Community First: Making Bikepacking More Inclusive with Bikepacking Roots

The pathway into bikepacking isn’t always straightforward—and even with endless routes and resources online, it can still be hard to know where to begin or how to find your people.That’s where Bikepacking Roots comes in: a nonprofit working to make bikepacking more inclusive, accessible, and community-driven.In this episode, Noelle Battle and Danielle Parnes share what it takes to create a truly welcoming ride—from addressing common barriers like gear and confidence to building non-competitive spaces where people can learn, grow, and show up exactly as they are.Topics include: Noelle and Danielle’s very different entries into the sport—and how that shapes the work they do todayTheir BIPOC Bike Adventure Program and it's fuelling grassroots leadership and gear libraries across the U.S.Their Steward Network and how it connects ride leaders, organizers, and route developers across North AmericaTips for planning inclusive, beginner-friendly group ridesWhy their upcoming summits are about so much more than bikepackingResourcesBikepacking Roots WebsiteCommunity Events CalendarBIPOC Bike Adventure ProgramThe Bikepacker's GuideRocky Mountain Summit Sept. 12-15, 2025Get your Detours stickersFollow Bikepacking Roots on Instagram: @bikepackingroots Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebbFollow Detours on Instagram: @detourscyclingFollow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cyclingUse code DETOURS15 to get 15% off your next order from AlbionIf you enjoy listening please consider pledging your support to sustain producing this show: https://buymeacoffee.com/detourspodcast