Big Agnes Announces 2027 Thru-Hiker and Bikepacker Sponsorship

STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, Colo. (October 9, 2026) – Big Agnes, Ridge Merino and Mountain House are teaming up in 2027 to sponsor three thru-hikers and one bikepacker on long-distance routes across the U.S. and Canada. The program will support one hiker each on the Appalachian Trail, Continental Divide Trail and Pacific Crest Trail, plus one bikepacker riding an established long-distance route in the U.S. or Canada.

Founded by people who live and breathe the outdoors, the three brands share a belief in the power of time outside to inspire, challenge and connect. The 2027 sponsorship supports hikers and bikepackers who share that passion while encouraging responsible trail use, stewardship and a more welcoming outdoor community.

About the 2027 Sponsorship

Now in its third year, Big Agnes' thru-hiker sponsorship program continues to support people taking on some of North America's longest trails. For 2027, Mountain House joins Big Agnes and returning partner Ridge Merino to give four hikers and bikepackers the equipment and support they need for months on the trail.

"Spending weeks or months on the trail changes the way you experience the outdoors and builds a deeper appreciation for the landscapes and communities you pass through," said Bill Gamber, co-founder and president of Big Agnes. "We're excited to welcome Mountain House and continue our partnership with Ridge Merino for 2027, and to support hikers and bikepackers who not only love being outside but also care about protecting these wild places and making them welcoming for everyone."

Each participant will receive a complete kit from all three brands. Big Agnes will provide a full backpacking or bikepacking setup, including a tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, backpack and other camp essentials. Ridge Merino will provide a layering system built for changing conditions, and Mountain House will supply meals for the start of the trip, followed by food drops at resupply points along the route. Participants will also receive ongoing support from the brands throughout the season.

Who Should Apply?

Applicants should be planning to thru-hike one of the following trails in 2027:

• Appalachian Trail
• Pacific Crest Trail
• Continental Divide Trail

Bikepackers planning an established long-distance route in the U.S. or Canada are also eligible.

The brands are looking for hikers and bikepackers who care about the places they travel through. Applicants should practice and promote Leave No Trace principles and welcome all trail users, including members of LGBTQIA+, BIPOC and other underrepresented communities. Ideal candidates will also be excited to share their journey through social media, photography or other storytelling avenues.

Applicants must be based in the U.S. or Canada and be 18 or older at the time of application.

Apply Now

Applications are open now through Oct. 31, 2026. Anyone planning a qualifying thru-hike or bikepacking route in 2027 can apply here. 

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About Big Agnes
Named for a peak in the nearby Mt. Zirkel Wilderness, Big Agnes®, Inc. is located in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, and was founded there in 2001. The company produces award-winning sleeping bags, pads, tents, packs, insulated apparel, camp furniture and backpacks. For more information, visit www.bigagnes.com or call 1-877-554-8975.

About Ridge Merino 
Founded in 2014 and based in Mammoth Lakes, Calif., Ridge Merino develops Merino wool apparel you can rely on for all of life’s adventures. Surrounded by high desert, deep snow and towering peaks, Ridge Merino tests its products in the most demanding conditions. Independent and family-owned, the company is committed to using natural, renewable and biodegradable fibers as much as possible, creating gear that reflects the strength and simplicity of nature. From day one, Ridge Merino has invested in the outdoors donating to environmental nonprofits as a member of 1% For The Planet. For more information visit www.ridgemerino.com. 

About Mountain House
Named after an Oregon restaurant on the slope of the Cascades that once welcomed outdoors people with warm meals after full days of adventure, Mountain House is the freeze-dried meal category leader. With its great taste, ease of use and reliability the brand has been helping backpackers, hikers, anglers and hunters stay out longer and go out further since 1969, offering comfort under any condition. Mountain House has a 56-year legacy proudly serving wholesome, delicious meals to the US military. All of its products are backed by a Taste Guarantee and a proven shelf life of 30 years. For more information and a complete list of products, visit www.mountainhouse.com.