2025 Grand Départ
2024 Grand Depart, Photo: Chris George
Sign-up is open!
--> Letter of intent <--
Date: Saturday, August 23, 2025
Time: 8:00 AM
Location: Almonte/Mississippi Mills, Ontario
Distances: 805 km, 380 km, 1610 km
Please read this page and then complete the "Letter of Intent".
Please follow @thelogdriverswaltz on Social Media and watch this page for updates.
Why ride in a Grand Depart?
When you set out on the Log Driver's Waltz as part of a Grand Depart you will find yourself crossing paths with bikepackers who have met up to ride at the same time in a self-guided and self-supported manner.
The Grand Départ is an opportunity to meet other bikepackers and share a common experience. It is a participation event. There is no registration, no support, no insurance and no prizes. It is not a race or organized event. Each rider assumes complete responsibility for their own safety.
Leaving together adds excitement!
The Grand Depart date is set well in advance. Signing up to ride is a commitment to yourself that you will show up on that day. Hopefully you will find that will help with motivation to train and get your bike and gear together. With the date set in advance riders must plan to thrive in what might be less than optimal weather and deal with last minute reroutes as required.
Challenge by Choice:
This year there are again three distances to choose from: 800 km, 380 km and 1600 km. Nobody has completed the 1600 km Rewind; who will be the first?
Riders are encouraged to ride the route at their own pace. There is no time limit for riding the route. Riders may may make their own choices about how closely they follow the route, and whether they ride in a pair. a group or solo.
The Grand Depart is very much challenge by choice.
This is not a race, but some riders are motivated to test themselves against the route under defined conditions. These riders may want to compare their times with peers using the Trackleaders website. These riders may, by their own choice and on the honour system, follow the the self supported "FKT rules" for either solo or pairs.
When you have read everything on this page and are ready to commit, please indicate your intention to ride in the Grand Départ by completing the form the bottom of this page.
What is a Petit Depart or Individual Depart?
The Grand Depart isn't everyone's "cup of tea" nor is it logistically possible for everyone who would like to ride the route. Riders are welcome to start a "Petit or Individual Depart" at any time and any place on the route. Note that the Gatineau Park is closed November 15-May15.
The LDW "Full" Route (800 km)
The Log Drivers Waltz is an 800 km route with 7267 metres of climbing according to RWGPS. The actual amount of climbing, based on data from many riders is closer to 9500 metres. See more information on the first three pages of this website. Riders are welcome to ride the route anytime of the year between May 15 and November 15 as this is when the trails in the Gatineau Park are open to bikes.
The Grand Départ version of the route will be finalized, barring last minute construction or other trail or road closures, two weeks before the ride. Please use the existing route maps on https://www.logdriverswaltz.ca/ for planning purposes.
Solo or Pair?
Riders may ride alone, in pairs, or small groups, it is entirely up to them. One of our goals is to make the Log Driver's Waltz and bikepacking in general accessible and riding as a pair can provide a level of comfort and security. Many riders enjoy the thrill of a solo self supported ride and that works, too!
Often riders meet up with others progressing at about the same pace and will form loose associations that last a few hours or days. For many riders this adds to the experience.
Faster Known Times (FKTs):
Riders interested in riding the route as quickly as they can should consult the Faster Known Times page for more information.
When you set out on the Log Driver's Waltz as part of a Grand Depart you will find yourself crossing paths with bikepackers who have met up to ride at the same time in a self-guided and self-supported manner.
The Grand Départ is an opportunity to meet other bikepackers and share a common experience. It is a participation event. There is no registration, no support, no insurance and no prizes. It is not a race or organized event. Each rider assumes complete responsibility for their own safety.
Leaving together adds excitement!
The Grand Depart date is set well in advance. Signing up to ride is a commitment to yourself that you will show up on that day. Hopefully you will find that will help with motivation to train and get your bike and gear together. With the date set in advance riders must plan to thrive in what might be less than optimal weather and deal with last minute reroutes as required.
Challenge by Choice:
This year there are again three distances to choose from: 800 km, 380 km and 1600 km. Nobody has completed the 1600 km Rewind; who will be the first?
Riders are encouraged to ride the route at their own pace. There is no time limit for riding the route. Riders may may make their own choices about how closely they follow the route, and whether they ride in a pair. a group or solo.
