Big Bend Texas BDR-X

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Set against the rugged landscape of West Texas in the largest protected portion of the Chihuahuan Desert in the United States, and within the unique backdrop of the Rio Grande River, this route stands out as a premier destination for adventurous riders seeking a remote and unforgettable journey.

Spanning 623 miles, this route weaves through the iconic terrain of Big Bend National Park, Big Bend Ranch State Park, and other remote wilderness, offering a unique off-pavement adventure. Riders can explore the untamed beauty of the Chisos Mountains, encounter hidden historical gems, experience vibrant artistic communities, and even venture into Mexico with an optional foot crossing.

This route is an immersive riding experience in the heart of Texas’ ‘Gift to the Nation,’ making it a must-visit destination for riders seeking an authentic and unforgettable desert adventure.

Best time of year: The ideal times to ride the Big Bend area are in fall (October to November) and spring (March to April). Be mindful: the desert can still get rainstorms and very cold temperatures, and the daylight hours are much shorter in winter.

Difficulty: Difficult

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Big Bend BDR-X Map: Second Edition, dated: April 2025

SECTION-BY-SECTION

ALPINE
TO RIO GRANDE VILLAGERIO GRANDE VILLAGE
TO STUDY BUTTESTUDY BUTTE
TO PRESIDIOPRESIDIO
TO VAN HORNVAN HORN
TO ALPINE
PreviousNext

ALPINE TO RIO GRANDE VILLAGE – 143 miles

Your journey begins in Alpine, where you’ll find ample options for food, fuel, and lodging.
Be sure to fuel up, and as you head south, keep an eye out for herds of Aoudad, the majestic African wild sheep transplanted here. Turning east, you’ll transition from paved to dirt roads. Reduce your speed and navigate carefully. A rest stop at Terlingua Ranch offers food, cold drinks, and Accommodations.

Entering Big Bend National Park, you’ll encounter a brief but exciting stretch of primitive two-track, which may feature patches of deep sand. After reaching Highway 385, the route becomes paved and continues to the Fossil Bone Exhibit and Panther Junction, which has food, fuel and entrance passes.

For experienced riders, an optional harder route on Old Ore Road provides a challenging 29-mile experience through rugged desert terrain, including rocky climbs, off-camber turns,
switchbacks, and sand. There are no bailouts on Old Ore Road, and while this section is not for the faint of heart, the challenge is worth the reward.

Meeting the mighty Rio Grande, visit Boquillas Overlook for panoramic views and the optional excursion into Mexico at Boquillas Crossing. Don’t forget your passport!

Section 1 concludes at Rio Grande Village, where you can find fuel and supplies at the general store (available from 9 am to 5:30 pm). Be sure and pay your entrance fee at the visitor center if you haven’t already. There is no lodging here, but a campground is available. For additional lodging and camping, head to Chisos Basin, located high above the desert floor, or exit the park and stay in Study Butte or Terlingua. Reservations are required in advance for all park accommodations.

The Maverick Inn, TX

  • Address: 1200 E Holland Ave, Alpine, TX 79830
  • Phone: (432) 837-0628
  • Visit Website »

The Holland Hotel

  • Address: 209 W Holland Ave, Alpine, TX 79830
  • Phone: (432) 837-2800
  • Visit Website »

Terlingua Ranch Lodge

Rustic lodging in a remote setting directly on the route.

  • Address: 16000 Terlingua Ranch Rd, Terlingua, TX 79852
  • Phone: (432) 371-3146
  • Visit Website »

Rio Grande Village Campground

  • Address: Big Bend National Park, TX 79834
  • Phone: (432) 477-2251
  • Visit Website »

Chisos Mountain Lodge & Campground (off route)

Hotel and campground with restaurant perched high above the valley floor.

  • Address: 1 Basin Rural Station, 1 Basin Jct Station, Big Bend National Park, TX 79834
  • Phone: (432) 477-2291
  • Visit Website »

Terlingua Ranch Lodge

  • Address: 16000 Terlingua Ranch Rd, Terlingua, TX 79852
  • Phone: (432) 371-3146
  • Visit Website »

Panther Junction

Gas station with basic necessities.

