Let’s Talk Bikepacking
If you’ve ever wondered about bikepacking, you’re not alone! It’s an awesome way to explore new places, ride off the beaten path, and enjoy nature like never before. We caught up with Chris Panasky, the founder of Bikepacking Adventures and host of the Bikepacking Adventures podcast, to talk about his bikepacking journey and chat about his upcoming event—the Canadian Shield Bikepacking Summit.
What the Heck is Bikepacking?
So, what exactly is bikepacking? In Chris’s words, it’s like the cooler, off-road version of bike touring. Instead of riding between big cities, bikepackers focus on gravel roads, forests, national parks, and hidden gems in nature. No heavy bags or big cities here—just you, your bike, and the great outdoors.
It’s all about taking your bike on a journey, but getting off the main roads to discover quieter, more remote spots.
Why Should You Try Bikepacking?
If you’re into mountain biking and love the thrill of singletrack, bikepacking might just be your next big adventure. As Chris says “imagine riding a killer trail, setting up camp, and then waking up to do it all over again—without going home!” The beauty of bikepacking is it combines the love of riding and the outdoors, giving you a true sense of freedom.
During our chat he even shared an epic memory from his ride around Mont Blanc, where he got to bikepack and enjoy some seriously awesome singletrack in the mountains. Pretty sweet, right?
How Chris Got Into Bikepacking
Chris didn’t start out as a full-time bikepacker. He was teaching in Southeast Asia, and during his travels, he met some amazing bikepackers that sparked his interest. After a few trips, Chris decided to start his podcast, Bikepacking Adventures as a way to live vicariously through other cyclists and share their travel stories. Little did he know, it would turn into a huge part of his life!
Chris’ Favorite Bikepacking Routes in Ontario
If you’re based in Ontario (or planning to visit), Chris has some fantastic route recommendations! One standout is the Butter Tart 700. This 800-kilometer route takes you over gravel roads, singletrack, and some seriously beautiful views of the Great Lakes. It’s an amazing mix of endurance riding and mountain biking, and it’s especially awesome if you love mountain biking but want to switch things up with some longer trips.
There are also plenty of shorter routes if you’re looking for a quick weekend adventure.
The Canadian Shield Bikepacking Summit
Now, let’s talk about the Canadian Shield Bikepacking Summit. Chris is the mastermind behind this awesome event, which started in 2023. It’s designed to bring bikepackers together for a weekend of presentations, workshops, rides, and camping. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just getting started, this summit has something for everyone.
This year, they’re adding some cool new stuff, like mindset workshops with a psychotherapist and a unicyclist (yes, you read that right). You’ll also get to enjoy morning rides and a fun campfire storytelling session. It’s not just about riding—it’s about connecting with the community and sharing experiences.
What Makes a Great Bikepacking Route?
So, what goes into designing an amazing bikepacking route? According to Chris, it’s all about mixing things up. A good route should take you through cool small towns and unique areas you wouldn’t normally visit. Chris is especially proud of the Canadian Shield Bikepacking Route, a 400 km trail that he developed. It’s got everything: nature reserves, scenic parks, and tons of gorgeous views. Plus, it can be extended to a 1,150 km adventure for those who want the full challenge.
The goal? To help riders experience local communities and the beauty of regions they might otherwise miss.
Chris’ Dream Bikepacking Routes
Chris has a few bucket list routes that he dreams of completing. First up is the Tour Divide, a legendary route that stretches across the US. Another route on his list is the Great Northern Bikepacking Route, which spans an insane 14,000 km from Victoria to St. John’s, Newfoundland. It’s one of the longest bikepacking routes in the world!
And of course, there are some epic races he’d love to tackle, like the Atlas Mountain Race in Morocco or the Silk Road Mountain Race in Kyrgyzstan.
Wrapping Up: The Canadian Shield Summit and Beyond
Chris’s passion for bikepacking is contagious, and it’s clear he’s doing everything he can to help others discover the thrill of riding and exploring new places. If you’re looking to get into bikepacking or just want to meet other riders, the Canadian Shield Bikepacking Summit is a perfect opportunity.
For more details on the event, visit the Bikepacking Adventures website and check out all the info on the summit. If you’re into adventure, cycling, and community, this is one event you won’t want to miss.