The Grand Depart is very much challenge by choice.
This is not a race, but some riders are motivated to test themselves against the route under defined conditions. These riders may want to compare their times with peers using the Trackleaders website. These riders may, by their own choice and on the honour system, follow the the self supported "FKT rules" for either solo or pairs.
When you have read everything on this page and are ready to commit, please indicate your intention to ride in the Grand Départ by completing the form the bottom of this page.
What is a Petit Depart or Individual Depart?
The Grand Depart isn't everyone's "cup of tea" nor is it logistically possible for everyone who would like to ride the route. Riders are welcome to start a "Petit or Individual Depart" at any time and any place on the route. Note that the Gatineau Park is closed November 15-May15.
The LDW "Full" Route (800 km)
The Log Drivers Waltz is an 800 km route with 7267 metres of climbing according to RWGPS. The actual amount of climbing, based on data from many riders is closer to 9500 metres. See more information on the first three pages of this website. Riders are welcome to ride the route anytime of the year between May 15 and November 15 as this is when the trails in the Gatineau Park are open to bikes.
The Grand Départ version of the route will be finalized, barring last minute construction or other trail or road closures, two weeks before the ride. Please use the existing route maps on https://www.logdriverswaltz.ca/ for planning purposes.
Solo or Pair?
Riders may ride alone, in pairs, or small groups, it is entirely up to them. One of our goals is to make the Log Driver's Waltz and bikepacking in general accessible and riding as a pair can provide a level of comfort and security. Many riders enjoy the thrill of a solo self supported ride and that works, too!
Often riders meet up with others progressing at about the same pace and will form loose associations that last a few hours or days. For many riders this adds to the experience.
Faster Known Times (FKTs):
Riders interested in riding the route as quickly as they can should consult the Faster Known Times page for more information.
The LDW "Half/Demi" (380 km)
The LDW "Half" or "Demi" is quickly gaining popularity amongst riders who would like to ride a shorter route and still have the opportunity to participate in the Grand Départ.
The first 300 km of the LDW Half are the same as the Log Driver's Waltz "Full" so there is plenty of opportunity to meet riders on both routes. At Renfrew the Demi riders turn south east and ride back to Almonte via Pakenham, a good resupply point.
Riders who complete the Half/Demi have much to be proud of and if you wish (we'd love it if you would) will be recognized on the website. Please send your name and a photo of you and your bike ideally at the statue of Dr. James Naismith in downtown Almonte.
A map of the route may be seen by clicking this link. For planning purposes (food, water, accommodation use the map with points of interest (POIs) on this page: https://www.logdriverswaltz.ca/
The <<LDW Rewind<< If you don't think 800 km is enough...
Riders seeking an extra challenge can attempt the "LDW Rewind" which is 1600 km long and has an elevation gain of ~19 000 metres. Riders will ride the route clockwise and on their arrival at Almonte they will turn around and ride it counter clockwise "Rewinding" the route as they go.
This has not yet been completed. Who will be the first?
<<Rewind<< riders should follow the "rules" on self support as laid out for the Grand Depart.
Turnaround Protocol
Note: The Rewind is to be ridden as a continous loop. Resupply from private sources, including rider's vehicles parked at the turnaround, is counter to the concept of "self supported".
Riders may of course avail themselves of publicly available services in Almonte.
Riders seeking an extra challenge can attempt the "LDW Rewind" which is 1600 km long and has an elevation gain of ~19 000 metres. Riders will ride the route clockwise and on their arrival at Almonte they will turn around and ride it counter clockwise "Rewinding" the route as they go.
This has not yet been completed. Who will be the first?
<<Rewind<< riders should follow the "rules" on self support as laid out for the Grand Depart.
Turnaround Protocol
Note: The Rewind is to be ridden as a continous loop. Resupply from private sources, including rider's vehicles parked at the turnaround, is counter to the concept of "self supported".
Riders may of course avail themselves of publicly available services in Almonte.
General Rules for Bikepacking
1. Be self supported.
2. Follow the route.
3. Be nice. :-)
4. Have fun!
Safety
Conduct
1. Be self supported.
2. Follow the route.
3. Be nice. :-)
4. Have fun!
Safety
- Be safe and take sole responsibility for your navigation and well being. Some parts of this route are rough and remote, with minimal services during long stretches. Rest and sleep as necessary to remain fresh and alert.
