The Log Driver’s Waltz (LDW), developed by Jen Adams and Eric Betteridge, is an 800km bikepacking route showcasing the beauty of the Ottawa Valley in Ontario, Canada. The team curated the route as a contribution to the bikepacking community to share the backcountry gravel and dirt roads and local towns in their area.
In discussions with riders about inclusion, Jen learned that a lack of relevant information can be a major barrier for new bikepackers, so she and Eric expanded the Log Driver’s Waltz website in hopes that the information they provide will make bikepacking more accessible. Resources, including routes of varying lengths, ride reports, GPX files complete with points of interest, and more can help aspiring bikepackers plan a successful trip.
The Log Driver’s Waltz can be completed as a tour, as a race with the Grand Depart (July 29, 2023), or as an individual time trial at a time of your choosing. For those interested in the Grand Depart, a second 380km option is available in addition to the classic 800km route.
This spring they are hosting their first Spring Rally (May 12-14, 2023). The Spring Rally is limited to 30 participants, and 50 percent of the available spots are reserved for people who identify as women, trans, or non-binary. During the Rally, participants will ride unsupported and camp at a common destination each night. This will be an accessible way to learn more about bikepacking by doing and give riders a chance to socialize and share experiences.
If the Log Driver’s Waltz is on your list, or you’re interested in learning more about bikepacking in general, the LDW crew would like to invite you to their upcoming Bikepacking for All online panels.
The first panel is scheduled for January 25th at 5 p.m. EST and is open to those who identify as women, trans, and non-binary. This discussion, moderated by Jen Adams, is intended to be a safe place for folks to learn about bikepacking and the Log Driver’s Waltz. Panelists Marketa Graham, Marie-Pierre Savard, Laetitia Tam, and Kim Fera will answer questions and share their experiences. The Log Driver’s Waltz crew is hoping to improve gender diversity among LDW participants through efforts like this panel.
If you are unable to attend the first panel or if you identify as male, LDW is hosting a second panel on February 1st. This panel will be moderated by Eric Betteridge, co-founder of the route. The panelists for this event are Cory Ostertag, Parham Momtahan, and Kim Fera. Their wealth of knowledge will benefit both new and experienced bikepackers.
Both of the panels are free but do require pre-registration. You can learn more about the panels and find the links for registration on the Log Driver’s Waltz webpage.
