HU Travellers Meeting Canwest 2024
THE PREMIER OVERLAND ADVENTURE TRAVEL EVENT
FOR MOTORCYCLISTS & TRAVELLERS ON 2, 3 OR 4 WHEELS!
21st Horizons Unlimited CanWest Travellers Meeting
Thursday July 11 to Sunday July 14, 2024 - Nakusp, BC
It's All About Overland Adventure
Whether you're a seasoned veteran with wisdom to share or a complete novice hungry for ideas and guidance, it doesn't matter if you ride a motorcycle, a bicycle, or drive an expedition vehicle...Horizons Unlimited meetings are for everyone who dreams of adventure along the road less travelled.
Inspiring, Informing & Connecting
Some people value Horizons Unlimited events for what they learn from the unique line-up of presenters. Some people value the chance to discover new products and services at the trade stands. Some people value just kicking back with a beer among old friends and new.
Most people enjoy a little bit of everything, and everyone goes home fired-up for adventure with a smile on their face.

The event will include a packed schedule of presentations and activities. All within the relaxed and friendly atmosphere that Horizons Unlimited is known for.
Horizons Unlimited Canada West Event Schedule
The event is taking place from Thursday July 11 to Sunday July 14, 2024.
The Registration Tent will open for check-ins at 1 pm on Thursday, with the first presentations beginning at 2 pm. Final presentations will be on Saturday, with cleaning up and packing up on Sunday.
Over the course of the event there'll be over 50 talks, demonstrations, workshops, Q&A's, challenges and competitions, with many presentations being repeated so you won't miss out.
As well as hearing inspiring stories of overlanding adventure from around the world, you'll get the low-down on preparing for your journey, navigation, first-aid, photography, filming and a host of other essential topics. Whatever your past experience or future plans may be, there's something for everyone.
The event schedule will be available for download here approximately 1 week before the event.
PLEASE NOTE: The schedule is subject to change at any time - all the presenters are volunteers and travelling, thus they may be delayed or unable to get there. Some may have anxiety attacks and be unable to perform! ;-) And sometimes travellers show up unexpectedly with great pics and stories, so we try to fit them in! Details of changes to presentation times or other matters of note will be posted at Registration and other locations.
Presenters at HU Canwest 2024 - so far!
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Ekke KokSolo to Panama / |
1) Solo to Panama
Ekke's first solo adventure ride
Audrey and Ekke had travelled through 83 countries, 80 of them by motorcycle by 2020. They were planning to spend the summer in Europe, riding the Alps when the pandemic hit. Tragedy befell them when Audrey was diagnosed with an extremely aggressive brain cancer that summer. In November, she passed away leaving Ekke with clear instructions: "Your job is to travel out on your motorbike. What else?"
In 2021, Ekke went to Europe as soon as Germany lifted some of their travel restrictions and spent the summer with family and friends, riding his motorbike. Audrey and Ekke had some unfinished business from their 2016/2017 ride around South America. An injury took three months out of their trip, and they had to skip Central America on the return home. In the fall of 2021, Ekke decided to finish that portion of their ride. This is the story of Ekke's solo ride to Panama.
2) Muscat to Munich
A ride with GlobeRiders from Muscat, Oman, to Munich, Germany
A month after Audrey passed away, Ekke received a message from Helge Pedersen of GlobeRiders that a spot was open on a tour from China through the Himalayas to Bangkok. Ekke had never done an organized tour before but he had also never done an adventure tour without his travel partner, Audrey. He signed up for the tour, but with COVID and the Russian invasion of Ukraine the tour was postponed and then cancelled altogether. Helge offered the Muscat to Munich expedition and Ekke accepted even though by this time he had done his first solo ride (See presentation Solo to Panama). This presentation will be the story of Ekke's first organized tour, in Spring 2023.
EKKE KOK is a retired engineer who has travelled to 90 countries, 87 of them by motorbike. Audrey and Ekke travelled around the world, as far north as Nordkapp and as far south as Ushuaia, as far east as Japan, and as far west as Alaska.
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Rene Cormier, Renedian AdventuresChoosing the Right Guided Tour for You! / |
1. Choosing the Right Guided Tour for You!
Learn to read between the lines on glossy websites to avoid surprises
Guided motorcycle trips can be a great option for riders who either don't have time or don't care to do detailed research about a foreign place to ride. To research the tour operator, the best way would be to find a connection with personal previous experience who can provide an unbiased opinion of a trip you are interested in. Without that connection, you will need to wade through the companies supplied marketing material to make sure the trip is going to fit your style of travel.
Learn to read between the lines about what is included, what is not, the routing and scheduling, and other tips before committing to a trip. Take home a list of questions you need to ask any tour operator before sending them money for a trip!
2. The University of Gravel Roads
(Also a published book!)
Take a quick jaunt around the world with Rene Cormier as he highlights some of the fun moments captured in The University of Gravel Roads: Global Lessons from a 4 Year Motorcycle Adventure. Big adventures on little budgets, as told with his usual enthusiasm and chutzpah.
Rene's story is also featured in HU's Road Heroes: Part 1 DVD.
Click on the image below to watch a little video about it.
RENE CORMIER completed round the world motorcycle trip in 2009, and the same year started Renedian Adventures, a guided motorcycle tour company operating in Mongolia, southern Africa, South America, and Canada. He is the author of "The University of Gravel Roads: Global Lessons from a 4 Year Motorcycle Adventure".
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Susan & Grant Johnson, Horizons UnlimitedHow It All Started |
Technically, "it" all really started with our first date in 1984. It wasn't long before we hit the road, two-up on a 1986 BMW R80GS, a couple of years later, unknowingly ending up doing a RTW (round-the-world) over the span of 11 years. At the time, websites weren't a thing yet. Like many overland travellers at the time, and there weren't that many, travelling and planning were a bit more challenging.
A lot has happened since then and we've learned and experienced a ton! Too much, in fact, to keep to ourselves. There's a world to explore, and people and cultures to befriend... and Horizons Unlimited evolved to what it is now with a global network of HU Communities that connect fellow travellers and emerging adventurers just like you. This is our story.
For those who don't know us yet, we are GRANT and SUSAN JOHNSON. We founded Horizons Unlimited in 1997 while we were on our 11-year, north-to-south around-the-world trip, visiting over 40 countries. Since then, we've been helping folks to achieve their dreams of overland travel to faraway places. Horizons Unlimited has become the global home of motorcycle travel, a worldwide network of travellers helping other travellers.
Workshops and Educational Sessions
...because Horizons Unlimited meetings are about information, not just inspiration!
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Ryan Austin, Enduro Park CanadaRiding & Surviving / |
RYAN AUSTIN is the owner of Enduro Park Canada, Certified BMW Off-Road Instructor, BMW Tourguide, and Master Police Motorcycle Instructor.