  • Address: Big Bend National Park, TX 79834
  • Phone: (432) 477-2294
  • Visit Website »

Rio Grande Village Store

Convenience store with gas and food. Open 9am-5:30pm daily.

  • Address: Big Bend National Park, TX 79834
  • Phone: (432) 477-2293
  • Visit Website »

Panther Junction

Gas station with basic necessities.

  • Address: Big Bend National Park, TX 79834
  • Phone: (432) 477-2294
  • Visit Website »

Rio Grande Village Store

Convenience store with gas and food. Open 9am-5:30pm daily. No pay at pump.

  • Address: Big Bend National Park, TX 79834
  • Phone: (432) 477-2293
  • Visit Website »

Museum of the Big Bend

Convenience store with gas and food. Open 9am-5:30pm daily.

  • Address: 400 N Harrison St C-101, Alpine, TX 79832
  • Phone: (432) 837-8730
  • Visit Website »

Fossil Discovery Exhibit

  • Address: Fossil Bone Exhibit, Big Bend National Park, TX 79834

Boquillas Crossing Port of Entry

Crossing into Mexico. Open 9am-4pm Wed-Sun. CLOSED Mon and Tue with no re-entry.

RIO GRANDE VILLAGE TO STUDY BUTTE – 84 MILES

The River Road is a true gem, traversing miles of rugged desert terrain, showcasing the raw beauty of this expansive wilderness. Take a break at Boquillas Hot Springs, accessible via a short scenic hike past the remnants of an old hotel, pictographs, and natural hot springs along the Rio Grande.

Midway along River Road, advanced riders can take Black Gap Road. This highly-challenging road includes deep ruts, steep descents, rough ledges, rocky terrain, and the notorious Black
Gap—a ramp of stacked rocks cutting through the rock formation. Near the junction of these roads, riders can visit Mariscal Mine to view the impressive remains of a decommissioned mercury mine.

After a short but sweet stretch of pavement, stop at Elena Canyon Overlook for breathtaking views. Continue on Maverick Road, the final stretch of gravel leading out of the National Park and into the small towns of Study Butte and Terlingua.

Study Butte and Terlingua offer various lodging options and excellent dining spots. When in Terlingua, be sure to visit the Starlight Theatre for a great meal and a chance to relax on “the porch.”

CAUTION: River Road is a 52-mile stretch of continuous primitive dirt with no bailouts and takes longer than expected. Carry sufficient food, fuel and water as you will be far from assistance in this remote area.

La Posada Milagro Guesthouse

  • Address: 101 Milagro Way, Terlingua, TX 79852
  • Phone: (424) 645-8017
  • Visit Website »

Ocotillos Village

  • Address: 23006 FM 170, Terlingua, TX 79852
  • Phone: (432) 300-6695
  • Visit Website »

Big Bend Holiday Hotel

  • Address:100 Ivey Rd, Terlingua, TX 79852
  • Phone: (432) 203-6929
  • Visit Website »

Buzzard’s Roost

  • Address:333 Goat Trak Trl, Terlingua, TX 79852
  • Phone: (432) 955-6244
  • Visit Website »

Basecamp Terlingua

There are more than 40 unique accommodations to rent for the night, varying from Casitas, Bubbles, Tipis, Lotus tents, and campsites. No matter where you stay, you will be minutes from bars, restaurants, and more. Book Online or call between 8 am-5 pm CST.

Castolon Visitor Center

Basic necessities in a small general store. No fuel available.

