Bikepacking Roots and Experience Fayetteville have teamed up to host a brand-new inclusive bikepacking adventure, taking place in the Ozark Mountains from October 21-23, 2022. 

The Fayetteville Gathering is a non-competitive, community-building experience that will provide an opportunity for riders to learn how to bikepack safely in a supportive environment. For those that already enjoy combining their pedaling with their backpacking, the Fayetteville Gathering will provide an inclusive and welcoming starting point to build a network of like-minded riders. Starting and ending in historic Downtown Fayetteville, cyclists will spend an adventurous weekend navigating the scenic terrain of the Ozarks while self-supporting themselves – carrying the necessary food and gear to ride all day and camp at night! 

The fall colors in Fayetteville will be peaking just as participants head into Fayetteville for a weekend of supported bikepacking through a mix of paved, gravel, and dirt trails! The two-day adventure will provide incredible views, visits to historic sites, and a guided romp through the Ozarks foothills. On Friday night, riders are invited to a free “How to Bikepack” clinic at Pack Rat Outdoor Center, followed by dinner with the co-founders of Bikepacking Roots themselves! 

The overnight portion of the excursion will include a campout at Historic Cane Hill, home to a staggering 16 historic sites and buildings that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Bikepackers will have access to numerous hiking trails, a pavilion, and conveniently situated restrooms. More importantly, it will be a fun and encouraging gathering of supportive new friends bringing the stoke before heading out to ride again the next day! Cyclists will complete their 30-40 mile weekend route through mild climates and rolling hills as they head back to town. After arriving back to Fayetteville on Sunday night, everyone’s invited to join in on after-ride drinks and snacks to celebrate a successful weekend of bikepacking! 

Registration is now open, with the cost based on a sliding donation scale in order to make the event accessible for all. To learn more about the Fayetteville Gathering, visit bikepackingroots.org.