Now in it’s ninth year, Swift Campout is a global call to adventurous spirits, encouraging people to pack up gear and pedal to their favorite camping spot during the summer solstice. The event weaves together communities from all over the world and showcases each communities’ distinctive love affair with cycling. To capture the magic of the event, we’ve called upon a handful of shops and individuals to design an overnighter that takes folks to their favorite local site– those tasked with leading the rides are called, Navigators. Each Navigator will have their own feature that tells a bit about them and their Campout.
Say howdy to Keystone Bicycle, an adventure-seeking bike shop located in Philadelphia.
Hi, Keystone! Tell us about your shop!
We’re a full-service worker-owned bike shop with a focus on bikepacking, distance and adventure cycling, camping, and commuter bikes. As a worker-owned cooperative, we practice democratic decision making, collective ownership, and focus on community engagement. We are excited to get more folks on bikes and introduce bike camping to them!
What does Swift Campout mean to you?
We love Swift Campout because it gives us an opportunity to plan a trip that can introduce the joy of bike camping to new folks. It is so fun to get together the many facets of the adventure cycling community in Philly, from weekend bike campers to riders planning their Tour Divide trip to first time adventurers, we like to plan a ride where everyone can have a good time.
Can you tell us a bit about your Campout this year? Anything meaningful about your route and why you want to share this with your community?
We stayed at this campsite at Evansburg State Park last year and it was such a joy! A nice large group spot by a creek, nestled in the woods. Our route is about 35mi primarily on paths and trails, so it is perfect for folks wanted to try out their first trip or test a new bag set up. We will also be offering an alternative route that is a little more challenging for anyone who wants a longer route with more climbing – details to come!
Can you drop some registration info & how to register?
Sign-ups will be available in mid-May! Sign up for our email list on our website (https://keystone.bike/contact-us) or follow us on Instagram (@keystone.bike) to get the link when reg opens! It will be totally free, but we will have a sign up to make sure we have enough room for everyone.