  • Address: 600, Ross Maxwell Scenic Dr, Big Bend National Park, TX 79834
  • Phone: (432) 477-2666

Espresso y Poco Mas

  • Address: 45 Milagro Way, Terlingua, TX 79852
  • Phone: (432) 371-3044
  • Visit Website »

Starlight Theatre

  • Address: 631 Ivey Rd, Terlingua, TX 79852
  • Phone: (432) 371-3400
  • Visit Website »

DB’s Rustic Iron BBQ

  • Address: 10 Terlingua Ghost Town, Terlingua, TX 79852
  • Phone: (432) 371-3939
  • Visit Website »

Venga Cafe

Venga Cafe is located at the intersection of Kempf Rd and Hwy 170 in the historic Ghost Town of Terlingua, TX. They are open 7 am-5 pm daily and offer various breakfast and lunch options. A truly unique place to rest and make a pit stop while exploring West Texas and Big Bend. A relaxed hang-out, indoor and outdoor seating, spacious interior, and comfy couches. Check them out on social media: @vengaterlingua

Alon Gas Study Butte

Boquillas Hot Springs

Short hike with old structures to lovely hot spring pool on the Rio Grande.

Mariscal Mine

Santa Elena Canyon Overlook

STUDY BUTTE TO MARFA – 124 MILES

Departing Study Butte/Terlingua, stop in Lajitas for fuel and snacks before a blissful stretch of paved road as you cruise alongside the Rio Grande on FM170 before embarking on an optional 47-mile detour into
Big Bend Ranch State Park. This scenic out-and-back route ends at the Sauceda Bunkhouse, where you can replenish water or stay overnight, with a reservation.

Highway 169 features a mixture of gravel and pavement with expansive views as you head north. Section 3 concludes in Marfa, known for its eclectic vibe and artsy charm and features a multitude of great lodging and food options.

CAUTION: This section is over 170 miles if you stop in the State Park, so after you leave the Terlingua area, stop in Lajitas for food and fuel, and don’t forget to pick up your Big Bend Ranch State Park entrance pass at the Barton Warnock Visitors Center. Riders coming from Marfa should visit Fort Leaton for permits before entering the park. In either direction, riders can detour into Presidio for fuel, food, lodging, and permits with an entry point into Mexico.

Far Flung Outdoor Center

Far Flung Outdoor Center is an Adventure Hotel catering to outdoor enthusiasts in the Big Bend Area.  It is located in section 3 of the Big Bend Texas BDR-X, on FM 170 one mile west of the Study Butte intersection.  Riders will find premium lodging with amenities like a pool, hot tub, and fire pit.  Each casita is 400 sq ft offering double queens or king accommodations.  They also offer riders free air, a motorcycle washing station, and free potable water to replenish their water containers at Far Flung.  They are also conveniently located close to all the restaurants in Study Butte and Terlingua and next to the Dollar General for other supplies.  If riders would like to see the area from a different perspective they also offer guided river trips ranging from half day to 12 days down the Rio Grande River.

  • Address: 23310 FM 170, Terlingua, TX, 79852
  • Phone: (432) 371-2633
  • Visit Website »

Lajitas Golf Resort

Sauceda Bunkhouse

Rustic bunkhouse with beds and camping. Reservations required.

Three Palms Inn

  • Address: 1200 Erma Ave, Presidio, TX 79845
  • Phone: (432) 229-3211
  • Visit Website »

Riata Inn Presidio

  • Address: 99205 US-67, Presidio, TX 79845
  • Phone: (432) 229-2528
  • Visit Website »

Lajitas General Store

Large general store with sandwiches, supplies and fuel

  • Address: 55 Main Street, Lajitas, TX 79852
  • Phone: (432) 424-5040
  • Visit Website »

The Bean Cafe

  • Address: 506 O Reilly St, Presidio, TX 79845
  • Phone: (432) 229-3131
  • Visit Website »

Lajitas General Store

Large general store with sandwiches, supplies and fuel

  • Address: 55 Main Street, Lajitas, TX 79852
  • Phone: (432) 424-5040
  • Visit Website »

Valero

Large general store with sandwiches, supplies and fuel

  • Address: 104 O Reilly St, Presidio, TX 79845
  • Phone: (210) 345-2000

“The Porch” at Starlight Theatre

Terlingua Historic District

Big Bend Ranch State Park

Lodging and camping. Permits Required for entry. Reservations required for camping and lodging.

