The Seventh Annual 7 Summits Bike and Hike Challenge will get underway on Sept. 14.
It starts by cycling up the Main Street of Barkerville and that afternoon, (seven mountains, seven stages, and 7,000 feet of elevation gain later) participants arrive in Wells having completed one of the most interesting, scenic and expansive day hikes/bike rides of their lives.
This unique bike and hike challenge is widely heralded as an achievable but epic adventure and receives popular support throughout the province, as well as a wilderness stewardship award from the Wilderness Tourism Association.
Its goal is to get people into the mountains, challenge their abilities, celebrate and raise awareness about the fragile alpine environment and raise money to support the Friends of Barkerville, who have been instrumental in preserving and protecting many of the trails we use.
Due to its design, goals, and ethics, this unique showcase event is also endorsed by the Cariboo Mountain Bike Consortium.
The 7 Summits Challenge is meant to be completed, not necessarily won. The poker run and awards for “seventh place” and “Most Average Time” are meant to acknowledge enjoyment, not just competition, for this event. Most of the 75 to 100 participants end up travelling in social groups of equal paced individuals, who love travelling in the mountains. Some are hikers, some are die-hard bikers and this year, there are some trail runners going “bike-free.”
The 2013 Bike and Hike Challenge starts at 7:30 a.m. in Barkerville and registration is accepted until the Thursday before the event. Registration is $50, includes unique swag, mid-race lunch, and snacks. The event finishes with a banquet at the Bear's Paw Cafe, and registration is limited to only 100 participants.
For more information on the event, photographs or registrations, visit www.7summitsbikeandhike.org.