Great Divide Mountain Bike Route

The ideal time to ride is typically from June through September. However, be prepared for variable weather; snow can still be present on high mountain passes in July, and the desert sections may experience searing heat and monsoon rains later in the season. Planning for these conditions is crucial.

The route is predominantly unpaved, with about 90% consisting of high-quality dirt and gravel roads. You'll also encounter rougher jeep tracks and some short, non-technical singletrack sections, particularly in Montana and Canada. Around 10-25% of the route includes paved roads and bike paths. Expect a variety of surfaces, from smooth dirt to rocky and washboarded sections.

The route offers incredible opportunities for wildlife viewing. Riders frequently encounter bears (especially grizzlies in Montana, requiring bear spray), deer, elk, moose, wild horses, and pronghorn antelope. Be prepared for potential encounters and know how to react safely.

Generally, no specific permits are required to ride the entire Great Divide Mountain Bike Route itself, as it largely follows public roads and trails. However, if you plan to camp in certain designated areas within National Forests or other protected lands, or if you enter specific parks like Grand Teton National Park, you may need to pay entrance fees or obtain camping permits. Always check local regulations for the specific sections you plan to ride, especially within areas like the Caribou-Targhee National Forest.

While the route doesn't demand highly technical mountain biking skills, it is considered an arduous test of endurance, not ideal for beginners. It requires intermediate off-road mountain biking abilities due to its immense length, over 200,000 feet of elevation gain, remoteness, and exposure to varied weather and wildlife. Riders should be self-reliant and prepared for significant physical and mental demands.

The route is packed with scenic highlights. Near the Caribou-Targhee National Forest, you'll find the End of Pavement - Grassy Lake Rd - Targhee National Forest, the Wyoming - Idaho State Line, and Moose Lake. Other iconic locations include Grand Teton National Park, the vast Great Divide Basin in Wyoming, and the Gila Wilderness in New Mexico. You'll also pass through wild river valleys, remote mountain wilderness, and high deserts.

Yes, the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route is the primary trail for 100% of this komoot Tour. It also briefly intersects with sections of the Greater Yellowstone - Teton Rail Trail for about 1% of the route.

The route traverses a mix of public lands, including National Forests and BLM land, where dogs are generally permitted but often require leashes. However, specific sections, especially within National Parks or certain wilderness areas, may have restrictions or require dogs to be on a leash at all times. Always check the regulations for the specific areas you plan to ride through, particularly concerning wildlife protection and sensitive habitats.

Completing the entire route, which spans approximately 2,700 to 3,083 miles, is a significant undertaking. Most riders take anywhere from 4 to 8 weeks, depending on their pace, fitness level, and how many rest days they take. The Tour Divide race, a self-supported event along the route, is typically completed in under three weeks by elite riders.

The route passes through numerous small towns and communities where riders can find amenities such as grocery stores, cafes, pubs, and basic accommodations. However, there are also very remote sections with long stretches between resupply points, particularly in Wyoming and New Mexico. Riders must plan their food and water carries carefully and be prepared for self-sufficiency in these areas.

Given the route's length, remoteness, and varied conditions, a comprehensive bikepacking setup is essential. This includes a reliable mountain bike, durable tires, repair kit, camping gear (tent, sleeping bag, pad), cooking system, water filtration, navigation tools (GPS, maps), first-aid kit, and appropriate clothing for all weather conditions (layers, rain gear). Bear spray is mandatory in grizzly country (Montana). Don't forget personal hygiene items and a power bank for electronics.