INTO THE OUTDOORS. Take backpacking on two wheels with bikepacking! Not sure how to get started? Learn the basics at an upcoming Eau Claire event. (Photos by Dave Schlabowske)

No, it’s not a typo: Bikepacking mixes all-terrain bicycling and backpacking, encouraging folks to venture farther off the beaten path for overnight or multi-day adventures with essential gear on their backs. On April 17, locals will have the chance to learn more about bikepacking from area experts and rent gear to try it out themselves!

Head on down to the Compass Bike Lab (2113 Brackett Ave., Eau Claire) at 5pm on Wednesday, April 17, to join Dave Schlabowske of Life Above 8 and Tim Kreuger of Esker Cycles for a free learning experience and hangout at the “Eau Claire Rendezvous: Bikepacking 101” event.

Dave, an avid bikepacker from Seeley, Wisconsin, who has earned several awards for creating routes, will bring the Bikepacking Gear Lending Library he maintains. Folks will be able to see the different bikepacking bags, sleeping systems, different shelters, and gear available to borrow. Dave will set up tents, air mattresses, bikepacking bags, and more, to see in person. Tim will display a variety of bikes from Esker Cycles.

You can borrow gear from the Lending Library directly at the event to give bikepacking a go before investing in personal gear. You can also bring your own bike and get bikepacking bags fitted to it.

A short presentation will highlight different routes in northern Wisconsin. Dave will recommend GPS navigation systems and bikepacking sites he refers to for routes and gear reviews.

And if you’re already an experienced bikepacker, swing by with your rig and some stories from a trip to share with the group!

The “Eau Claire Rendevous: Bikepacking 101” event is hosted by The Nxrth and Life Above 8. See the Facebook event for updates and more info.