This document will be updated and available on-line at
onix.home.net/greep/outdoors/drumheller_2000/trip_to_hell_er.html.
Last update: June 26, 2000 11:30 AM
July 3, 2000 to July 7, 2000
We're travelling through the rolling prairies on a self-supported bicycle tour to Drumheller, Alberta. Daily travel distances are approximately 80 km, which is considered an intermediate level ride. Travel difficulty will be affected by rain and wind more than terrain. The suggested gear list will take this into account. Our meals will be purchased as we travel through Strathmore and Drumheller, so menu items are subject to availability. Sending any spending money is at the parents' discretion and is not necessary.
Two days travel to Drumheller. The first night will be spent in Rockyford in the back yard of a good friend.
Accomodations in Drumheller have not been finalized and we may not decide until we reach Drumheller. We will spend some of our day trail riding in Horseshoe Canyon. Visit www.cadvision.com/Home_Pages/accounts/nodwells/ and www.virtuallydrumheller.com/tour/horsesho.htm.
Two days return trip to Calgary. The last night will be spent again in Rockyford. Depending on conditions and fatigue, a third day may be necessary.
Storage space is limited, and considering expected headwinds on the return trip, travelling light is recommended. We will be taking advantage of laundry facilities available to us in Drumheller, so take enough clothing for only two days travel. Clothing should be lightweight and preferably synthetic (ie non-cotton). Cotton does not dry quickly enough to prevent a chill.
A bike rack and panniers (saddlebags) are recommended to carry your gear. A rack alone works well for sleeping and rain gear, while the clothing can be carried in a day-pack. Prepare in advance to know how riding will feel when you are fully loaded. If a rack is not available, all gear will need to be carried in a backpack (You'll be on the bike for several hours at a time, so be aware of adding useless weight). We don't expect cool weather, so a lighter sleeping bag liner or blanket could be substituted for a sleeping bag.
Be prepared to carry a portion of the following (to be provided by the ward):