Go bikepacking with They Cycle and Missing Link Adventure Tours!

On behalf of They Cycle, we are excited to offer two spots to our 2025 Intro Bikepacking Weekend, on October 3-5, 2025.

 

The application window is from August 25th to September 7th. Please review this page for details.

Full event details are available at: www.mlat.ca/bikepacking

The intent of this option is to support the queer community with taking part in the company of a friend.  We have two spots pre-paid by They Cycle - all you have to do is contact us with names of the two participants and a randomized selection will be made after the application window closes.   

You must be a member of the broader LGBTQ2SIA+ community to apply. Your companion just needs to be someone that helps bring you cycling joy.

 

They Cycle and Missing Link Adventure Tours share a passion for creating opportunities for experiencing the joy of adventure on a bike.

 

This October, through a mix of challenge and support, participants can try out an overnight bikepacking trip.

 

The goal of the Intro Bikepacking Weekend is to increment participants forward towards self-sufficient trips. It creates a place to try things out in the company of experienced riders and logistical support, and do so knowing that things work out even when the original plan might not.

 

The challenge:

  • Two days of riding on gravel roads
  • 60km EACH day on a distinct route
  • Managing variable weather
  • Taking the ‘bikepacking’ part as far as is right for you!

 

The support:

  • Experienced co-hosts including Ry Shissler of They Cycle
  • On route vehicle support and optional gear transport
  • Pre-arranged routes and group campsites
  • Assistance with all your pre-event questions
  • A warm bonus meal at the overnight camp spot

 

The experience:

  • A beautiful route through the rugged Almaguin Highlands in Fall
  • A stay at Mikisew Provincial Park
  • Bringing along a riding buddy!
  • Meeting new people learning about bikepacking

 

Good fit:

The distance, riding on gravel and elevation are intended to present participants with a challenge.  Keep in mind thst riders have essentially the whole time of daylight to complete the ride.  In previous years, Day 1 can present a challenge but also a huge reward when done.  Day 2 often turns into, “pffft, I’ve got this!”

Who is a good fit for this adventure?  Riders that:

    • have some steady riding already completed this season.
    • are comfortable at or near the 60km distance without bags/gear.
    • Have some gravel riding experience.
    • Have some experience with nutrition and hydration while riding.

 

Riding a new longer distance WITH the new experience of riding with gear and potentially camping for the first time can really amplify the challenge. Sometimes a few small steps are needed before taking a big step.

 

Rob has a lot of experience with setting a challenge for participants. You can reach out for a chat 

 

The process:

    • Learn about this opportunity (you found this page, so you are doing great!)
    • Find a buddy you want to share the experience with
    • Make sure the dates and location work for you
    • Verify you have the minimum gear required
    • Review the full event details: www.mlat.ca/bikepacking 
    • Reach out with questions if you have any.
    • E-mail us with names!

The application window will be open from Monday, August 25th to Sunday, September 7th. A randomized selection will be made from applicants on Monday, September 8th.

We will confirm our standard participant contact and emergency contact info afterwards.

To apply or ask questions, reach out to Rob at info@mlat.ca