From the inspiring to the tragic, ‘Adventure News of the Week’ presents a wrap-up of top news in the world of exploration and adventure.
BIKE: ‘Bikepacking Roots’ Christens Famous Bike Route. Because the term “Wild West” has harmful connotations for some Indigenous members in the cycling community, the Bikepacking Roots organization opted to re-title the route of the same name.
The idea is to better convey the original intent of the name: a tribute to the lands of the American West. The route — which runs through Montana, Idaho, Utah, and Arizona — will now be known as the Western Wildlands route. Learn more about the re-naming decision here.
SKI: Ikon Pass Launches ‘Shred for Sustainability’ to Plant Thousands of Trees. Ikon Pass is partnering with American Forests to help repopulate forests. As part of the initiative, Ikon pledged to plant a total of 22,500 trees throughout six projects.
And you can take part — the top 10 Ikon pass-holders with the most ski days from each North American resort will get 50 trees donated in their name.
BACKCOUNTRY: Mammut and The Lady Alliance Bring Back Virtual Adventure Safety Event. Mammut and The Lady Alliance will team up again to host a second virtual Adventure Safety Tour. The event includes a 20-hour online avalanche safety and winter celebration experience.
As it was previously, the event will feature appearances from pro athletes, instructors and guides, and more. It will run from November 13 to 19. Registration is free. The Lady Alliance works to educate and empower women in the outdoors.
RACE: TransRockies Announces Partner Sponsors for 2021. TransRockies Race Series announced Felt Bicycles as its presenting sponsor of TransRockies Gravel Royale. The new stage race series will take place in British Columbia from August 23 to 26, 2021. The new 4-day race focuses on gravel riding in Canada.
BRAND: Smith Creates Partnerships, Enters Ski Racing Domain. Smith is partnering with U.S. Ski and Snowboard and the Austrian Ski Association (ÖSV) to support athletes in training and competition. This winter, both ski teams will compete in Smith’s new FIS-approved Icon helmet, designed specifically for high-speed impacts.