The Route

The Idaho Hot Springs Mountain Bike Route (IHSMBR) was conceived by the Adventure Cycling Association (ACA) as a way to guide bikepackers along 517.5 miles of gravel roads through central Idaho's untamed wilderness. It offers bikepackers a glimpse into some of the most remote regions of the continental United States, and has the added benefit of taking them past some of the best hot springs in North America. Rather than wax on about a route I have yet to ride, I'll let the ACA provide a more thorough route description:

"The Idaho Hot Springs Mountain Bike Route guides riders over and through the breathtaking landscape of central Idaho. From blue ribbon trout streams to sub-alpine terrain and cozy mountain towns, riders will pass through some of the most spectacular country the West has to offer, with the opportunity to indulge in the highest concentration of soakable hot springs in North America...The route passes near several designated wilderness areas, including the Selway-Bitterroot and Frank Church-River of No Return, which form the largest wilderness complex in the lower 48 states."

The IHSMBR consists of a northern and southern loop bisected by a paved cutoff. The complete route is approximately 520 miles, with an optional spur that takes riders into Boise.

The unpaved roads and remote nature of the IHSMBR will make this tour quite different than my previous cross-country tours. Gone will be the daily assurance of passing by grocery stores or relying on the goodwill of others. Resources and people are fewer and farther between, and options for resupply, repair, healthcare, and respite consists of a few mountain towns scattered several days apart along the route. Self-reliance and grit will therefore be necessary to traverse the route safely and to make the most of the trip. Again, I defer to the ACA for a more thorough description:

"A wide variety of road conditions exists along this route...[ranging] from pavement, good gravel roads, four-wheel-drive roads, singletrack, and old railroad beds...Snow, hail, and afternoon thunderstorms can be a factor. Medical help is often a long distance off of the route, so riding within your abilities and being aware of dangers is a must."

It is certain to be quite the adventure, and I am thrilled that Caleb and I will be able to experience the awe of the IHSMBR together. Onward!

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