1) Riding & Surviving
Advanced riding techniques, police motorcycle operations + training, and 30 years of major collision investigations
Seminar about Advanced Training techniques, Police Motorcycle operations & training, and 30 years of major collision investigations with Sgt Ryan Austin (Ret.). This action-packed talk covers collision causation, advanced training techniques used by Police motorcycle operators, Motorcycle VIP escort team operation videos, and real world tips to make your riding safer and more enjoyable.
2) Off-Road Skills Training - Learn to Ride Like the Pros
(PRE-REGISTRATION STRONGLY RECOMMENDED)
Returning to HU CanWest 2024 are three of Canada's top BMW-certified Off-Road Instructors. Owner Sgt Ryan Austin (Ret.), Jim Sprang, and Caroline Stevenson will be on-site giving riders training and talks on the Adventure of Off-Road riding! Learn from Canada's only full-time BMW Off-Road training company. Introduction to Off-Road and Advanced Rider courses.
Some sessions are free; active rider training is paid sessions. More details below.
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Caroline StevensonTrailside Motorcycle Maintenance and Repair |
Planning for your motorcycle trip is exciting! Taking tools and equipment for trailside repairs is practical. Knowledge of your bike is crucial. But how to choose what tools and equipment can be mindboggling. How much is enough?
I will share my approach to this using real examples that have happened to me. I will discuss and show tools, tyre repair equipment, nuts and bolts, engine and electrical fixes, fluids, and how I pack them on my bike. I will focus on the practical and realistic options and fixes. There will always be some things that cannot be done on the trailside and recovery back to base camp or town may be required.
CAROLINE STEVENSON began riding motorcycles in the UK in the early 1990s. Things really took off when she moved to Kelowna, BC, in 1999. In 2001, she became MSF certified and a traffic instructor for new road riders, and soon after, a motorcycle skills assessment officer. After moving to Lethbridge, Alberta in 2010, off-road riding and the BMW GS Trophy beckoned. She was hooked. In 2015, Caroline had an opportunity to take part in the first International Female Team GS Trophy qualifier in South Africa representing Canada. Her ultimate goal was to become a certified BMW Off Road Instructor which she achieved in Hechlingen, Germany in 2016, and is now an instructor with Enduro Park Canada. Caroline is a passionate and enthusiastic rider and instructor with a penchant for excellence in low speed, precision technical riding. Her main rides are the R1200GS Rallye and BMW 450x. She has trials bikes and several dirt bikes. Basically, she loves anything with two wheels.
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Jim Sprang, Enduro Park CanadaGPS is a Crutch! Introduction to Nav |
Over-reliance on satellite technology has eroded away our spatial awareness and connection with the "journey" . When using it, you become more focused on your device and less on your overall surroundings. Learn the fundamentals required to, instead, immerse yourself in the broader scale and greater details that paper maps give us. This results in an advantage in geographic perception which directly contributes to the enjoyment of adventure riding.
JIM SPRANG is a retired naval officer, a certified BMW Off-Road Instructor, and a lifelong rider. He has ridden extensively in America, Europe, the Middle East, and north Africa. His passion is those places "off the beaten track" and the roads/trails required to find them.
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Susan Johnson, Horizons UnlimitedFour Easy Steps to Motorcycle Adventure Travel |
We know lots of those travellers, people who have done amazing trips to every country in the world, too. We asked these veteran travellers to tell us their stories and share their tips with us. The main message is that you don't have to be rich or famous or young or heroic or super-fit to travel. Anyone can do it, and we're here to tell you how!
Get Ready // Gear Up // Get on the Road // Come home and plan your next trip!
It can be that easy. We will share some stories and tips from other travellers, and also tell you some things that we learned from our travels, in many cases the hard way. It's how we created the Horizons Unlimited Motorcycle Adventure Travel Guide video series - available only on Vimeo. There's also lots of great pics from our calendar contest.
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Grant Johnson, Horizons UnlimitedBike Mods and Ergonomics! Tire Changing! |
Grant will host a bike 'Show and Tell' - bring your bike and show us your favorite travel mods. Critique and discussion.
When you picked up your new bike, did they take the time to make it fit you? You'll learn the amazing difference a properly setup bike makes to your riding fun. Maybe you're already feeling knots and kinks in your muscles after a long ride? It may not be you. It could be your bike!
Grant's ever-popular "Bike Ergonomics" demonstration at an HU Travellers Meeting.
Tire Changing Workshop
Grant demystifies the dark art of tires. Considering the fact you really can't rock'n'ROLL without tires on your travels, you don't want to miss this workshop. This session is absolutely perfect if you're newer to riding motorcyles or a bit nervous about travelling because flat tires give you the willies. The only time Grant likes using the word "conquered" for travel is when you deal with tires. :)
By the way, HU's TIRE CHANGING! instructional video can be purchased and streamed anywhere from Vimeo. Keep on practicing along with Grant in the comfort of your own home shop.
Grant's even-more-popular "Tire Changing Workshop at an HU Travellers Meeting.
LOTS of presentations to come! As people register to present we'll list them here.
How about you? We're all here to learn, and there's LOTS to learn! We want to do more presentations and seminars - but we need volunteers to give them! Any topic you can contribute having to do with motorcycle travel, maintenance, planning etc, lasting 20 minutes or more, would be great. Please contact us here to volunteer.
Panel discussions at most HU events include...
Border crossings - How to get through borders with minimal stress and cost!
Packing light - Tips and techniques from experienced travellers to reduce weight and bulk.
Regional discussions - e.g. travelling in South America or Asia.
For Women Only - A must for the ladies, so be sure to plan on being there! A chance to talk to experienced travelling women without the men around!
Experienced Travellers Panel - ask the experts anything you want!
Walk arounds / Show and tell!
Tool Kits - Show us your favorite tools. Toolkit discussion.
Tents and Bedding discussion (in the camping area) - What works, cheap vs dear and which ones keep you dry, warm and comfy!
Farkle Walk - Take a stroll and talk about your best bike mods - homemade saddle bags, toolbox mounts, GPS mounts, seats, side stands, tank panniers, cup holders, etc.
PAST Presenters at HU Canwest have included...
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Tracey Martin and Miles McEwingIndia by Tuk-Tuk - Piloting an Auto-Rickshaw 3,500 km across the Indian Subcontinent |
We've visited nearly 50 countries outside of our home in Canada - many of them aboard our motorcycle sidecar rig. In 2011-2012, we traveled 30,000+ km through 4 continents and 20 countries. In 2013, having settled back into a somewhat normal life at home and granted only three weeks of annual vacation time, our travels appeared to become more limited in scope.
Or did they? In 2013 and 2014 we completed our round-the-world overland journey by motorcycle, automobile, rail and ship.
So what would 2015 hold?
Of all the places we had visited, one country beckoned us back - India. After our first visit, we didn't feel as if we even began to understand the country and its' culture. The people, sights, sounds, smells, and huge contrasts were so overwhelming that our four-week visit just wasn't enough time to process them. So, the mission for 2015 was to tackle India once again.
