It started with a “pinky promise” at a weak moment. To ride the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route. The longest off-pavement route in the world running 3083.8 miles (4963 kms) between Jasper Alberta, in Canada to Antelope Wells, New Mexico on the USA/ Mexico border, crossing the Continental Divide 32 times. One Province and five States.
The route is remote, 90% gravel roads and over 200,000 feet (60960 metres) of elevation gain. The highest pass, Colorado’s Indiana Pass, is just under 12,000 feet. (3657 metres) It is a bike packing route where you must carry everything you need on your bicycle. There are long stretches without water or food. It is tough, really tough, long days on a bike.
Over July, August and September 2024 my husband Brian and I took 61 days to complete the route and stand at the finish line in Antelope Wells. There is no welcoming committee at the end, just the fence and a sign at the border crossing, but it is something so special to hold up your bike at that sign and reflect on all you have been through to get there.
With my small Fujifilm camera I wanted to document the ride as I saw it; fellow riders from diverse places and walks of life, people who live and work in the remote places of America, people who shared my tears and laughter, exhilaration and the weariness of long distance bike packing. This is my story of the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route through my lens.
Resilience is something you demonstrate. I learnt that. I had to let go of my limiting beliefs and be really proud of what I achieved. To replace fear with faith in myself. It’s surprising what you can do.
I am Kelly Haybittle, Photographer, Bike Packer, Epic Adventurer, and now, so much tougher, braver, stronger than I thought it was possible to be.