MARFA TO VAN HORN – 144 MILES

After a brief stretch of pavement, Pinto Canyon turns to dirt as you make your way south and features incredible vistas. Reaching the village of Candelaria, you’ll begin one of the best parts of this route as you navigate remote two-track along the Rio Grande on Chispa Road. A notable feature is Godzilla Hill, featuring a long, steep climb followed by a steep descent, marked by a distinctive rock formation resembling Godzilla. This hill and this section are considered impassable when wet, so if weather conditions are poor, turn back and return on the track to Marfa.

This entire stretch along the Rio Grande is remote with no bailouts, so ensure you have all necessary supplies. Watch for ranch gates and make sure to leave them as you found them.

After extensive desert riding, you’ll rejoin the pavement for a short ride into Van Horn, where you can find food, fuel, and lodging.

Chinati Hot Springs

Rustic hot springs resort with great cabins and community kitchen. Advanced reservations required, not open to public walk-ins.

  • Address: 1 Hot Springs Rd, Presidio, TX 79845
  • Phone: (432) 229-4165
  • Visit Website »

Hotel El Capitan

  • Address: 100 E Broadway, Van Horn, TX 79855
  • Phone: (432) 283-1220
  • Visit Website »

Desert Inn

  • Address: 401 E Broadway, Van Horn, TX 79855
  • Phone: (432) 284-1714
  • Visit Website »

Holiday Inn

  • Address: 1805 Frontage Rd, Van Horn, TX 79855
  • Phone: (432) 283-0009
  • Visit Website »

Hampton Inn Van Horn

  • Address:1921 Frontage Rd, Van Horn, TX 79855
  • Phone: (432) 283-0088
  • Visit Website »

Gilbert’s

  • Address: 313 E Broadway, Van Horn, TX 79855
  • Phone: (432) 284-9153

Broadway Cafe

  • Address: 404 W Broadway St, Van Horn, TX 79855
  • Phone: (432) 283-5090

Pilot Van Horn

  • Address: 501 Van Horn Dr, Van Horn, TX 79855
  • Phone: (432) 283-8067

Valero

  • Address: 500 Van Horn Dr, Van Horn, TX 79855
  • Phone: (432) 283-1447

Godzilla Hill

VAN HORN TO ALPINE – 128 MILES

After several hundred miles of rugged dirt, Section 5 offers reprieve with a rewarding stretch of smooth pavement. Departing Van Horn, make a stop at the Prada art installation before cruising some of the finest paved mountain roads in Texas.

Highway 118 winds through dramatic terrain with continuous twists and turns. Consider a visit to the McDonald Observatory before descending into Fort Davis. This charming town offers food, fuel, lodging, and the historic fort to explore. A stretch on Highway 118 completes the final miles back to Alpine. Each of these towns — Alpine, Fort Davis, and Marfa — make an excellent starting or ending point for
your adventure.

Chinati Hot Springs

Rustic hot springs resort with great cabins and community kitchen. Advanced reservations required, not open to public walk-ins.

  • Address: 1 Hot Springs Rd, Presidio, TX 79845
  • Phone: (432) 229-4165
  • Visit Website »

Chinati Hot Springs

Rustic hot springs resort with great cabins and community kitchen. Advanced reservations required, not open to public walk-ins.

  • Address: 1 Hot Springs Rd, Presidio, TX 79845
  • Phone: (432) 229-4165
  • Visit Website »

Blue Mountain Bar and Grill

  • Address: 109 State St, Fort Davis, TX 79734
  • Phone: (432)-426-3244
  • Visit Website »

Double Shot Coffee Lounge

  • Address: Box 1207, 108 State St, Fort Davis, TX 79734
  • Phone: (432) 426-3284

Para Llevar

Sazon Baja Mex

  • Address: 901 E Holland Ave, Alpine, TX 79830
  • Phone: (432) 538-7002
  • Visit Website »

Sentinel

  • Address: 209 W El Paso St, Marfa, TX 79843
  • Phone: (432) 729-7009
  • Visit Website »

Quarles

  • Address: 101 State St, Fort Davis, TX 79734
  • Phone: (877) 444-3835
  • Visit Website »

Stripes

  • Address: 109 E San Antonio St, Marfa, TX 79843
  • Phone: (432)-729-3933
  • Visit Website »

Prada Store

Iconic art installation.