And what better way than our favourite mode of transport - 3 wheels.
But not just any 3 wheels - an auto-rickshaw; the ubiquitous 'Tuk-Tuk' of Indian taxi drivers, known for being completely unreliable, difficult to steer, unsteady to drive, and very, very small. Built for short jaunts at slow speeds, an auto-rickshaw appeared to be not-at-all suited to the journey and seven horsepower just might not be enough to traverse the Himalaya. We had no set route and no back up support. It was just the two of us, our brave/what the hell was he thinking friend Richard Desilets, and two weeks to get from the furthest west city in the country, across desert, jungle and mountains to one of the furthest east points in the country.
We had no way of knowing if we would make it.
The only certainty was that:
we would break down,
we would get stuck,
we would get lost,
we would be exhausted,
and we would have one heck of a lot of fun.
Mission accomplished - on all counts!
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Craig HaggartFly+Ride Mini Adventures / |
CRAIG HAGGART operates an electron accelerator in Palo Alto, California, and enjoys minor adventures like riding a Ninja 250 to Baja, moto-camping in the southwest on a CBR600 sport bike, racing a 1966 Honda CB160, riding in Costa Rica and Nicaragua on rented bikes, and, of course, volunteering at Horizons Unlimited California. (HU says: A great guy! Say hi.)
1) Fly+Ride Mini Adventures
It's a common dream to ditch everything and go on a round-the-world ride, but that dream just isn't practical for many of us due to career and family commitments. There is an option, however, for scratching that adventure-ride itch: fly somewhere and ride a rented bike for a few weeks! The focus here will be on Latin America, but if you have recent experience with other destinations, please feel free to join in and share any practical details that might help fellow riders.
2) Smaller Bikes for ADV Riding
Most of us have probably heard the truism that nobody comes home from an adventure ride saying, "I wish I'd ridden a larger bike." While that might not match everyone's experience, it is clear that lots of people do amazing trips on small -- sometimes VERY small -- motorcycles. If you've ever wondered about the practicality of doing a bit of adventure riding on a bike that you could actually pick up if it falls over, please join this discussion about the pros and cons of preparing and riding smaller bikes for travel. If you have personal experience to share, all the better -- audience participation is gladly encouraged!
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Elle West and Jeremy Kroeker, Motorcycle TherapyCanada to Argentina / |
1. Canada to Argentina
Thirteen months on the road with COVID border closures
Mostly slides and stories from 13 months on the road, from Canada to Argentina. A side trip to Antarctica, and getting stuck in South America for five months when borders close. How Jeremy and Elle got moving, got stuck, and got home. (There will be several short videos, around five minutes each.) Q and A to follow.
2. Bolivia, Chile, Argentina
Wind, gravel, motorcycle crash, and emergency camping
Four videos (ranging from 10 minutes to 20 minutes each) that take Jeremy and Elle from Bolivia, through Chile, and into Argentina all the way to Ushuaia. In Argentina, the pair face maddening wind on a loose gravel road, crash their motorcycles, camp in the ditch, and question their resolve to continue. Q and A to follow.
JEREMY KROEKER is the author of two motorcycle travel books, Motorcycle Therapy and Through Dust and Darkness. With his KLR650, he has ridden through over 30 countries on five continents. Meanwhile, visit and subscribe to Jeremy's YouTube channel!
ELLE WEST is a motorcycle instructor who has ridden her BMW F700GS from Alaska to Panama (twice!), and once from Canada to the southern tip of Argentina. She's also a co-star on Jeremy's YouTube channel!
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Kyle Emerson, Ranee Niedermeyer, and Mark WegenerHeidelberg to Cape Town |
After three years of planning and Covid delays, three friends from Oregon, USA - Kyle, Mark, and Ranee - embark on a moto adventure from Germany to South Africa following the western coast. They will cover the origins of the trip, preparation, and their experience on the road during their epic adventure.
Ranee, Mark, and Kyle hail from Oregon and share a penchant for adventure riding whenever they can.
RANEE NIEDERMEYER rides pillion and has travelled with partner-in-adventure, Mark, from Portland, OR to Santiago, Chile in 2015; multiple trips through Canada and the American West; and from Heidelberg, Germany to Cape Town, South Africa in 2022-2023.
MARK WEGENER is a self-professed normal guy with a passion for adventure. He started riding in 2013 with a trip to Alaska on a 2013 BMW F800. With numerous off-road rider training under his belt, he has tackled many BDR routes, the Continental Divide Route, and the journey from Prudhoe Bay to Santiago, Chile. He currently owns two 2016 BMW R1200 GSAs.
KYLE EMERSON started riding in 2005 throughout the Blue Ridge mountains of eastern Tennessee. Multi-day adventures on any surface feeds his adventurous soul, including daily commutes and frequent weekend rides. He's currently soaking up as much of the U.S. Pacific Northwest as possible.
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Krista HarrisSee the World Without Shipping Your Bike |
Krista and Dan have travelled extensively on their own 650 touring bikes in North and South America, but shipping their bikes to Vietnam did not make sense for a number of reasons. Find out what it was like to have very little gear and very little bikes in a little, but amazing, country. There will also be bonus stories about the wonderful country of Vietnam, how to stay alive there, and why it should be on your list of places to ride.
KRISTA HARRIS and DAN van DALFSEN are a couple of semi-retired folks who came to riding later in life, but have worked hard to catch up on what they missed. In the summer of 2015, they went to Inuvik, and by the end of that year, they were in Ushuaia... but that was only the beginning.
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Paul SaundersDefinitely South America Indefinitely |
People can view thousands of photos on Instagram, etc., of many world moto travelers, yet these same travelers often will not or cannot answer all the questions they receive about their journey. So I want to answer any questions about my two South American journeys (with photos alternating in the background, maybe) from wild camping spots to best food to how the locals helped me after getting knocked off a bridge by a truck on my moto (and how the bike still worked!). You have heard it before, the hardest part is beginning the journey, but, once commenced, the rest is easy and incredible.
PAUL SAUNDERS "retired' in his late 30s to travel the world by moto and, so far, he has loved South America so much that he rode from Colombia to Argentina twice, in 2016 and 18-19. He just can't get enough...
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Scott Collins and Stephanie Arias, The Adventure CoopRealities and Lessons Learned on the Road / |
1. Realities and Lessons Learned on the Road
The emotional, physical, and adrenal stress that will leave you feeling like you've hit a wall
After embarking on our biggest trip yet, we realize that life on the road isn't as easy as we thought. Join us to discuss our realizations about travel stress, getting a good nights sleep, and team work.
2. Canada to Panama Roundtrip for Two
Our first long road trip - during a pandemic and broadcasted to the world... how will we do?
Chasing the life long dream, in a world gone pandemic crazy, because there is no time but the present. If riding to Panama and back isn't complicated enough, start a YouTube channel and document your travels while on the road. Come see how we manage to pull this off.