- When riding, follow rules of the road.
- Respect posted speed limits and other users on paved or unpaved multiple use trails.
- Agree to not engage in dangerous or risky behaviours and if you observe other riders performing such acts to discourage them.
- Store food and other animal attractants appropriately.
- Carry sufficient food and water to reach next resupply.
- Carrying a Tracker device (Spot, InReach) for emergency communication is highly recommended. Riders bear the responsibility for covering any and all costs that may be incurred if they require extraction.
- Flashing (blinking) lights, reflective gear and light coloured clothing, i.e., reflective vests, to make riders more visible are highly recommended. Bikes should be outfitted with lights for riding in the dusk, night or dawn. It is the rider's responsibility to ensure they comply with all applicable laws on this matter.
- Always wear proper safety gear when cycling, including a CPSC certified helmet in good condition.
- Abide by all local, provincial and federal laws.
- On trails and shared pathways be courteous and yield to other users (hikers, walkers, runners, uphill bikers, equestrians, etc.)
- COVID 19/AIR QUALITY and other hazards: Before and during your ride it is your responsibility to educate yourself about current health guidelines, vaccination requirements, proof of vaccination, etc., in all applicable health units/regions in both provinces and to follow them.
Conduct
- No "sag wagons" or following vehicles as this is not in the spirit of "self supported".
- Services along the route are fair game; hotels and other accommodation, restaurants, pubs and stores are all available for use. Camping options both primitive and at campgrounds, and other accommodation options can be found on the RWGPS map and supplemented with your own research. Note: due to the after effects of Covid the hours/days of operation of some establishments may have changed.
- "Good Samaritan": Unplanned assistance from other riders, especially as related to safety is permitted.
- This ride and route rely on the goodwill of the many communities along the way. Please be kind and respectful of private property. Be generous with your support of local businesses.
- Leave No Trace. This route goes through communities and wilderness areas, please respect all areas of the route and leave it as you found it (or better!). If you packed it in, pack it out. More information on "Leave No Trace": https://www.leavenotrace.ca/principles
- Be good ambassadors for bikepacking and cycling in general. For example,
- Do not trespass on private property.
- Ask permission before camping or using private water taps, etc.
- Be polite and courteous to locals you encounter.
- Use appropriate toilet facilities and be discrete when none exist.
Planning your ride:
Trackleaders
There are many reasons to register on Trackleaders and riders are strongly encouraged to do so
In order to register with Trackleaders you need to have a SPOT, Garmin InReach or other supported device with a current subscription. You can borrow or rent if you don't have your own. Any generation of SPOT devices will work and they are readily available secondhand for a fraction of what the new cost of latest version. There is a flexible month by month plan that makes having your own device and activating it when you need it quite reasonable.
The link to register on Trackleaders and the updated route files will be shared with confirmed riders about two weeks before the depart. Set the timing interval to 5 or 10 minutes.
Please don't say "scratched" !
“People say when they can’t complete a route, that they "scratched". We’re of the opinion that anyone that shows up to the start has already put in a great effort. It’s so hard to get to the start these days, let alone complete these things. Ideally, we don’t hear the word scratch,” says Adams. “We have different levels and awards on our website because it’s not possible for everyone to complete the route. But they’ve still gone to their fullest extent. If I ride 200km in two days and that’s as far as I can go, that’s just as valid as someone who rides 800km in two days. Although the route isn’t easy, we want to have different ways to make it accessible.”
Jen Adams in Canadian Cycling Magazine. https://cyclingmagazine.ca/gravel/log-drivers-waltz-grand-depart/
Rider Recognition:
Note: All riders who complete a route or a portion of one (including one overnight) are eligible to submit their time and distance for a Gold, Silver, Bronze, Tourer, or Half/Demi Award. Please submit your time and a photo (Ideally with James Naismith). There is no requirement to be on Trackleaders to have your photo on the webpage. Any times submitted are on your honour. As well as recognizing your accomplishment it is encouraging for other riders who are considering the route. It is also a bit of a serotonin boost for the route developers ;-) . Thanks!
