We’re currently getting our hands dirty on the 17th issue of The Bikepacking Journal, our one-of-a-kind print publication, which will be making its way to members worldwide this winter. As always, this edition brings together a thoughtfully curated collection of stories, essays, photography, and art that capture the many sides of bikepacking—from high-alpine adventures in far-flung corners of the world to remote deserts and quiet backroads close to home. It celebrates creativity, exploration, and the people and places that make bicycle travel so compelling. Even better, issue 17 memorializes the art of making things by hand, with an original illustrated cover, hand-drawn maps, and a poster-sized print created by some incredibly talented humans. Read on for details.

Since its launch in 2018, we’ve always placed a high priority on commissioning illustrators to add depth and creativity to the storied pages of The Bikepacking Journal. Here are a few snapshots from past issues.

Within the colorful pages of issue 17, you’ll find two illustrated maps by our friend Alex Hotchin. Her watercolor-and-ink maps have been a mainstay in The Bikepacking Journal since issue 03, which featured her illustrated map of the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route and a lovely set of drawings that accompanied Alexandera Houchin’s story, Ditibised. For this one, Alex is working on maps for the Lagunas y Salares and Chama Charmer, which will complement two stories set on the routes. We can’t wait to see the final artwork!

Behind-the-scenes photos one of two included maps from artist Alex Hotchin

As for the cover, some of you may recognize it from the Lapias route in Portugal, which we published just last week. We were so taken with the artwork that we commissioned its creator, Miguel “Almirante” Reis, to adapt it for the cover of issue 17 and illustrate a complementary back cover—but you’ll have to wait to see that when it arrives in your mailbox! We’ve dreamed of featuring an illustrated cover on The Bikepacking Journal for many years, and we couldn’t be more excited to have Miguel’s beautiful work finally bring that vision to life.

Last but not least, our 17th issue will include a fold-out, poster-sized map illustrated by the talented Chris McNally. Stay tuned for more on that later this week.

Across 160 beautifully printed pages, The Bikepacking Journal 17 brings together an exceptional group of writers, photographers, and illustrators whose stories and artwork capture the spirit of adventure in all its forms. The new issue will go to press soon, and we’re excited to share it with our Builder- and Sustainer-level members worldwide this winter.

A preview of a few of the many striking images featured in the upcoming issue by Johan Wahl and Marcus Nicolson

Becoming a Bikepacking Collective member is the best way to enable our work here at BIKEPACKING.com, where we’ve been publishing in-depth articles, inspiring stories, original routes, and news daily for nearly 15 years. Beyond having the option to receive The Bikepacking Journal, joining also means you’ll be automatically entered for a chance to win one of the great prize packages in our upcoming Collective Reward giveaway drawing, can use the suite of tools in our new Basecamp, will have access to 100+ exclusive discounts from some of our favorite companies, and much more.

If you’d like a copy delivered to your doorstep, now’s the time to join the Bikepacking Collective. As a reader-supported platform, BIKEPACKING.com relies on members to make projects like this possible. Sign up by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on Saturday, October 17th, to receive the new issue, along with a range of additional benefits, including access to over 100 members-only discounts, one of around 15 Collective Reward giveaways, and our Bikepacking Collective Basecamp tools.

Only in Print

We believe there’s something special about a thoughtfully crafted print publication—one you can hold in your hands, linger over, and return to long after the first read. Every story in The Bikepacking Journal is exclusive to print, carefully edited, designed, and produced at a world-class printing facility. From original writing and photography to commissioned illustrations and custom maps, every detail reflects our commitment to human creativity and the enduring value of tangible storytelling. We’re incredibly proud of this project, and it remains a cornerstone of the Bikepacking Collective.

Detail shots from press checks of earlier issues

Curious what it’s all about? You can browse select spreads from past issues or read our Bikepacking Journal Manifesto to learn more about the vision behind it and why it remains such an important part of what we do. Thanks for your support!