STEPHANIE ARIAS grew up in Canada and attended circus school in Europe for five years after high school. She loves to travel and discover new things and the beauty this world has to offer. Being on a motorcycle brings you closer to everything.
SCOTT COLLINS is a motorcycle mechanic, racer, and traveller who has travelled by motorcycle in Vietnam, Sri Lanka, North America, and Central America. He enjoys riding with groups and friends.
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Denise and Normand FortierDeep Dive in Central America |
We opted to start in BC and go as far south as we could!
After our carefully planned trip from Kamloops to Ushuaia got squashed by COVID months ago, we decided one November morning, "That's it, we need to go. Any destination is a good one". In mid January 2022, we left BC two-up on our trusted Suzuki DR 650. Amongst lingering snow and residual Omicron fears, we rode south to see what we could make happen. This allowed us to travel slower without the drive to reach "Tierra del Fuego".
We took time to discover more, about Mexico for sure, but also about the Central American countries that are often neglected in our quest to reach Ushuaia. Colourful Guatemala, surprising Nicaragua, beautiful Costa Rica, and unassuming Panama were all a pleasure to discover. Border crossings were not nearly as bad as anticipated. Latest info for long-term bike storage in Panama will be discussed. In the end, the best trip is the one you can do now.
DENISE and NORMAND FORTIER have been travelling two-up for the past 10 years on a variety of motorcycles ranging from 125cc(!) to 1000cc in over 40 different countries in Europe, North America, Central America, and a small foray in Asia.
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Angela and Michael Greer, Twonie ProjectMoroccan Honeymoon |
Sharing a love for travel and adventure, newlyweds Michael and Angela envision travelling the world by motorcycle when Michael retires in 2022. Although both are experienced travellers, their styles are quite different: Angela has enjoyed day trips from tropical five-star resorts, while Michael's previous adventures include backpacking in East Africa, scuba diving in Thailand and working with orphans in rural Bolivia.
In preparation for their upcoming RTW adventure, Michael and Angela set out on a trip to test some new bikes, a new travel style and a new relationship. Learn what they discovered about themselves, each other, and about riding a couple of Africa Twins as Michael and Angela present the humour and the trials of their adventurous honeymoon in Morocco.
Separately, Canadians MICHAEL (a career naval officer) and ANGELA (a retired real estate developer) have many years of tarmac riding and travel experience. Recently married, they plan to travel the world by motorcycle and do charity work when Michael retires in 2022.
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Elle WestA Woman's Perspective on Motorcycles |
ELLE WEST is an advocate for women in motorcycling, sharing her passion as a motorcycle instructor in Calgary, Alberta. While riding through Colombia in 2019, she proudly served as a guardian for the Women Rider's World Relay, before completing her journey through the Americas.
Why does gender matter? What difference does it make in terms of riding a motorcycle? Let's talk about motorcycling from a woman's perspective. Comfort, safety, fit, and appearance; differences in our bodies and how these differences affect our experiences on the bike in and the gear.
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Megan Kaptein, The Motorcycle HubRiding Route 16 / |
Riding Route 16
A motorcycle tour through the heart of British Columbia from the Rockies to Prince Rupert
Like many moto travelers struck with an insatiable wanderlust, travel often calls to exotic and off-the-beaten track destinations while backyard adventure remains overlooked. I had never ventured north of Pemberton on a motorcycle until last summer when two friends and I embarked on a remarkable 3,000 km ride around central BC. Riding through varied landscapes including the majestic Rockies, ancient rainforests, volcanic lava beds and rugged coastal terrain, we experienced the beauty of BC in its fullest while broadening our understanding of First Nations culture and history, and appreciating the wildlife that abounds in that region.
MEGAN KAPTEIN is a creative hybrid with experience working as an actor, designer, and marketer. Travel is her greatest muse and few things in life bring her as much joy as being on two wheels.
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Janet Wilson and Tom Feuchtwanger, CanadaOverlanding before the digital age |
This talk will descibe what it was like to go on the road for an extended length of time 40 years ago, before the advent of digital aids.
'Overlanding' is not new, only the term is. In 1974 shortly after we were married and had just graduated, Janet and I took every penny we owned and flew to Germany from our home in South Africa. Here we purchased a used Renault 12 which became our home and mode of transportation for the next 8 months. From Germany we headed east to Turkey then west to Lisbon after which we traveled all the way to the Arctic in Norway.
We ended our European adventure in Munich, after which we returned home with $25 in the bank, a bun in the oven and one possession; a pair of reindeer horns from Lapland. The trip started a life long love affair with overlanding which continues to this day. The talk will be a trip down memory lane for those with grey hair and an education for those without!
Janet Wilson and Tom Feuchtwanger have a deep love of travelling the world, exploring it's wilderness, wildlife and peoples. During the early 70's they spent many years living in the African bush where Tom worked as an exploration geologist. Their first overland adventure in 1974 was in a Renault in which they traveled around Europe.
They completed 3 overland trips circumnavigating 80,000km across Africa. In 2010 they drove from Alaska to Argentina completing a 65,000km overland journey in 18 months.
"Nothing is more addictive than traveling off the beaten track across the globe. 87 countries and still on the move."
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Olivier PrestonHow I Fell in Love with Riding |
No one plans to fall in love. That's how it was for Olivier. At 23-years-old, with no plan, no prior experience, and even less money, he's just back from a solo motorbike trip in Vietnam and India. He learned to ride a bike in Vietnam... after he bought the bike... and travelled 4000 km from Ho Chi Minh to Hanoi. He then rode along the border to China for 10 days, followed by a trip through the Spiti Valley in the Himalayas in India for 20 days, having rented a Royal Enfield Thunderbird in Manali and traded some items for a tent in India. He's big on inspiring people to ride and travel as they are "by far the coolest experiences of (his) life."
It doesn't have to be that complicated to make a trip like this happen. Olivier didn't plan his trip in India until he arrived there, and relied on meeting people and asking questions. He firmly believes riding a motorcycle is one of the best ways to visit a country now and is very excited to do some more travelling by bike. While he encourages people to ride in the Himalayas in India or Nepal, he's a huge fan of the Spiti Valley which is a hidden gem for motorcyclists - a popular recommendation based on conversations with many motorcyclists from India.
Olivier just graduated university and is totally smitten with riding. Now that he's back in Canada AFTER his travels, he'll be getting his motorcycle license soon!
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Francis Walsh, VanIsle ADVenture MotoThe Adventure Starts... When The Plan Falls Apart |
With plenty of collective experience and loads of preparation of both ourselves and our bikes, a plan was carefully put together to travel in 2017 to Mongolia and beyond. Unplanned events (interestingly enough, all of them happened after participation in an exorcism) such as a head-on collision, denied border entry, expiring visas, and a lost passport resulted in formulating Plans B, C, D, and more. How did it turn out? How many letters are in the alphabet? It was quite the Adventure!