  • Address: 14880 US-90, Valentine, TX 79854

McDonald Observatory

  • Address: 3640 Dark Sky Dr, Fort Davis, TX 79734
  • Phone: (432)-426-3640
  • Visit Website »

Fort Davis National Historic Site

  • Address: 1504 State St, Fort Davis, TX 79734
  • Phone: (432) 426-3224
  • Visit Website »

PLAN YOUR ADVENTURE

BIG BEND PACKING LIST

This packing list serves as an example and is not intended to be a complete list for your backcountry riding needs. Feel free to customize this list to work for you.

  • Helmet
  • Boots
  • Goggles
  • Gloves (2 sets)
  • Protective gear (pressure suit, Leatt brace, knee braces)
  • Jacket
  • Pants
  • Balaclava or neck gaitor
  • Water bladder or bottle
  • Hydration pack
  • Ear plugs

BIG BEND MOTORCYCLE DEALERSHIPS

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Below are answers to some Frequently Asked Questions about the Big Bend BDR-X.

Set against the rugged landscape of west Texas in the largest protected portion of the Chihuahuan Desert in the United States, and within the unique backdrop of the Rio Grande river, the Big Bend, TX BDR-X stands out as a premier destination for adventurous riders seeking a remote and unforgettable journey.

Spanning 618 miles, this route weaves through the iconic terrain of Big Bend National Park, Big Bend Ranch State Park, and other remote wilderness, offering a unique off-pavement adventure. Riders can explore the untamed beauty of the Chisos Mountains, encounter hidden historical gems, experience vibrant artistic communities, and even venture into Mexico with an optional foot crossing.

This route is an immersive riding experience in the heart of Texas’ ‘Gift to the Nation,’ making it a must-visit destination for riders seeking an authentic and unforgettable desert adventure.

The ideal times to ride the Big Bend area are in fall (October to November) and spring (March to April). During these months and most of winter, temperatures are mild and comfortable, ranging from the 60s to 80s°F (15 to 30°C), making for pleasant riding conditions. Be mindful, the desert can still get rain storms and very cold temperatures, and the daylight hours are much shorter in winter.

As with all BDR’s, this route is designed for intermediate riders. Most of the composition is pavement, gravel and packed dirt, but there are stretches of tight, rugged and rocky two-track, rocky hills, potentially deep sand, and the Optional Harder routes on Old Ore Road and Black Gap Road. This route is one of the more difficult BDR-X routes given its rugged and remote desert landscape.

This route is perhaps the most desolate and remote feeling of any BDR. Although parts of the route go through a National Park and several small towns, there are long stretches of very remote and primitive roads where you may not see anyone for hours, and be a long way from cell service or assistance. We strongly encourage riders to be fully self-sufficient and have skill in navigation, field repairs, first aid, and other emergency situations. Have the right tools for the job, bring an umbrella or tarp to provide shade if you’re stuck, have adequate water, food, and fuel, share your itinerary with others, and have a way to communicate in emergency situations with a satellite phone or SOS device.

Early winter and early spring weather is generally predictable and mild, with nice warm temperatures during the day and cool evenings. There is the potential for rain in these times so plan accordingly. 

Summer temperatures can be extreme and all riders should avoid this area during the summer heat. Heat related illness, injury, or death can be avoided with proper planning and common sense.

This route is designed to be ridden clockwise starting from Alpine, but you can access this loop from any location. Many riders may choose to start in Fort Davis or Marfa, or even basecamp out of Terlingua. Always be prepared for two-way traffic everywhere on this route and always remember to Ride Right to avoid head-on collisions, especially around blind corners.

This route is divided into five sections, and can generally be ridden in 4-6 days. The area is full of amazing opportunities for tourist activities, hiking, parks, rafting, crossing into Mexico, and many historical sites so plan to spend some extra time to really enjoy the area.

YES. A National Park Pass is required for entry and any activities within Big Bend National Park. Additionally, a permit is required to enter Big Bend Ranch State Park, which is an optional Extension track.

