Great Divide Mountain Bike Route

The route is primarily off-pavement, with about 90% consisting of high-quality dirt and gravel roads. You'll encounter varied conditions, from smooth dirt to rocky, washboarded surfaces, and even some mud and sand. Expect sections of unmaintained tracks, rougher jeep tracks, and some singletrack, especially in Montana and Canada. The route crosses the Continental Divide many times, leading to constant elevation changes and long, steep climbs.

The Great Divide Mountain Bike Route is a significant endurance test due to its immense length and substantial elevation changes. While not highly technical, requiring only intermediate off-road mountain biking skills, its remote nature and varied terrain make it challenging. Riders should be at least moderately fit, as resupply points can be over 100 miles apart in some sections. Weather can also be highly variable, from snow at high elevations to extreme desert heat.

It holds the distinction of being the world's longest off-pavement cycling route and is widely considered the birthplace of bikepacking. It's also the course for the annual self-supported Tour Divide race. The route closely follows and repeatedly crosses the Continental Divide, offering extreme remoteness, diverse ecosystems, and a profound connection with nature across the American West.

The route offers spectacular and ever-changing scenery, traversing wild river valleys, remote mountain wilderness, open grasslands, and high deserts. You'll see diverse landscapes from the Canadian Rockies to Montana's backcountry, Wyoming's wide-open basins, Colorado's towering mountain passes, and New Mexico's desert mesas, including the Chihuahuan Desert. Opportunities to view wildlife like bears, deer, wild horses, and eagles are common.

The best time to ride is typically during the summer months, from June to September. However, even in summer, be prepared for highly variable weather, including potential snow at high elevations, afternoon thunderstorms, and extreme heat in desert sections. Planning around these conditions is crucial.

Generally, no specific permits are required for the entire Great Divide Mountain Bike Route itself, as it primarily uses public roads and trails. However, riders should be aware that some sections might pass through national parks or other protected areas that could have entrance fees or specific regulations. It's always wise to check local regulations for specific segments you plan to ride.

Resupply points vary greatly along the route. Some sections can have distances of over 100 miles between towns or services. Riders need a robust resupply strategy, carrying sufficient food and water, and planning stops in advance. Towns along the route, though sometimes small, offer opportunities for groceries, water, and sometimes lodging or bike shops.

The route traditionally starts in Banff, Alberta, Canada, and ends in Antelope Wells, New Mexico, USA. Many riders begin at either end. For those starting in Montana, areas around Whitefish, such as near Lee Mason State Park or the Great Northern Railway Depot in Historic Whitefish, serve as popular access points. Parking availability will vary by location, often found in towns or designated trail access areas.

The Great Divide Mountain Bike Route is generally not recommended for beginners or young families due to its extreme length, remoteness, significant elevation changes, and varied terrain. While some shorter, less technical sections might be manageable, the overall route demands considerable fitness, self-sufficiency, and intermediate off-road cycling skills. There are no specific 'family-friendly' sections highlighted for the entire route, but local paths like the Fish Trails Bike Path near Whitefish offer easier riding.

Due to the extreme length, remoteness, and varied terrain, the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route is generally not considered dog-friendly for the entire journey. Many sections pass through wilderness areas where dogs may be restricted or require specific permits. Furthermore, the presence of wildlife, including grizzly bears in Montana, and the long distances between resupply points make it challenging to manage a dog safely and comfortably. Always check local regulations for specific segments.

The route passes through numerous historic mountain towns and offers glimpses into the American West. Highlights include the Flathead Valley in Alberta, Grand Teton National Park, the Great Divide Basin in Wyoming, South Park and Boreas Pass in Colorado, Polvadera Mesa, and the Gila Wilderness in New Mexico. Near Whitefish, you can explore Historic Whitefish, visit the Great Northern Railway Depot, or relax at Whitefish City Beach.

Yes, the route is primarily known as the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route (68% of the route covered by this official trail). However, it also passes through sections of other official trails, such as the Fish Trails Bike and Pedestrian Path (24%), Colorado Ave Shared Use Path (15%), Baker Underpass South (10%), and Barkley Lane (4%).