Like most first-generation Irish-Chinese Canadians, FRANCIS WALSH was bitten by the travel bug early. He's been fortunate to have visited 60+ countries on six continents in the past 30+ years, traveling by motorcycle or sailboat whenever he has the chance. His wife tells him his insatiable wanderlust is due to this being his first time on this planet (as far as he knows).
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Bob ForsterFly Your Bike - Quick Trip to Europe |
In June 2017, Bob and Tracey flew their R1200GS bike from Calgary to Frankfurt to start a 26-day trip through Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Austria, and the Italian Dolomites before returning home. They'll share the pros and cons of shipping your own bike vs. renting, the costs involved, and the documents required. They'll talk about their planning, what went right, what went wrong, and what they'll do differently next time. And, of course, their experience of the places where they stayed, the people they met, and the roads they travelled.
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Maria Schumacher and Aidan Walsh, Following TarmacKangaroos and Corrugations |
1. Kangaroos and Corrugations
You'd think riding around a first world country like Australia would be plain sailing. And in a way it is: spare parts are easily available and everyone speaks English. It's the rhythms of nature that will pull you this way and that, taking you on a wonderful rollercoaster ride of adventure, survival, and riding fun. The twisties in the snowy mountains will have you lose all track of time while lusciously green Tasmania seems like a world of its own, with wild Tasmanian devils and Pademelons wandering the mushroom carpeted fields. Australia's centre is so vast that a house number like 13501 is not unheard of and people have to drive for miles to mail boxes of any shape and size they fancy. You'll have to bring extra fuel, water and rations just to make it between neighbouring cattle stations, and Jackeroos heard cattle by horseback, motorcycle or helicopter. Bikers across the country will warn you that you shouldn't watch the helicopter in the sky, but flee the inevitable stampede it forebodes. We'll be telling tales of riding through Australia's eastern mountains, exploring Tasmania, traversing the dry and dusty centre, avoiding crocodiles in the north, enjoying encounters with the locals, and - if we have time for it - the wonderful west, too.
2. The length of India - Not on an Enfield
We'll tell you how to go about buying a bike in Delhi that isn't an expensive Enfield (it can be done even without the help of the famous Lali Singh). Then we'll share tales of our 6-month adventure riding around India. First, the freezing cold and stunningly beautiful Himalayas, through the recently flooded Srinagar, where we lived on a boat. The deserts of Rajasthan and the Pushkar camel fair. Bootlegging in Gujarat with its dried up salt planes that flood in the rainy season, almost cutting it off from the rest of India. Christmas amongst the ruins of Hampi and living with a tribe in the tea mountains, and the stunning hippie beaches of Goa and the waterways of Kerala. And, finally, we'll tell you how to sell the bike again.
It's time to regain your riding legs - maybe you've been brushing up on your skills, or maybe it's long past time you did? Got a new Adventure bike, and finding it a little intimidating? Your first experience on gravel was terrifying, or disastrous?
Get an extra confidence boost by taking off-road and slow speed skills training at the CanWest event!
Sign up when you register!
Enduro Park Canada
Off-Road rider training by the Enduro Park Canada Team!
Arriving at CANWEST 2024 are 3 of Canada's top BMW certified Off-Road Instructors. Owner Sgt Ryan Austin (Ret.), Jim Sprang and Caroline Stevenson will be onsite giving riders training and talks on the Adventure of Off-Road riding! Learn from Canada's only full time BMW Off-Road training company.
Advanced Rider Training
The Advanced Rider course was created by Sgt Ryan Austin (Ret.) After years as a Master Police Motorcycle Instructor and Expert in Collision Reconstruction. These courses give riders the Advanced Handling and Collision avoidance skills previously only taught to Police Motor Officers. After 17 years this course is offered from BC to Ontario and in a number of US cities where it has been recognized not only for the skills it provides to riders of any level, but for the unique teaching methods employed by the Advanced Rider Training Instructors.
Learn to Ride like the pros!
Classes at CanWest 2024:
Introduction to Off-Road:
The perfect short session for riders new to off-road adventure riding or looking for the perfect refresher. Learn the fundamentals of bike set-up, riding position, and slow speed balance and maneuvering. This session is intended to be fun and stress-free where riders learn some amazing fundamental skills.
Free - 30 mins
Off-Road Rider Training:
In this session, riders learn hands-on skills for low-speed maneuvering of their adventure bike: a skill deficiency found amongst even the most experienced riders. Riders learn Enduro turns, body position off-road and improved balance and clutch / throttle control that will make their off-road and on-road riding safer and more enjoyable. This session is critical for all riders.
Sign up for training!
Training takes place each day on the event grounds. Openings are limited to maintain a good student-to-instructor ratio. This ensures a better training experience for all! Registration closes when we're full.
PRE-Registration is strongly recommended. There MAY be spaces available on the day, there may not!
All classes run if there are at least 5 students. If not enough students, we may move you to another slot.
All classes:
SUITABLE RIDING GEAR IS REQUIRED FOR PARTICIPATION. IT IS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE RIDER TO SELECT A HELMET AND APPAREL THAT WILL PROVIDE APPROPRIATE PROTECTION. RIDERS MUST RELY ON THEIR OWN JUDGMENT IN THE SELECTION OF HELMETS AND APPAREL FOR PROTECTION AND DURABILITY.
Note:
The focus for all training is on Slow-Speed maneuvers. Key fundamentals for newer off-road riders and excellent tips for more experienced riders, especially those coming from an all street background. Slow speed maneuvers are THE KEY to successful off-road riding.
On Saturday afternoon, you can put your freshly-honed skills to the test in the CanWest Adventure Travel Challenge. There will be prizes!
These events are open to ALL CanWest attendees, and you don't have to have done the training to compete (but it might help...)
Sign up at Registration.
MINI-HUMM (Horizons Unlimited Mountain Madness)!
What the heck is a HUMM?
A unique motorcycle orienteering / navigation challenge, the HUMM has also been described as an off-road motorcycle scavenger hunt. There is no set course, so you make your own adventure! Winning demands strategy, teamwork, riding and navigation skills and pure fun!
"The best 48 hours of my life! (apologies to my wife!)"
HUMM Monashees - Darcy Black finds a tag!
HUMM Monashees - by Chris Provencher
Mini-HUMM
For the HU CanWest 2024 Travellers Meeting, we are offering a taster, a Mini-HUMM. This 4-hour event (08:30-12:30) will be offered on Friday and Saturday mornings. You ride one or the other, not both. An overall winning team will be for the two events combined.
HUMM Monashees, checking book on the trail, pic by Ken Delathouwer
The Mini-HUMM will be open to all HU CanWest attendees, but the numbers will be limited, so sign up when you arrive. There will be prizes for the winning team, and it's only $30 to enter!
"The most fun you can have on two wheels!"
