What I Learned from Bikepacking Across the West

Bikepacking Western US Lessons Learned: Why the West

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

Gear for Bikepacking Western US Lessons Learned

With my route planned, choosing the right gear became critical in the desert’s harsh environment. Accordingly, here’s what worked, what failed, and what’s essential for desert bikepacking.

Gear That Shined for Western US Bikepacking Lessons

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 non-negotiable.
• 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 for Desert Bikepacking Lessons

Desert bikepacking demands high-calorie, lightweight meals. For instance, I aimed for 4000–5000 calories daily. Favorites included:

• Peanut butter packets (200 cal/oz)
• Dehydrated meals (e.g., Mountain House)
• Energy bars and trail mix

Plan resupply stops in towns like Moab or Escalante, and carry 2 extra days’ food for emergencies.

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. Drink 4–6 liters daily, even if not thirsty.
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.
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.

Desert Bikepacking Lessons: Prep Assessment

What Actually Worked Out There

Not everything went wrong! Here’s what succeeded and why it mattered for my adventure.

• Planning: Months of route research and water source checks paid off.
• Flexibility: Adapting to challenges, like rerouting, kept me moving.
• Mindset: A positive attitude turned tough days into adventures.
• Community: Advice from veteran bikepackers was invaluable. If you’re new to the basics, start with Bikepacking 101 and then dial in your desert-specific tweaks.

Mental Prep for Long Desert Days

The desert tests your mind as much as your body. For example, one night, alone 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 has unique challenges. Thus, prepare for:

• Wildlife: Watch for rattlesnakes; shake out shoes before wearing.
• Dust Storms: Cover your face with a buff and stop if visibility drops.
• Flash Floods: Avoid dry washes during rain forecasts.

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, a spare burrito, and chase the horizon.