The Great Divide Trail

This run of the mill forest track actually represents something rather spectacular - the beginning of The Great Divide Trail. Over 2700 miles long, this will take me to the border of the USA, right through the States down into Mexico. 

My steel framed bike is super sturdy so should cope with the demands of the trail well. I've put on extra chunky tyres which, though slower on the roads, stick to the gravely trails like glue.

The threat of bears is taken really seriously here and, especially when wild camping, any noises through the night can be a bit unsettling. As you can see trails are closed off and park officers drive around the campsites warning people to be vigilant. The park officer I spoke to had a peculiar accent; he was from Manchester!

While my bike is tough not all the components are up to scratch. My front pannier rack snapped and will be replaced as soon as I can get to a bike shop. Another Great Divide cyclist has helped me patch it up so I can continue for the moment. To add insult to injury, a couple of miles after the 'snap' I got my first puncture. Fortunately, my bike repair kit, courtesy of 9DPM, came to the rescue.

The track had been washed away so I had to unload the bike and carry everything across separately; exhausting and stressful! But also part of the adventure I came looking for. Finally, I don't know if I write this with pride or shame, but I've not showered for a week now! Lots of wild camping and basic campsites means I've made do with rivers and lakes for washing. I am staying with cyclists in Fernie tonight, cannot wait to get clean.