- For planning purposes use the Log Driver's Waltz Grand Depart Collection of maps.
- The Grand Depart Route will be released approximately two weeks before the depart.
- View Route Elevation Profiles (with surface type and communities) here
- Note: Riders have noticed that the actual elevation gains on the route are closer to 9500m!
- Further updates will be announced on Instagram and Facebook (see footer) and via email for those who have completed the Intent to Ride Form
Trackleaders
There are many reasons to register on Trackleaders and riders are strongly encouraged to do so
- Fun!
- Safety: Carrying a SPOT or Garmin allows rider to obtain help when they are out of cell service.
- As a rider it is nice to know that there are others out and about. It adds an element of security for many rides and thus makes the ride more accessible.
- Friends and family can follow your ride
- People can come out to cheer you on.
- It makes it more interesting for all riders who are going for faster times if they know where each other are. Position should be set to transmit at 10 minute intervals.
- It helps build interest in the route as people in local communities become dot watchers, some of these are trail angels who provide water and snacks
- Dot watchers from far away and potential future riders can get an idea of which parts of the route are slower and which are faster.
In order to register with Trackleaders you need to have a SPOT, Garmin InReach or other supported device with a current subscription. You can borrow or rent if you don't have your own. Any generation of SPOT devices will work and they are readily available secondhand for a fraction of what the new cost of latest version. There is a flexible month by month plan that makes having your own device and activating it when you need it quite reasonable.
The link to register on Trackleaders and the updated route files will be shared with confirmed riders about two weeks before the depart. Set the timing interval to 5 or 10 minutes.
Please don't say "scratched" !
“People say when they can’t complete a route, that they "scratched". We’re of the opinion that anyone that shows up to the start has already put in a great effort. It’s so hard to get to the start these days, let alone complete these things. Ideally, we don’t hear the word scratch,” says Adams. “We have different levels and awards on our website because it’s not possible for everyone to complete the route. But they’ve still gone to their fullest extent. If I ride 200km in two days and that’s as far as I can go, that’s just as valid as someone who rides 800km in two days. Although the route isn’t easy, we want to have different ways to make it accessible.”
Jen Adams in Canadian Cycling Magazine. https://cyclingmagazine.ca/gravel/log-drivers-waltz-grand-depart/
Rider Recognition:
Note: All riders who complete a route or a portion of one (including one overnight) are eligible to submit their time and distance for a Gold, Silver, Bronze, Tourer, or Half/Demi Award. Please submit your time and a photo (Ideally with James Naismith). There is no requirement to be on Trackleaders to have your photo on the webpage. Any times submitted are on your honour. As well as recognizing your accomplishment it is encouraging for other riders who are considering the route. It is also a bit of a serotonin boost for the route developers ;-) . Thanks!
Letter of Intent to ride the 2025 Log Driver's Waltz at the Grand Départ, as an Individual Time Trial, or as an Adventure Ride complete the following Letter of Intent.
to sign up complete this form:
--> Letter of intent <--
2025 Riders
Brendan Calado-Luke
Philip Heald
Michael Roe
Jonathan Abitbol
Andrew Durand
Dominique Laliberté
Andrew Forknall
Vincent Kelly
Alain Schlichtig
Rémi Bédard
John Swarbrick
Brieg Capitaine
Emily Lafleche
Carl Presseault
Édouard Gaillard
Sam Diamantstein
Dominique Chalifoux
Eric Moisan
Dom Chung
Brennan Walker
Soo Owens
Sebastien Gagnon
Hilde Geens
Vincent Nadon
Peter van Gurp
Spencer Nafekh-Blanchette
Tim Ducros
John Kieffer
BenjaminHamilton
David Tuttle
Reed Jorgensen
Paul Jorgensen
Chritine Stone
Liam O'Brien
Nicole Maniez
Stephanie Hall
Jen Adams
Eric Betteridge
Anthony Maragna
Mike Stringer
Jonathan Gault
Rider1 Toronto
Brian Blaney
Peter Billingsley