Big Bend National Park has various entrance stations and visitor centers. If you follow the route starting from Alpine, your first available fee station will be at the end of section 1 at the Rio Grande Visitor Center.

Permits for Big Bend Ranch State Park must be purchased from either Barton Warnock visitor center in Lajitas, or Fort Leaton in Presidio. Both locations are marked as waypoints in the GPS track file.

Click HERE for more info on Big Bend National Park passes.

Click HERE for more info on Big Bend Ranch State Park entrance passes.

In addition to entrance fees being required for the National Park and State Park, almost all lodging and camping accommodations within the parks require reservations, and may be booked out months in advance. Plan your itinerary thoroughly to ensure you have secured your stays and services. Visit the official park websites for reservations and travel advisories.

There is no backcountry dispersed camping allowed within the National Park without a permit, which must be made in advance. 

Click HERE for more info in Big Bend NP

Click HERE for more info in Big Bend Ranch State Park.

Follow all posted rules and regulations within this area. The National Park and State Park may have specific requirements and restrictions for campfires.

The longest distance between available gas on the main route is the entire 129 miles of Section 4. On Section 1, riders will need a range of over 140 miles from Alpine to Rio Grande Village if taking the ALT Harder track via Old Ore Road. Some gas stations are small and have limited hours of operation. Even if your bike’s range is beyond the gas stop distances, we recommend always stopping to top off your gas and to carry extra fuel in these remote areas.

There are lodging options available throughout this route, however many require advanced reservations, especially within the park. Alpine, Marfa, and Fort Davis have ample options. Terlingua/Study Butte have many options and can be a good place to basecamp for a few days while you run the route. Lodging in Presidio and Lajitas is limited. Lodging in Van Horn is ample and provides quick interstate access.

This area is busy in prime season, so expect accommodations to book out ahead of time and always plan before you go.

Riders have the unique opportunity to cross into Mexico at the end of Section 1 at the Boquillas Crossing Port of Entry. Here, you can be shuttled across the river and ride burros into town for a memorable experience. Be advised, there are very strict times for entry and re-entry, and you will not be allowed back into the US without a passport or outside of normal operating hours.
Click HERE for more information. 

Normal Operating Hours are as follows:

Winter Schedule
(November 2 – April 28)
5 days a week: Wednesdays through Sundays
9:00 am – 4:00 pm

Summer Schedule
(May 3 – November 1)
4 days a week: Fridays through Mondays
9:00 am – 4:00 pm

Additionally, riders can cross into Mexico in the town of Presidio and must follow all rules and regulations for entry and re-entry.

This route cannot be ridden without the use of GPS tracks. Be prepared and bring a navigation device with the latest GPS tracks loaded. Free GPS tracks are available for download on this site and are updated regularly, so download just before you go. The route can also be navigated using a smartphone GPS navigation app like Gaia, OnX, Rever and others. The Big Bend BDR-X expedition documentary film is a great source of information about the route and is available on the RideBDR YouTube channel. The official map is available to purchase on the BDR Store HERE

Any GPS unit capable of handling 15 track logs with a minimum of 1500 points each is suitable for use on this route. Garmin models that work best for this application are: Zumo XT, XT2, Zumo 590/595/395/396, Montana, and 276Cx. Many other GPS units are compatible with the GPX file format, check the owner’s manual of your device for more information.  You can also import the tracks into a GPS navigation app, like Gaia GPS, but make sure you have the premium version of the app, so you can navigate via offline maps.

Cell phone service can be limited in some areas on this route so a satellite communication or tracking device such as Zoleo, Spot, Garmin InReach or a satellite phone is strongly recommended for emergency situations.

Any bike that has a license plate, can run knobby tires, has adequate suspension, can carry the gear you will need, and has enough fuel range. Most adventure or dual-sport motorcycles will be suitable for this trip. Even very experienced riders on our team reported being challenged on larger bikes by some of the technical sections of the route during the filming expedition. Choose the bike that you are the most comfortable riding in challenging terrain and that you are able to pick up if you drop it.

