What I Learned from Bikepacking Across the West

Why the West Hooked Me

For years, I pored over maps of the American West. The desert’s stark beauty, the promise of solitude, and the challenge of self-sufficiency drew me in. I craved a test of my limits, a break from the digital world, and a connection with landscapes only a bike could offer. My journey became a quest to find meaning on the road, much like the insights shared there.

Meanwhile, the West became more than a place—it was a feeling. The wind whispered through canyons. The sun seared my skin. The desert night hummed quietly. It’s where you find yourself… or at least discover your granola bar limit.

Route Overview (Moab → AZ & NV desert)

My route wasn’t a single trail but a patchwork of dirt roads, gravel paths, and pavement linking iconic Western landscapes. It blended parts of the Arizona Trail, the Great Western Trail, and some hidden gems I stumbled upon.

• Starting Point: Moab, Utah 🏜️
• Key Destinations: Canyonlands National Park, Capitol Reef National Park, Grand Staircase-Escalante, Arizona Trail sections, remote Nevada
• Total Distance: ~1200 miles
• Duration: 6 weeks
• Terrain: Gravel, dirt roads, sandy sections, rocky climbs

Desert Gear That Actually Worked

Here’s what actually worked, what failed, and what I’d pack again for the desert.

Standout Gear on This Route

Selecting reliable gear can make or break your trip, as I learned the hard way. For more recommendations, check out that guide.

• Reliable Bike: My Surly Bridge Club was a beast, with a sturdy frame for long days.
• Tires: Maxxis Ikon 2.2″ tubeless tires balanced speed and traction.
• Hydration: Water bottles, a CamelBak, and a Sawyer Squeeze filter kept me hydrated.
• Navigation: A Garmin eTrex GPS and paper maps were lifesavers in remote areas.
• Sun Protection: SPF 50 sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses were must-haves.
• Repair Kit: Tools, spare tubes, patches, and a chain tool fixed multiple breakdowns.

Gear Lessons Learned for Bikepacking

Capturing the desert’s beauty was a bonus, but it required lightweight gear. I wish I’d known the tips for adventure photography before packing my camera.

• Clothing: Merino wool is breathable and odor-resistant. Pack a fleece and windbreaker for temperature swings.
• Sleeping System: A lightweight tent, sleeping bag (rated 20°F below expected lows), and pad ensured comfort.
• Cooking: A small stove and pot made hot meals. Choose calorie-dense foods like nuts.
• First Aid: Include pain relievers, antihistamines, and stomach meds.
• Electronics: A power bank and solar charger kept devices alive.

Food Planning That Kept Me Moving

I aimed for 4–5k daily calories, leaning on pocketable, calorie-dense staples—peanut-butter packets, dehydrated meals, and a rotation of bars and trail mix. I planned town resupplies in places like Moab and Escalante, and kept two extra days of food in case weather or terrain slowed me down.

Gear Checklist for the Desert Ride

Essential Gear Table

“Gear is your lifeline in the desert. Choose wisely, pack light, and master your tools.”

My Worst Desert Mistakes (and fixes)

I messed up plenty, and those blunders taught me how to ride smarter in the desert.

Underestimating Desert Heat: Bikepacking Lessons

Mistake: In late spring, I thought I’d dodge the worst heat. Wrong. Temperatures hit 100°F, and I dehydrated fast, barely pedaling 10 miles.

Solution:

1. Ride before sunrise to avoid peak heat.
2. Rest in shade frequently.
3. Plan roughly 4–6 liters daily, adjusting for heat, effort, and body size.
4. Use electrolyte tablets to replace salts.
5. Wear light-colored, loose clothing.
6. Soak a bandana for cooling.

Water Shortages

Mistake: I trusted map-listed water sources, only to find them dry. Rationing my last sips was terrifying.

Solution:

1. Call ranger stations to verify water sources, and review your park’s official safety page for current heat and hydration guidance.
2. Carry 1 gallon/day, more in heat.
3. Purify all natural water with a filter.
4. Plan routes around reliable water.

Poor Route Planning for Bikepacking

Mistake: I assumed mapped roads were passable. Sandy washes and washed-out paths forced hours of pushing my bike.

Solution:

1. Check road conditions via forums or locals.
2. Prepare for hike-a-bike in sand.
3. Have backup routes ready.
4. Use offline maps for no-service areas.

Gear Breakdowns

Mistake: I skipped a pre-trip bike tune-up. A flat tire, broken spoke, and wonky derailleurs slowed me down.

Solution:

1. Get a professional bike check.
2. Learn to fix flats, chains, and derailleurs.
3. Carry spare tubes and a spoke wrench.
4. Use threadlocker on bolts.

Ignoring Physical Limits

Mistake: I ignored knee pain and saddle sores, pushing too hard. Riding became agony.

Solution:

1. Take breaks when tired.
2. Pace yourself; aim for steady miles.
3. Stretch daily to prevent soreness.
4. Ensure proper bike fit.
5. Use chamois cream for saddle sores.

Are You Desert-Ready? Quick Assessment

What Actually Worked Out There

What paid off most was the unglamorous prep—weeks of route research and water checks—paired with flexibility on the ground. Rerouting became normal, and a good attitude turned rough stretches into stories. Advice from veteran riders helped, too. If you’re brand-new, start with Bikepacking 101 and then layer in the desert tweaks.

Mental Prep for Long Desert Days

One night under a starry sky, I doubted I’d finish. To stay strong:

• Set small goals: Focus on the next 10 miles, not the whole trip.
• Embrace solitude: Use quiet moments to reflect.
• Visualize success: Picture reaching the next town.
• Carry a morale booster: A playlist or journal helped me.

Desert-Specific Tips

The desert throws curveballs. I shook out my shoes each morning for rattlesnakes, pulled a buff over my face when dust kicked up, and avoided dry washes whenever rain showed up in the forecast. A little caution keeps the adventure fun.

Conclusion: The Desert’s Worth It

These Western US bikepacking lessons transformed me. You’ll face heat, doubt, and the occasional breakdown, but also crimson sunsets, quiet nights, and a stronger version of yourself. Prepare well, verify water, start early, and ride your plan (not someone else’s). If you’re new to this, Bikepacking 101 is a great place to begin. Pack plenty of water, stash a spare burrito, and chase the horizon.