Stories
Reflections from the road, alongside how-to pieces and story-driven guides. These writings explore the places I move through and the inner landscapes they reveal—shaped by long days on the bike, unexpected encounters, and the lessons learned along the way.
Let Them Melt: A Shoulder Season Adventure over Kennebec Pass
Nine years after a frostbitten, snow-choked crossing taught us what “a perilous journey” really means, we set out again over Kennebec Pass—curiosity outweighing caution despite 50+ inches of lingering snow.
This Adventure Cyclist Turned Her Love of Bikes Into a Career
I first started cycling when I was 18 years old, after graduating from high school. Without the need to train for field hockey or lacrosse, my dad (a former marathon runner), who had recently transitioned to cycling due to knee issues, invited me on a road bike ride. I was immediately attracted to the low-impact workout that cycling provided, as well as the freedom it offered to explore places in southwest Ohio I didn’t know existed.
Routes that Tell a Story: Cuenca Los Ojos
A route shaped by landscape, conservation, and context - exploring how the places we ride through hold deeper stories beyond the miles.
Adventures in Baja
A reflection on bikepacking through Baja California - remote terrain, unpredictable moments, and the kind of experiences that only come from moving slowly through a place.
Story Guide: The Ausangate Circuit, Peru
A high-altitude bikepacking journey through Peru’s Ausangate region, combining route guidance with reflections from riding through remote Andean landscapes.
Ruta del Jefe is back for 2022!
An update on the return of Ruta del Jefe - a community-driven event centered on cycling, education, and connection in the Arizona borderlands.
Gallery: Biketouring in Crete
A visual snapshot of bike travel through Crete - steep climbs, coastal views, and the rhythms of riding, eating, and exploring the island.
Coaching with Durango Devo
Reflections from coaching youth cycling in Durango - building skills, confidence, and community through riding.
Volcanoes, Waterfalls, and Puffins: My Travel Journal from Iceland and The Rift Gravel Race
A travel journal from Iceland, capturing the landscapes, weather, and experiences of riding through one of the most dynamic environments in the world.
The Bike That Flew
A story about travel, logistics, and the unexpected challenges (and humor) that come with moving bikes across the world.
Listen: Bikes or Death Podcast, Ride Buddies with Sarah Sturm, My TDR Playlist
A collection of recent podcast conversations covering cycling, storytelling, and the experiences that have shaped a life on the bike.
Tour Divide Recap Interview Between Sarah Swallow and Jambi Jambi
A recap conversation diving into the realities of the Tour Divide - expectations, challenges, and what it takes to complete the ride.
Update: My Gofundme Campagin for the Cairn Project
An update on fundraising efforts to support outdoor access for young women and girls through The Cairn Project.
How I Am Preparing for The Tour Divide
A look at the physical, logistical, and mental preparation that goes into getting ready for the Tour Divide.
How Finding What I Love To Do Outdoors Changed My Life Trajectory
A personal reflection on discovering purpose through outdoor experiences and how it reshaped my path.
Tour Divide Preparation Video: Why, Expectations, and Q & A
A video covering my motivations for riding the Tour Divide, along with expectations and common questions about the experience.
The Tour Divide and The Cairn Project
Connecting the Tour Divide ride to a broader mission of supporting access and opportunity in the outdoors.
Goodbye Arizona
A transition piece reflecting on leaving Arizona and the experiences that shaped that chapter.
E-Bikes: My Initial Impressions
An honest take on riding e-bikes, exploring both the benefits and the questions they raise within cycling culture.
Living On The Research Ranch
A glimpse into daily life on a remote research ranch in southern Arizona, where cycling and conservation intersect.