
Best Time to Ride:
December to March, during the Southern Hemisphere summer.
Trans-Ecuador Mountain Bike Route, Ecuador
Overview:
The Trans-Ecuador Mountain Bike Route (TEMBR) is a challenging trail that traverses the Andes mountains, from the northern border with Colombia to the southern border with Peru. The route is approximately 800 miles long and includes a mix of dirt roads, single tracks, and high-altitude passes.
Highlights:
- Scenic vistas of the Andean highlands and volcanic landscapes.
- Cultural encounters with indigenous communities.
- Varied terrain including high-altitude paramo and cloud forests.
Best Time to Ride:
June to September, during the dry season.
Europe
North Sea Cycle Route, Europe
Overview:
The North Sea Cycle Route, also known as EuroVelo 12, is a long-distance bike route that circles the North Sea. It passes through eight countries: Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, England, and Scotland, covering over 3,700 miles.
Highlights:
- Diverse coastal landscapes including cliffs, dunes, and beaches.
- Historical sites and charming coastal towns.
- Relatively flat terrain, making it accessible for a wide range of cyclists.
Best Time to Ride:
Late spring to early autumn, to enjoy milder weather.
The Balkans Bikepacking Route, Balkans
Overview:
This bikepacking route takes riders through the heart of the Balkans, covering several countries including Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Albania, and Macedonia. The route offers a blend of rugged mountains, pristine lakes, and cultural heritage sites.
Highlights:
- Stunning mountain landscapes and coastal views.
- Rich history and cultural diversity.
- Challenging climbs and rewarding descents.
Best Time to Ride:
May to October, avoiding the winter months when high mountain passes can be snow-covered.
Asia
Friendship Highway, China to Nepal
Overview:
The Friendship Highway is a famous route that connects Lhasa in Tibet, China, to Kathmandu in Nepal. Spanning approximately 500 miles, this high-altitude route offers some of the most dramatic mountain scenery in the world.
Highlights:
- Panoramic views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest.
- Tibetan culture and historical sites like monasteries and stupas.
- Challenging high-altitude passes and rugged terrain.
Best Time to Ride:
April to October, to avoid the harsh winter conditions.
Munda Biddi Trail, Australia
Overview:
The Munda Biddi Trail is a long-distance off-road cycling trail in Western Australia, stretching over 620 miles from Mundaring to Albany. “Munda Biddi” means “path through the forest” in the local Noongar language, and the trail lives up to its name, winding through beautiful forests and natural reserves.
Highlights:
- Diverse landscapes including eucalyptus forests, rivers, and coastal areas.
- Abundant wildlife including kangaroos, emus, and various bird species.
- Purpose-built campsites and shelters along the trail.
Best Time to Ride:
March to November, avoiding the peak summer heat.
Africa
Tour d’Afrique, Cairo to Cape Town
Overview:
The Tour d’Afrique is an epic bikepacking journey that covers the entire length of Africa, from Cairo in Egypt to Cape Town in South Africa. This 7,500-mile route takes riders through diverse landscapes, from deserts and savannas to mountains and coastal regions.
Highlights:
- Iconic sites such as the Pyramids of Giza, Victoria Falls, and Table Mountain.
- Varied terrains including deserts, jungles, and mountain ranges.
- Cultural experiences in diverse African communities.
Best Time to Ride:
Varies by region; generally, the route is divided into stages to avoid extreme weather conditions.
Wild Coast, South Africa
Overview:
The Wild Coast in South Africa offers a rugged and scenic bikepacking route along the Eastern Cape. This area is known for its dramatic coastal cliffs, secluded beaches, and traditional Xhosa villages.
Highlights:
- Stunning coastal scenery and untouched beaches.
- Cultural encounters with the local Xhosa people.
- Challenging terrain including steep climbs and technical descents.
Best Time to Ride:
April to October, during the dry season.
Conclusion
Bikepacking trails around the world offer an incredible array of experiences for cycling enthusiasts. From the high mountain passes of the Great Divide to the rugged coastlines of the Wild Coast, each route provides unique challenges and rewards. Whether you’re seeking remote wilderness, cultural immersion, or simply the joy of exploring new landscapes on two wheels, there’s a bikepacking trail out there for you. So gear up, pack your essentials, and embark on an adventure that promises to be both exhilarating and unforgettable.
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