Adventure Cycling

Adventure Cycling Association, a nonprofit dedicated to inspiring and empowering people to travel by bicycle, has its roots deeply embedded in Missoula, Montana. Established in 1973 as Bikecentennial, the organization was founded by Dan and Lys Burden, along with Greg and June Siple — four cyclists whose ambitious Hemistour expedition from Alaska to Argentina set the stage for a nationwide cycling movement.

In 1972, the foursome left Anchorage to cycle to the southern tip of Argentina, a journey that would later be featured in National Geographic (May 1973). While Dan and Lys had to cut their journey short due to illness, Greg and June completed the trek, and the group returned to Missoula with a new vision: to organize a cross-country ride celebrating America’s bicentennial in 1976. They named it Bikecentennial, and it became the foundation for what is now Adventure Cycling.

Adventure Cycling’s headquarters, located at 150 East Pine Street in Missoula, serves as a welcoming hub for cyclists traveling the TransAmerica Trail and Lewis & Clark Trail, both trails use the Bitterroot Trail. The organization has since expanded its network to include over 52,000 miles of mapped cycling routes, but the TransAmerica Trail remains a significant connection to its historic roots.

Feeling inspired? Cyclists visiting Missoula are encouraged to stop by the Adventure Cycling office to share their stories and learn more about the trail network.