Great Divide Start & Finish Logistics

[bishop]

ACA has been great to have a list of shuttles to provide me transport to and from the start and finish but what about bike transport?

-Are people shipping to a bike shop or hotel in Banff?  Is there a LBS in Banff to assemble a shipped bike or is it all self-serve?

-And when I get to Antelope Wells I can call a shuttle to come get me but where is the nearest airport and what do I do with my bike?  Are folks buying open-ended flight tickets for the return?  I guess it's two one-way flights?  Do they ship a box to themselves ahead of time for the return of the bike?

Sorry to sound like such a newbie but when I've done big trips before I've usually had a pick-up at the end!!

And I did search the archives but didn't see how this specific issue was addressed previously.  So I apologize in advance if this has already been beaten to death!!   

[aggie]

Not sure about Canada.

The closest "major" airport to Antelope Wells is El Paso, TX.  The next is Tuscon, AZ.  There are bike shops in both cities that can pack and ship your bike.  You could also take Amtrak in either city.  Amtrak sells a box that fits just about anything other than a tandem or recumbent.  Personally I prefer to take Amtrak.  It may take longer but the lack of hassle is worth it.  You could also use one of the bike shipping services after a LBS packs it for you.

[indyfabz]

If you have the maps, local shops should be listed.  A quick Google search also shows a couple, but they are in Canmore.  If a shop has a service department it's likely they will be willing to receive a bike and assemble it for you (for a charge).  I recommend making a "reservation" because in popular areas shops can be very busy during the height of the season.  We shipped to Whitefish, MT last June and the shops strongly suggested that we reserve an "assemble by" date.

Agree that Amtrak is easier than flying, and the bike charge is much less.  If that doesn't work for you, a LBS will almost certainly box and ship your bike home via FedEx, UPS, etc.

[afie]

There are a couple of shuttle companies than run from Chihuahua to Phoenix and Tucson ferrying Mexican family members. They pass through the border a couple times a day, can take your bike in the back and cost about $50. Calling a taxi from Silver City would be expensive.