Dylan Forrest
Mathieu Latulippe
Phoebe Gelbard
David Gee
Ben Jankowski
Robertson Gibb
Emma Boivin
Francesca Mercer
Isabelle Vaes
Rider1 Ottawa
Nic Chaya
Kevin Poirier
Erik Nelson
Eric Schoendorf
Rider2 Ottawa
Ross Weir
Val Cyr
Rider1 Gloucester
Joshua Baum
Larry Lackey
Jan Acuff
Alice Barrière
Ed Rinderle
Sarah Konefal
David Wright
Ben Glossop
Andrew Woodside
Sean Swarts
Richard Latulippe
Brendan Calado-Luke
Philip Heald
Michael Roe
Jonathan Abitbol
Andrew Durand
Dominique Laliberté
Andrew Forknall
Vincent Kelly
Alain Schlichtig
Rémi Bédard
John Swarbrick
Brieg Capitaine
Emily Lafleche
Carl Presseault
Édouard Gaillard
Sam Diamantstein
Dominique Chalifoux
Eric Moisan
Dom Chung
Brennan Walker
Soo Owens
Sebastien Gagnon
Hilde Geens
Vincent Nadon
Peter van Gurp
Spencer Nafekh-Blanchette
Tim Ducros
John Kieffer
BenjaminHamilton
David Tuttle
Reed Jorgensen
Paul Jorgensen
Chritine Stone
Liam O'Brien
Nicole Maniez
Stephanie Hall
Jen Adams
Eric Betteridge
Anthony Maragna
Mike Stringer
Jonathan Gault
Rider1 Toronto
Brian Blaney
Peter Billingsley
Dylan Forrest
Mathieu Latulippe
Phoebe Gelbard
David Gee
Ben Jankowski
Robertson Gibb
Emma Boivin
Francesca Mercer
Isabelle Vaes
Rider1 Ottawa
Nic Chaya
Kevin Poirier
Erik Nelson
Eric Schoendorf
Rider2 Ottawa
Ross Weir
Val Cyr
Rider1 Gloucester
Joshua Baum
Larry Lackey
Jan Acuff
Alice Barrière
Ed Rinderle
Sarah Konefal
David Wright
Ben Glossop
Andrew Woodside
Sean Swarts
Richard Latulippe
By using the resources found on this site you agree to the following:
DISCLAIMER AND ASSUMPTION OF RISK
Note: All riders MUST complete this "Letter of Intent"
DISCLAIMER AND ASSUMPTION OF RISK
- This ride is not an official event, nor is it sanctioned in any way, there is no insurance. there is no entrance fee, and there is no prize for finishing.
- Riders are responsible for obtaining their own accident liability, accident and health insurance
- All riders are solely responsible for their own safety and security along the route.
- Anyone riding the route at any time does so voluntarily.
- All riders are solely responsible for their own safety and security along the route including, but not limited to ensuring they carry sufficient nutrition and liquids and get adequate rest.
- There is no support. If you experience a mechanical issue, a physical injury or are simply too tired to continue you (and your partner if riding in a pair) are responsible for finding a solution.
- Riders must recognize that there are inherent risks in this undertaking including, but not limited to, falling off your bike, being struck by a vehicle, serious injury, including but not limited to strains and sprains, broken bones, concussion, lacerations, animal bites, paralysis and death may result.
- This route incorporates multi-use trails, off-road trails and on-road riding. All cyclists are responsible for their own safety, must use trails, streets and roads with caution and do so at their own risk.
- The route should be evaluated by each individual cyclist based on their level of experience and comfort level in cycling on trails and roads.
- It is the rider's responsibility to consider weather conditions, time of day, and any road obstacles when making their decisions to ride.
- This website and the associated Facebook page/Instagram account are only used as a meeting place and area for collaboration and information sharing. The Log Driver’s Waltz website and any and all others involved in the development of these routes do not assume any liability whatsoever for cyclists using this information and travelling upon these routes.
- You agree not to assert liability or bring any causes of action against anyone associated with the promotion of the LDW by way of legal action for negligence or otherwise for any incident(s) experienced while following anyLDW route. You agree that you engage in this activity voluntarily and alone assume all the risk.
Note: All riders MUST complete this "Letter of Intent"
If you enjoyed the Log Driver's Waltz or our other routes, please help cover the costs of developing and maintaining the route files and website. Thanks!
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Please tell your friends all about your experience on the Log Driver's Waltz and encourage them to try it! Thanks!