Upper 1/4 TDR Mid June 2016

[bakerjw]

I had grandiose plans to do this back in June 2015. But, real life took some precedence and we all know how the best laid plans go.

Looking forward at the calendar.
June 10th 2016 looks to be the grand departure date.
June 20th 2016 is the full moon, so the racers will have a full moon on their side about mid race. That is great for them.

The next full moon is July 19th.
My target departure date would be Friday June 17th.

My plan is to ride the top 1/4 of the TDR from Banff to Helena Mt. That would be a bit more than 700 miles.
I plan on giving myself a maximum 2 week window which would be averaging 50 miles a day. If I can't average 50 miles a day then I better find myself a nice rocking chair.
Doing it in 5 days would be ideal although I suspect that 7 to 9 would be a more reasonable expectation.

The goal is to enjoy the experience while stopping and smelling the roses. That is not to say that putting miles under the tires is not the focus.

Plans are still flexible right now.

[bakerjw]

I'm going to give this a bump as it is still on the front burner.

[bakerjw]

Bumping back to the top as THIS is the year.

From when I started this post to now, I went ahead and booked a room and flight. I'll be landing in Calgary on June 15th and hopefully the bike makes it with me. The plan is to hit the trail very early on June 17th. Rather than stay in one of the group rooms, I booked a hotel with 2 beds. If anyone is interested in leaving on my schedule I've got an extra bed.

[offroute]

It really comes down to personality, but I would be plenty stoked to ride any of the divide solo. It's actually easier in many respects, IMO. Get a PLB or Spot and go for it!

A buddy in CO will probably join me for a few days this year, which to me is just right. I'd offer to join you for a section, but my start time will be late.

Flight and rooms booked – you're on your way... Best wishes sewing it up!

[kj78133]

Best wishes - wish I could join you, but my time off won't begin until mid-July when I'll be heading southbound.

Even if you don't find any partners, go for it - you'll have a blast.  The hardest part is getting to the starting line.

KJ

[bakerjw]

Actually... The hardest part is getting back to sleep after waking up in the middle of the night and wondering "What the heck am I doing?"