Premiering Wednesday, March 5 at 8:30 p.m. on Wyoming PBS

The Film

Four cyclists bikepack across Wyoming's Red Desert, discovering the joys and challenges of human-powered travel in a remote landscape. They learn about the desert's history and geology, and that all you need for a great adventure is a bike and a great group of friends.

Rough roads and humbling weather make visitors earn the moments of solitude that the Red Desert offers. The diversity of landscapes and wildlife also rewards those who are willing to slow down and spend time in this place, making it ideal for traveling by bicycle.

Headwinds aims to empower viewers to explore one of Wyoming’s gems and seek out adventures. It’s a reminder to us all of the joy and freedom that comes from riding a bike.

The Filmmaker

BJ Klophaus has lived several lives as a video producer. In New York City, he produced web series and digital content for MTV, PBS, Conde Nast, and The Weather Channel. In Guatemala, he transitioned to shooting marketing videos for highland treks and volcano tours. Eventually he found his way to Lander, Wyo, where he worked in the video department of an outdoor education school. Still based in Lander, he now produces documentaries full time as a video producer at Wyoming PBS. 

BJ brings a strong sense of story from his background in editing, and a genuine curiosity of the people and places around him. 

The Cast & Crew

The featured cyclists in Headwinds are all Lander residents who represent the state’s growing cycling community. With expanding trail systems and annual road, gravel, mountain, and fat biking events, Wyoming has become a place where all types of bike-powered recreation are welcome. The documentary aims to elevate the enthusiasm for bikepacking in the state, and inspire exploration and adventure down Wyoming’s backcountry roads. 

Headwinds was made possible through the collaboration of creatives from across Wyoming. Anthony Stengel of Casper and Kyle Nicholoff of Riverton rounded out the expedition crew as cameramen. Mark Pedri and Carrie McCarthy of Rock Springs provided mentorship and story consultation during pre- and post-production, and Carl Cote of Lander joined for part of the expedition as a stills photographer. 

Snapshots

"There’s nothing better than - get up, make breakfast, ride your bike all day, go to bed, do it all again tomorrow." 

Mike Dicken, featured cyclist

This film is sponsored in part by

WY PBS is proud to share stories of adventure and discovery that bring our state's treasures to light. Through films like Headwinds, we connect viewers with the wild places and remarkable experiences that make Wyoming unique. To help us continue bringing these stories to your screen, please consider supporting WY PBS.