It's more than 8,000 kilometres from Sapperton to Tuktoyaktuk, N.W.T. and back, but New Westminster resident Brek Boughton and his "Surly Big Dummy" bicycle plan to make the trip in three months.

Boughton, who works at Cap's Bicycle Shop on East Columbia Street, begins his trek on Saturday.

He admits it's a daunting task, but past experience tells him he has the mettle for it.

"In 2010, I cycled across Canada. That was a huge undertaking, and I wasn't sure I could do it, but when I got into it, it became easier and easier, and it seemed like something anybody could do so I'm setting my sights a little higher," he said.

Boughton will be following main roads and highways most of the way, but when the pavement stops, the ice begins and Boughton will take ice roads for the last leg of the journey.

Boughton conceded he still finds some trepidation inside himself on the eve of his trip, and his family and loved ones still worry, but conquering those fears is a big part of the journey.

"Yeah, definitely there are fears - being alone for long periods of time. There are questions. I guess it is a test of myself to see what's possible and how I react to things. I'm sort of looking forward to that," he said. "At no point will I ever be more than 250 kilometres from civilization, so I could probably walk that in five days if my bike breaks down," he said.

He's also carrying a satellite beacon that he can activate and alert first responders to his location if he needs to, along with about 100 pounds of spare parts, camping gear and three sleeping bags.

And what happens when he gets to the northern settlement?

"Turn around and ride right back. I was thinking about maybe jumping in the water but we'll see," he said.

Asked why he's taking on such a Herculean task, the answer is simple - fun.

"I'm looking forward to peddling my bike eight to 10 hours a day. I just love to do that.

"I always feel fantastic at the end of the day. I'm looking forward to meeting people," he said.

Everyone is invited to see Boughton off on Friday and Saturday at Cap's Bicycle Shop, or join him on bicycles for the first leg of the journey.

Ten per cent of all sales made at the shop during the going-away party will go towards the charity Boughton founded that donates bikes in Africa.

Readers can follow Broughton on his website at www.cyclingintothe dark.com.

brichter@royalcityrecord.com

www.twitter.com/BrentRichter