New Bikepacking Challenge: One Overnight Trip Per Month

A fresh and exciting challenge is set to commence next month, inviting participants to undertake a bikepacking journey once every month for twelve consecutive months. This innovative endeavor, known as the "Bikepack Every Month Challenge," was conceived by Kurt Refsnider. Refsnider, an accomplished cyclist, notably completed the monumental 5,000-mile Orogenesis trail last year and successfully finished his own year-long bikepacking quest in 2025.

Refsnider shares his enthusiasm, remarking on the profound satisfaction gained from consistent monthly trips over nearly two decades of bikepacking. He expresses a desire for others to experience this unique gratification sooner than he did and looks forward to participating in the challenge once more. The criteria for a bikepacking trip are broad, encompassing any overnight cycling excursion that includes off-road segments. This flexibility means a trip can range from a fully self-supported camping experience with all gear to staying in various accommodations like huts, motels, or even a friend's residence. Given the monthly commitment, most participants are expected to engage in a diverse array of overnight cycling experiences throughout the year.

Beyond the inherent joy of the experience, the "Bikepack Every Month Challenge" also offers tangible rewards. Esteemed sponsors such as Old Man Mountain, Wolf Tooth, Revelate, Industry Nine, Fenix, Pivot, and Ergon have generously contributed prizes, which will be distributed through a random drawing. Cyclists can submit details of their adventures via an online platform to qualify for these prizes. Erik Fenner from Old Man Mountain highlights the platform's role as a tool for mapping and sharing rides, anticipating that it will strengthen the bikepacking community by facilitating connections and celebrating shared experiences. The challenge officially begins in April, providing riders in the Northern Hemisphere with ample opportunity to establish a routine before colder weather sets in, ideally cultivating a lasting bikepacking habit.

This initiative represents a fantastic opportunity for individuals to embrace a healthier, more adventurous lifestyle, fostering resilience, self-discovery, and a deeper connection with nature. Regular engagement in such challenges promotes physical well-being, mental clarity, and a profound sense of accomplishment, encouraging participants to consistently push their boundaries and explore new horizons.