Five Must-Do Bikepacking Routes for 2026

Every year, new routes rise to the top of the bikepacking world. As we look toward 2026, one thing is clear: riders aren’t just chasing miles anymore, they’re chasing experiences. Routes that blend wild landscapes, culture, and moments off the bike are becoming just as important as the riding itself.

Whether you’re planning your first long trip or dreaming of your next big adventure, these five bikepacking routes belong on your 2026 list.

1. The Tour Divide (Canada to Mexico)

The Tour Divide remains one of the most iconic bikepacking routes on the planet. Following the Continental Divide for over 2,700 miles, it crosses remote forests, high mountain passes, and wide-open desert.

It’s a route that tests endurance and mindset, rewarding riders with silence, scale, and an unmatched sense of accomplishment.

Expect unpredictable weather, extended isolation, and constant elevation changes. This route is best suited for experienced riders who are comfortable being self-supported for weeks at a time.

Difficulty: Extreme

2. Camino del Norte by Gravel (Spain)

A perfect blend of riding and reflection, the Camino del Norte follows Spain’s northern coastline toward Santiago de Compostela. Gravel roads, coastal cliffs, and historic towns shape a journey where pace matters less than presence.

It’s ideal for those who want meaningful riding without extreme remoteness, blending physical effort with cultural discovery.

Difficulty: Medium

3. The Andes Route, Colombia

Colombia’s Andes are no joke. Steep climbs, high elevation, and changing weather make this route physically demanding. While the infrastructure and hospitality are excellent, the terrain requires strong legs and good pacing.

It’s a route that demands respect and adaptability, while offering some of the most diverse scenery in South America.

This route is best for riders who already have experience with long climbs and variable conditions.

Difficulty: Hard

4. Silk Road Mountain Route (Kyrgyzstan)

Remote, rugged, and breathtaking, this is one of the most demanding bikepacking routes in the world. High-altitude passes, long stretches without resupply, and rough terrain require advanced navigation and expedition skills.

This route is for seasoned bikepackers seeking a true test of self-reliance.

Difficulty: Extreme

5. Northern Coastal Routes (UK & Northern Spain)

These routes are flexible and approachable, with shorter distances between towns and less extreme elevation. Weather can be unpredictable, but logistics are relatively simple.

Perfect for riders new to bikepacking or those looking for a relaxed adventure with scenic rewards.

United Kingdom

North Coast 500 (Scotland)

A 500-mile loop around the Scottish Highlands. Mix of pavement, rough tarmac, and gravel detours. Constant climbing, strong winds, and remote stretches. Famous for its raw beauty: sea cliffs, empty roads, and big skies.

Why bikepackers love it:
It’s physically demanding but logistically simple, towns, pubs, and wild camping options are frequent if you know where to look.

Difficulty: Hard (weather can push it toward Extreme)

Hebridean Way (Outer Hebrides)

Island-hopping route via ferries off Scotland’s west coast. Rolling terrain with brutal crosswinds. Quiet roads, beaches, and total mental reset

Why it stands out:
You’re riding between the ocean and the sky most of the time. It feels remote but accessible.

Difficulty: Medium–Hard (wind-dependent)

Northern Coastal Routes 

This usually points to routes following Spain’s Green Coast (Costa Verde):

Camino del Norte (Basque Country → Galicia)

Coastal alternative to the Camino Francés. Steep climbs, short punchy descents, mixed surfaces. Frequent villages, amazing food, ocean views almost nonstop

Why bikepackers love it:
It’s one of the few places where hard riding and good food coexist perfectly. You suffer up a climb, then eat like royalty.

Difficulty: Hard (short, steep gradients)

Cantabrian Coast Routes

Less formal routes connecting Basque Country, Cantabria, and Asturias. Quiet secondary roads and gravel farm tracks. Green hills, cliffs, and constant elevation change.

Why it’s special:
It feels wild but human — cows, fishermen, surf towns, and hidden cafés.

Difficulty: Medium–Hard

Why group them together?

Bikepackers often talk about these areas together because they share:

-Harsh coastal weather

-Constant elevation change

-Remote-feeling riding with culture-rich stops

-A strong sense of journey rather than a race

They’re ideal for riders who want:

-Long days

-Unpredictable conditions

-Big mental rewardds

Difficulty: Easy to Medium

Final Thoughts

Bikepacking in 2026 is about choosing experiences that stay with you — routes that challenge your body, open your perspective, and invite moments off the bike just as meaningful as the riding itself.

After long days in the saddle, comfort during those off-bike moments matters more than most people realize. That’s why having lightweight, packable footwear like BERT shoes can make a difference, giving your feet a break at camp, in towns, or on recovery walks, without adding unnecessary weight to your setup.

Wherever 2026 takes you, ride far, stay curious, and enjoy every step of the journey.