The Dirtbag Diaries Good Good Bad: Golden Gravel Trail
Jan 16, 2026
Professional adventure cyclist Sarah Swallow shares her exhilarating journey bikepacking the Golden Gravel Trail, a new route from Oregon to the Rockies. She opens up about battling anxiety, the physical and mental prep involved, and her emotional encounters with nature, including a memorable herd of elk. Sarah compares this trail to others she's tackled and reflects on the lessons learned regarding impermanence and managing discomfort. With insights on making bikepacking more accessible, her stories inspire future riders to embrace challenges.
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Morning Anxiety In Town Versus Comfort On Trail
- Sarah woke up with an anxiety attack the morning she planned to leave Port Orford and struggled to get moving that day.
- She found being in nature eased her anxiety and she felt comfortable once she was back on the bike.
Route Designed For Accessible Cross-Country Gravel
- The Golden Gravel Trail is a new cross-country gravel route spanning about 3,688 miles and eight states.
- It emphasizes dirt roads and a more bike-friendly, accessible alternative to older dual-sport routes.
Reroute Around Cascades And Boise River Riding
- Sarah was rerouted around the Cascades due to a forest fire and connected back in the high desert near Bend.
- She rode through lush river corridors, hot springs, and massive trees near the Boise River forks.