HUMM Monashees - like the view?
The Adventure Travel Zone
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Exhibitors - So Far
Rene Cormier from Renedian Adventure Ltd. will be here to answer all your questions about the adventure tours he leads and organizes in Africa, Mongolia, Canada, South America, and Scotland. "Renedian Adventures has been a premium provider of global motorcycle tours and travel since we opened our doors 11 years ago, so come ride the world with us! We will take you to the ends of the earth, from the top of North America to the southernmost city in South America. From big game safaris in Africa to Mongolia's remote Gobi desert, our tours will leave you with unforgettable memories." |
Canadian Motorcycle Rentals is a 100% mobile company serving the three beautiful British Columbia cities of Vancouver, Kelowna and Penticton.
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Renedian is proud to be the exclusive North American distributors for Turkana Gear, quality soft motorcycle luggage that is adventure tough and well priced. Turkana Gear is proudly made in South Africa and designed to last for years of real world motorcycle travel. Our Renedian crew uses many of these products on our tours in Mongolia, Africa, Patagonia, and Canada. |
Melanie MacCarthy from ROK Straps Canada will be there with ROK Straps elastic cargo tie-downs for Bikes, ATV's, Camping, Hiking etc. |
If you know of any other motorcycle or travel equipment vendors or tour operators who should be there, please suggest it to them!
Exhibitors, more details and registration here. Please contact us if you have more questions.
Facilities for a Fantastic Four Days!
The HU CanWest 2024 Travellers Meeting will be held in Nakusp, BC. Activities will be primarily at the Nakusp Arena and the Nakusp Municipal Campground, which we completely reserve for the event. We have a fantastic menu of catered food at the event itself.
Although Nakusp has a population of under 2,000, it's a tourist destination and thus has a fantastic range of accommodation including camping, restaurants and shopping choices (in the summertime, anyway!)
Nakusp Lake
Camping
We have reserved the entire Nakusp Municipal Campground for this event. Camping is NOT included in your registration fee! Tent camping is a very special price for us of $21 per tent per night. (Regular price is $27-$35). Motorhome price (powered) is $31 per vehicle per night.
Powered sites are extremely limited, only for medical issues, CPAP machines, etc. Choose 'Powered Site' when registering, and indicate in the comments why you need it (you can charge your phone/tablet at the Charging Station at the Reg Desk). Motorhomes can also use the powered sites, you must register as a motorhome - fee is $31 per night.
The powered spaces have 50 amp sockets for motorhomes, so you WILL NEED an adapter. You may be able to buy one in town, but safest is to bring your own! If you check in early, BE SURE to clarify with the campground attendant that you are with us.
Also note, there are NO RESERVED SPACES from Thursday Jul 11 through Saturday Jul 13. You will be sharing sites, so plan to make new friends!
Nakusp Municipal Campground Map
Nakusp Municipal Campground Policies
- Dogs are welcome but must be tethered and or on a leash at all times.
- Owners are responsible to pick up feces as per Village Bylaws.
- Firewood is available for purchase from the campground manager.
- Quiet time is 10PM to 7AM
- R/V Generators may only be used from 9AM to 11AM and 6PM to 8PM. Generators must not be left on attended.
- Fires are permitted in fire pits only and are subject to fire bans
- Do not burn garbage in your fire pits, and please do not damage the trees.
- Campground speed limit is 5km/hr
Glamping
Riders Retreat
1-250-265-8043
Rebecca at Riders Retreat offers motorcycle friendly camping (glamping?), with an outdoor kitchen, all bedding, cooking and camping supplies provided. Rebecca is a super hostess who also runs the bar at HU events! Be sure to tell her you're with Horizons Unlimited!
"Riders Retreat is the ideal place for motorcyclists who love to camp. Situated on the Golf Course in Nakusp, BC, we offer camping, and a furnished RV and Bus. One feature that sets us apart from any other campground is our equipped tent sites, which include your tent, bedding, lanterns, chairs, coolers and a picnic table. All set up and ready to go. So feel free to pack nice and light.
There are washrooom and shower facilities available, which include all your towels, soap, shampoo and conditioner, as well as a community cooking area equipped with pots and pans, BBQ's, cookstoves, dishes, silverware, spices and basically anything you would need to feed the weary traveller."
Hotels / Motels
The Lodge at Arrow Lakes
Phone: 1-800-663-0100
Centrally located in Nakusp within walking distance to all amenities, public beach, arena and campground. The hotel has two main accommodation areas at different prices.
The main building has a restaurant (Arrow Lake Tavern), lounge, liquor store and 28 guest rooms. The Tenderfoot Annex is newer, has 19 rooms. We have stayed here and can recommend it.
Selkirk Inn
Phone: 1-800-661-8007
The Selkirk Inn is centrally located, has 39 rooms, most air-conditioned and many of them include kitchenettes. No restaurant on site. We have stayed here, and it is clean and comfortable.
Canyon Court Motel
Phone: 1-888-509-4499
We haven't stayed here, but this motel gets good reviews. Per their website, the rooms all have air-conditioning, cable TV, fridge, microwave and coffee maker and free wi-fi. Larger units have a full kitchen and separate bedroom.
Leland Hotel
1-250-265-3314
The Leland Hotel is the Oldest Hotel in BC, in operation since 1892. It also has the best location in town, overlooking the lake, and a good restaurant that takes full advantage of the views. All rooms have air-conditioning, wi-fi, fridge and microwave. Some rooms allow pets.
We haven't stayed here, but we have had reports that on weekends the rooms near the bar can be quite noisy, so be forewarned!
Bed and Breakfasts
The Nakusp Visitor Info Centre at 92 6th Ave. NW (just off the main street, Broadway) is super helpful and can assist with reservations for bed and breakfasts, of which Nakusp has many! Let them know you're here for the Horizons Unlimited event!
Toll Free: 1-800-909-8819
Food
We recommend the Food - Deb Guest, the caterer is highly praised every year! These dinners are an excellent way to meet fellow participants and talk to presenters, and since you're eating right there on site, you won't miss any of the after-dinner slideshows.
Dinners - 2024 Menus
Thursday - Greek - Chicken Kebabs, Greek Salad, Spanakopita (spinach pies), rice pilaf, lemon creamsicle cake, coffee, tea or soft drink.
Friday - BBQ Ribs, baked potato, hot veggie, tossed salad, Strawberry Shortcake, coffee, tea or soft drink.
Saturday - Awesome Roast beef, yorkshire pudding, new potatoes, peas, carrots, Caesar Salad, Tiramisu Cake, coffee, tea or soft drink. Vegetarian: Chick pea cutlets with Miso gravy.
Please PRE-BOOK dinners with your registration. There will be limited amounts available for late-comers. You MIGHT be able to get it on the day, but it's first come first served!
CanWest 2017 - Canada's 150th and Horizons Unlimited 30th Anniversary cake!
