Dead Ends & Cake 2026

DEAD ENDS & Cake is a self-supported bikepacking event set in the breathtaking landscapes of eastern Switzerland, starting and finishing in St. Gallen. Over roughly 500 km with about 9,000 m of climbing, participants must ride to five remote checkpoints, each situated at the end of a dead-end road deep in the mountains. These quiet, rugged routes—often steep, narrowly carved through the rocks with almost no traffic—lead to spectacular valleys, alps, and panoramic views that most cyclists never see. Riders have complete freedom to choose the order and route they take between checkpoints, allowing for strategic planning: whether aiming for the fastest itinerary, the most scenic tour, or a mix of both on road, gravel, or all-road bikes.

What truly sets DEAD ENDS & Cake apart is its playful spirit and community atmosphere. At every checkpoint, volunteers greet riders with a fresh piece of cake and a stamp for their brevet card—a sweet reward that celebrates both the physical challenge and the stories shared on the road.