Bikepacking Survey

Help us create something amazing

Shape the Future of Bikepacking at For-rest Retreat

Help us create the events, rides, and resources you actually want in the Kootenays.

We’re planning more bikepacking adventures from For-rest Retreat and want your input! Whether you’ve joined a past event (like the June campout) or are just curious, your ideas will directly shape what we offer next — from ride formats and themes to workshops, resources, and logistics.

This quick survey takes about 5–7 minutes. Your responses are anonymous unless you choose to share contact info at the end. Thank you for helping us build better experiences in the beautiful Kootenays!

About You

How would you describe your current bikepacking / gravel cycling experience level?BeginnerSome experience but still learningIntermediateExperiencedExpertI’m interested but new to the idea

How many bikepacking or multi-day gravel/overnight cycling trips do you typically do per year?01–23–56+

Have you attended a previous For-rest Retreat bikepacking event?YesNo, but I’ve been followingNo, this is new to me

PLease let us know which bikepacking event you have attended

Please describe a bit about yourself..lifestyle, where you live etc (optional)

Event Formats & Styles

Which of the following event formats interest you most?Select your top 3Basecamp style (ride loops or out-and-backs from For-rest each day, return to camp/sauna each night)Point-to-point or one-way with some support/shuttleFully self-supported multi-day (camping along the route, minimal support)Skill-building focused (shorter rides + hands-on clinics)Themed or special-interest events (e.g., women’s-only, photography, wildlife/nature focus, beginner-friendly, full-moon/stargazing, e-bike friendly)Multi-event series or “bikepacking season” style (several smaller events per year)Other (please describe)

What other event would you like to recommend?

What group size feels ideal for the kind of experience you want?Small & intimate (6–12 people)Medium social (12–25)Larger group energy (25+)No strong preference

Would you prefer events that are:Mostly acoustic bikesE-bike friendly or mixedDedicated e-bike eventsNo preference

Activities & Workshop Ideas

Beyond the riding itself, which of these would most enhance your experience?On-site sauna + cold plunge sessions integrated into the eventYoga, mobility, or stretching sessionsHands-on workshops (bike maintenance & repairs, GPS/navigation & route planning, lightweight bikepacking packing systems, wilderness first aid/safety, photography/content creation)Evening talks or storytelling (guest speakers, trip reports, local ecology/history)Nature-based activities (guided walks, birding/plant ID, Leave No Trace, stargazing)Creative/art elements (e.g., block printing, journaling, group photo walks)Group meals or shared food experiences beyond the included pizzaOther

How important is easy integration with For-rest amenities (sauna, on-site trails, yurt gatherings, etc.) to your decision to attend?Very importantNice to haveNot a big factor

Information, Resources & Learning

What kind of information or resources would be most valuable to you?Curated local route GPX files + turn-by-turn descriptionsKootenay-specific bikepacking guides (water sources, resupply, weather patterns, wildlife/bear safety, camping regulations)Gear & packing recommendations tailored to the region and seasonsBeginner-friendly guides and skill tutorials (written or video)Safety, risk management, and group riding best practicesStories, inspiration, and real trip reports from the areaOther

Please list your other suggestion here

Would you find value in a regular For-rest Bikepacking newsletter, blog, or resource library (routes, tips, seasonal updates)?Yes, veryMaybeNo thanks

Logistics & Practical Preferences

What time of year or season are you most likely to join a For-rest bikepacking event?Spring shoulder seasonPeak summerFall shoulder seasonWinterSpecific months you prefer

Please list the month

What event length appeals to you most?Single-day ridesOvernight basecamp (1–2 nights)Multi-day point-to-point or loop (3+ days)Mix of formats

What are the biggest barriers that might prevent you from attending a For-rest bikepacking event?CostTime off work or schedulingLack of gear or confidenceTravel distanceWeather or season uncertaintyGroup size too big or too smallNot enough info/support for beginnersOther

Please list your other reason here

Rough budget: What feels like a reasonable per-person cost for a well-organized 2–3 day bikepacking weekend from For-rest (including some meals, camping/organization, and basic support)?Under $100$100–200$200–350$350+It depends on what’s included

Please Explain

Open Ideas & Final Thoughts

What is one thing that would make you significantly more likely to sign up for a For-rest bikepacking event?

Do you have a dream event idea, theme, route, or format you’d love to see offered from For-rest Retreat?

Any other suggestions, feedback, or comments about bikepacking events in the Kootenays or at For-rest?

Would you like to be added to our bikepacking email list and our For-rest Retreat newsletter for future event announcements, early-bird notices, and route resources?YesNo

Please add your email address