Breakfasts & Lunches
For 2024 you will have an option for convenient breakfast and lunch on site. You can, of course, cook for yourself, or go to cafes or restaurants in Nakusp.
We have the best caterer in the Kootenays!
Breakfasts and Lunches
Deb Guest, our caterer, will offer pre-booked breakfasts on Friday and Saturday morning from 8-9AM and lunches from 12-1PM (see menu under Pricing).
Restaurants
Nakusp has heaps of restaurants to suit everyone's budget. We have eaten at many of them over the years, but not all of them! These are just a few of your dining options.
Caffe Lago, Leland Hotel is one of our favourite places to chill, big deck overlooks the lake.
Chumley's Restaurant has a nice outdoor seating area. Arrow & Anchor Pizza does fantastic pizzas - try the S'Mores dessert pizza! Did we mention Nakusp is very motorcycle friendly!
Hoss and Jill's does excellent breakfasts and lunches and is open at 7am. It was very popular with our crowd in 2023, as you can see!
Shops
There are lots of shops in Nakusp! Just a few of the pics on Broadway Street, which is the main shopping street.
Grocery choices include Save-on-Foods, which is a good-sized supermarket. There is also an organic food store and a deli, which also serves meals.
The Home Hardware is well-stocked. There are lots of clothing and handicraft shops.
CIBC Bank is the only major bank in town, but their ATMs accept other bank cards, with a service charge, of course! There is also a Kootenay Savings Credit Union.
Hopefully you won't need to visit it, but good to know that Arrow Lakes Hospital is located in Nakusp.
I've already registered - I just want to pay!
PRE-REGISTRATION PRICING FOR FULL PASSESIncludes admission to all slide shows Thursday, Friday and Saturday, |
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Pre-Register & Pay before: |
Full Event Price |
Weekend Price |
December 1, 2023 Feb 1, 2024 July 5, 2024 |
89 104 119 |
65 75 85 |
AT THE EVENT PRICING (APPLIES AFTER JULY 4, 2023)Pay Cash or Card on Arrival |
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Full 4 Day Pass Weekend-Only Pass (arriving after 6 pm Friday) Saturday Day Pass |
134 99 60 |
MEALSYou can pre-book all meals (available through our caterer, Deb Guest). There MAY be individual meals available at the event, and Nakusp has cafes and restaurants. There will be vegetarian alternatives, so let us know your preferences when you register. |
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Thursday Dinner - Greek - Chicken Kebabs, Greek Salad, Spanakopita (spinach pies), rice pilaf, lemon creamsicle cake, coffee, tea or soft drink. |
26 |
Friday Breakfast -Scrambled eggs, pancakes, bacon, sausage, hash browns, yogurt, fruit salad and toast, coffee, tea, juice. |
23 |
Friday Lunch - Build your own burger (beef, chicken or veggie), all the fixings, salads and watermelon slices, soft drink. |
22 |
Friday Dinner - BBQ Ribs, baked potato, hot veggie, tossed salad, Strawberry Shortcake, coffee, tea or soft drink. |
26 |
Saturday Breakfast - Omelette and Ham, hash browns, french toast, yogurt, fruit salad, juice, coffee, tea. |
23 |
Saturday Lunch - Make own wraps (Mexican Burritos), salads and fruit, ice cream, soft drink. |
22 |
Saturday Dinner - Awesome Roast beef, yorkshire pudding, new potatoes, peas, carrots, Caesar Salad, Tiramisu Cake, coffee, tea or soft drink. Vegetarian: Chick pea cutlets with Miso gravy. |
28 |
ACCOMMODATIONCamping is not included in your registration. There is lots of room for camping! For 2023, we have reserved the ENTIRE campground for Thursday through Saturday night, so you can pitch up wherever you like UNLESS YOU NEED POWER! Camping prices are PER TENT (OR MOTORHOME) PER NIGHT. |
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Camping - unpowered site |
21 |
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Camping - medical powered site |
22 |
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Motorhomes - powered site |
31 |
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Note: Powered sites are limited, so you will probably be sharing. Regular Campsite price is $27-35 per night. |
days to go!
Join the discussion:
On the HUBB!
On Facebook!
HU CanWest Supported Charity
The HU CanWest Supported Charity for 2023 is Arrow Lakes Search and Rescue. Part of the BC Search and Rescue Association, operating out of the Village of Nakusp, this team was founded in 1975 and has 30 volunteer members.
As motorcyclists and travelers, we appreciate the services provided by Arrow Lakes Search and Rescue, though we all hope not to need them!
You can support Arrow Lakes Search and Rescue by donating at the event on Saturday evening.
Thanks for your support.
HU CanWest Photos
- by Gerry Muza
What happens at HU events?
Comments about HU Events
"So many trips, tips, subjects, discussions, questions, answers, experiences, insights... I could go on and on. I will be back, and back, and back."
"It was like being with family... a friendly group with shared love of adventure."
"Everyone was humble, genuine, and encouraging, and I really needed that kind of 'we're all just people' kind of atmosphere."
"You'll see and hear the most useful ideas on so many subjects that it boggles the mind."
"Full of very inspiring people who got me fired up again and motivated for my next trip!"
"What a fantastic inspirational weekend...we will be back."
"I have picked up so much information... and met some new friends and wonderful people."
"...a new league of awesomeness."
"Great atmosphere and camaraderie, especially at dinner time, and interesting presentations."
"I have learned so much, made some great mates and met some of the best people. I was buzzing by the time I got home. I have a little trip planned and just can't wait to get out there."
For more about HU Events, see some magazine articles here.
You can help!
If you have a few minutes, please download the poster (Adobe pdf format) and print off a few and hand them round your club or your local bike shop or anywhere seems like a good place.
Poster in pdf format (1.4 MB) full colour Event poster.
POSTCARD!
Postcard in pdf format (432kb) full colour Event postcard:
Hi-res postcard can be printed 4 to a page
You may need to right click and choose "save target as..."
Thanks!
Join the Volunteer Crew
From welcoming travellers at the gate, to taking care of the campsite and making sure all the presentations run smoothly, the success of every HU event relies on the enthusiasm of its volunteer crew.
"What a wonderful bunch of people. I had no idea how much fun I'd have by helping out!"
"It was my absolute pleasure to be able to give something back to the HU community and working with such great folks really made the event special."
Volunteering is a great way to make new friends, get more involved with Horizons Unlimited and have loads of fun! You can sign up to volunteer when you register for the meeting, OR click here if you have already registered and want to add volunteering.
Be a Presenter
We're inviting submissions for presentations, so whether you're attending the event or exploring a distant continent, if you've got a story to tell or expertise to share we'd like to hear from you.
We love to hear stories about your travel adventures, especially if you have great pics! Also, practical how-to sessions such as roadside cooking, navigation / GPS, trip prep and planning, adventure motorcycling medicine, packing light, setting your bike up, communications / blogging from the road, self-publishing your story, yoga for bikers, bodging / bike maintenance, self-defense, photography, videography, tire repair, safe riding techniques, how to pick up your bike, off-road riding, all are of interest.
