Gravel Bikepacking Challenge
An epic journey of self-reliance, gravel dust, elevation gain, and pure freedom along Quebec's finest backcountry routes.
Next Edition to be announced...
Official Formats
2 Challenges Tailored to Your Goals
250 KM
Semi-Bikepacking
A dense 1 to 2-day immersion to embrace the true spirit of gravel bikepacking on a spectacular route.
- ✓ First bikepacking test
- ✓ Official GPX track
- ✓ Finish line meal
100 KM
Gravel Day
A pure single-day gravel ride over scenic rolling backcountry lanes without heavy bivouac gear.
- ✓ Aid stations
- ✓ Mechanical support
- ✓ Finisher medal
Safety & Self-Sufficiency
Mandatory Athlete Gear
The GBC crosses remote forest sectors with limited cell coverage. To guarantee safety, a mandatory technical check of your equipment is conducted at bib pick-up.
Gravel Setup & Bikepacking Frame Bags
01
Mandatory at Night
Lighting & Visibility
- • High-power front headlight: Minimum 500 verified lumens with battery life for 8 hours.
- • Rear red taillight: Steady or flashing, visible from 200+ meters.
- • Reflective safety vest: Required on any road sections between dusk and dawn.
02
Checked at Start
Navigation & Communication
- • Dedicated GPS bike computer: Garmin / Wahoo / Hammerhead with sufficient battery or power bank.
- • Official GPX track: Loaded and verified prior to the pre-race briefing.
- • Smartphone in waterproof pouch: Fully charged with backup 10,000 mAh battery pack.
03
Vital Safety
Survival & First Aid
- • Space blanket (aluminized foil): Intact, min size 140 x 200 cm.
- • Pealess emergency whistle: For audio signaling in deep forests.
- • Hydration capacity: Minimum 1.5 L carried on the bike at all times.
04
Total Autonomy
Mechanics & Field Repairs
- • Flat repairs: 2 inner tubes + tubeless plugs + pump or 2 CO2 cartridges.
- • Multi-tool with chain breaker + 1 quick-link compatible with your chain.
- • Spare derailleur hanger: Highly recommended given rocky wilderness tracks.
Visual Immersion
The Gravel Bikepacking Epic
Scenic backcountry roads, raw forest double-tracks, and the pure passion of gravel cycling.
Navigation & Routes
Mapping & Official GPX Files
All routes are scouted and field-tested. GPX files will become available for download when registrations open.
Semi-Bikepacking
250 KM GPX Track
• Average: +3,200 m elevation gain
• Average: 82% Gravel / 18% Paved rural
• Mid-point bivouac stage designated
Gravel Day
100 KM GPX Track
• Average: +1,450 m elevation gain
• Average: 85% Fast-rolling gravel
• Multiple aid stations along course