There are 45 minute and 100 minute sessions available for talks, workshops, demos and live web chats.
Click here to submit your ideas
PLEASE NOTE:
Submitting a Presenter registration DOES NOT mean you will automatically be included in the schedule, as we can have more presenters than available presentation slots. We will confirm one way or the other as soon as we can (but not immediately!)
Departing or Returning?
If you're planning an expedition, why not make the Horizons Unlimited meeting your official start point? Or maybe you're nearing the completion of a journey and would like a very public welcome home? Of course you might just be passing through and fancy marking a key stage of your travels?
We'd love to make you a big part of the meeting, so feel free to get in touch and tell us your plans.
Book your Exhibitor Stand space
Over the course of four days, this Horizons Unlimited event offers a unique opportunity to build awareness of your brand and talk directly to potential customers.
The Adventure Travel Zone occupies a central position at the event site and is exclusive to trade stands representing the overland adventure travel market.
Choose between our Premium and Standard packages, both of which include on-site advertising and can include a presentation about your products and services. Be sure to let us know you want to do a presentation when you register.
Canada West Venue Location
Nakusp Arena and Campground
200 8 Ave NW, Nakusp, BC
50.241037, -117.810248
Venue is at Nakusp Arena, 200 8th Ave NW, Nakusp; and the municipal campground is around the corner at 4th Street at 10th Avenue, NW.
Nakusp is located 47 km. (29 miles) north of New Denver on Highway 6. Nakusp Airport is located 3km north of town.
Driving Distance / Time to Nakusp:
From | Distance |
---|---|
Vancouver | 664 km |
Seattle | 481 - 533 miles |
Calgary | 511 km |
Edmonton | 805 - 920 km |
Missoula | 448 miles |
Denver | 1341 miles |
San Francisco | 1127 miles |
NOTE: If you're coming from the USA, some of the more remote, smaller border posts close at 5PM.
Where are we in Nakusp?
Information about the area
Attractions include national parks all around, fantastic roads that are easily among the best in the world, beautiful lakes and more, so plan to spend a few days!
This whole area is full of amazing roads! See Destination Highways for a book on BC Roads (paved)- some of the best are right near Nakusp.
Thanks to Ken DeLathouwer and Virginia Lane of the 'Sask and the Furious' for this short video from HUMM Monashees 2017, showing the spectacular riding in the area!
Hot Springs
Nakusp Hotsprings and Halcyon Hotsprings are close by, and there are a number of free bush hotsprings too.
Tourism Information
Nakusp Visitor Centre
92 6th Ave. NW
(just off the main street, Broadway)
Nakusp, BC V0G 1R0
Toll Free: 1-800-909-8819 or
1-250-265-4234
"We are here to answer your questions! We have information on events, accommodations, attractions, recreation, community services, local businesses, as well as regional and provincial information. Lots of maps, free wi-fi and a public bathroom. We sell maps and souvenir items, and offer printing, copying and fax services."
Any info you have on the area, rides etc, please let us at HU know.
Local Hosts
Grant and Susan are hosting this event, ably assisted by Rob McPhee, Allen Plantinga, Ekke Kok and heaps of volunteers!
Huge thanks to them for all their help! We can always use help on the day - please volunteer to help out for a couple of hours when you register!
HU Events Refund Policy
Like adventures, life can throw surprises our way. Stuff happens. While we would love for you to join the fun and connect with everyone at our events, we understand that you (and the funds) may be needed elsewhere. We'll catch up later!
On our side, we know you appreciate that we have financial commitments to venues and caterers!
The best way to let us know that you're unable to attend an event is to reply to the Registration Confirmation Email you got from us when you first signed up.
Up to 30 days prior to event start, we will refund all fees in full less a $10 (or €9 or £8) handling fee and PayPal charges. At your request, we can apply your Event Registration and all fees to any subsequent HU event you wish in that year or following year.
Up to 15 days prior to event start, we will refund only the camping/accommodation and food packages in full less a $10 (or €9 or £8) handling fee and PayPal charges. At your request, we can apply your Event Registration fee (with no handling fee) to any subsequent HU Event you wish in that year or following year. If you purchased a t-shirt, we will ship it to the mailing address you provide.
Within 15 days of the event start, there will be no refunds. At your request, we can apply your registration fee (with no handling fee) to any subsequent HU event you wish in that year or following year. If you purchased a t-shirt, we will ship it to the mailing address you provide.
If WE cancel an event:
We are constantly evaluating the situation for every event, and very much err on the side of caution. We will endeavour to announce "Final" decision one month or more before the event, but the situation COULD change closer to time, and we could be required by law to cancel.
If we are forced to cancel for COVID or natural disaster, we will roll your registration over to next year automatically.
If you want to transfer your existing registration to any other HU event in the world, just let us know.
Need a full refund? PLEASE REPLY to your original Registration Confirmation email to make it easier for us to find. If you can't find it, please email a request to: events-c (AT) horizonsunlimited(-)com with the subject line: "Refund event-name event-year"
Next HU Events
HU Event and other updates on the HUBB Forum "Traveller's Advisories" thread.
ALL Dates subject to change.
2024:
- California: April 18-21
- Virginia: April 25-28
- Germany Summer: May 9-12
- CanWest: July 11-14
- Switzerland: August 15-18
- Romania: August
- Ecuador: August 23-25
- France: September
- Austria: September 12-15
- Queensland is back! Oct 4-7
- Germany Autumn: Oct 31-Nov.3
Add yourself to the Updates List for each event!
Questions about an event? Ask here
New to Horizons Unlimited?
Horizons Unlimited was founded in 1997 by Grant and Susan Johnson following their journey around the world on a BMW R80 G/S motorcycle. The website, HUBB forum and regular events across the globe have inspired thousands of people to follow their dreams and take the road less travelled.

Membership - Show you're proud to be a Horizons Unlimited Traveller!
Horizons Unlimited is not a big multi-national company, just two people who love overland adventure travel and have grown what started as a hobby in 1997 into a full time job (usually 8-10 hours per day and 7 days a week) and a labour of love. To keep it going and a roof over our heads, we run events such as this one (18 this year!); we sell inspirational and informative DVDs; we have a few selected advertisers; and we make a small amount from memberships.
You don't have to be a Member to come to an HU meeting, access the website, the HUBB or to receive the e-zine. What you get for your membership contribution is our sincere gratitude, good karma and knowing that you're helping to keep the motorcycle travel dream alive. Contributing Members and Gold Members do get additional features on the HUBB. Here's a list of all the Member benefits on the HUBB.
You can join at a reduced rate as part of your meeting registration. Note that new Memberships with your Meeting Registration are applied as of the Meeting date or as soon as possible thereafter, not earlier, unless you make a special request in the Comments box when you register.