DOT approved knobby tires are strongly recommended. Riding this route without at least a 60/40 tire (60% dirt, 40% road) is not recommended. This route features remote, rugged desert terrain with sharp rocks and cactus, so heavy-duty tires (and tubes, if relevant) are recommended. Always have tire repair supplies and knowledge before you go, you may be a long way from help on this route.

Segments of this route can be ridden two-up for those experienced in riding off-highway with a passenger and luggage. However, we strongly advise against riding the technical sections of this route two-up. The pavement portions of this route are a fantastic way to explore with a partner on board, but most of this route would not be recommended with a passenger.

Please don’t go off the route anywhere where it’s gated or signed for seasonal or permanent closures, and don’t venture onto private property. Texas has many private areas, and riding off-route in the National or State Parks is a serious criminal offense.

The Big Bend BDR-X route may include a few instances where the track follows an easement road through private land. In many, but not all cases, the land owners have installed “private land” signs and it is important that riders acknowledge these signs and stay on the designated track. If you are unsure of the land ownership adjacent to the roads, it’s best to stay on the track to avoid trespassing. In all cases riders should not ride off the roads which creates new trails and damages vegetation. Please remember that riding off the designated roads can jeopardize our right to use these roads for recreation.

There may be gates and/or seasonal closures along the route, please do not ride around closed gates. As a general reminder on BDR’s, if you encounter ranch gates, leave them as you found them. If they were open, leave them open and if they were closed, close them again after you pass through. If you pass by ranches, be courteous and Ride Respectfully.

Check the official website pages for Big Bend National Park and State Park for updates and closure alerts.

Please abide by posted road closure signs. Ignoring these signs is a sure way of getting a road closed for good. That said, sometimes locals will post unofficial “road closed” signs on public roads for their own personal reasons. Additionally, land managers may not have removed a “closed” sign from a seasonal road – even though the sign right next to it clearly displays the open/closed dates. In these cases, use your best judgment – if in doubt navigate around the closed road and report it to BDR. And please remember never to engage in arguments with local land owners.

We do our best to post the most up-to-date information about the route on ridebdr.com/.

We depend on the BDR community to inform us about route and road conditions, so if you encounter any road closures or severe conditions that are worth reporting, please contact us with the information. We also recommend riders join the official Facebook Group Page.
Additionally, riders can visit the official website pages for the National and State Park for updates and resources.

Texas is a habitat for many animals like deer, bighorn sheep, snakes, coyotes, and small critters — all of which make their way to the road at some point. Be alert everywhere you go as animals can and will cross your path along the route – especially at dusk.

Yield to all animals whether wild, domestic, or livestock by slowing down or stopping. Many locals in rural areas keep their dogs off-leash on their property and dogs love to chase motorcycles – be cautious and considerate.

All of the roads used on the BDR-X are public roads and as such, are open to vehicles. If you do decide to drive this route you will want a 4×4 with high clearance as the route has large rocks, ruts, sand, and steep, loose grades. Always stay to the right and go slow around blind corners to avoid head-on accidents with others using the roads. We recommend traveling the loop clockwise to minimize head-on traffic.

It is absolutely essential that you Ride Respectfully and follow the tips outlined in our Ride Respectfully campaign.  Remember, it’s up to all of you to preserve our access – we can easily lose access to many of these roads if we don’t practice proper etiquette. Always represent BDR and the ADV community in the best light.

Rating the Routes by Difficulty

We are often asked if we rate BDRs by difficulty. We don’t officially rate the difficulty level of our routes as it varies daily due to current weather, road conditions, and other unpredictable factors. Difficulty also depends on individual skill and fitness level, bike and tire selection and load carried.

Some riders find sand to be most challenging, some find mountain passes difficult. Each rider’s perception is unique.

While we can’t provide a standardized rating like ski resorts, we can provide some basic guidance on difficulty level. These groupings do not include optional harder sections and imply favorable road and weather conditions:

BDR ROUTES:

Moderate: Idaho, Mid-Atlantic, Southeast

Challenging: California North, Colorado, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Northeast, Oregon, Wyoming

Difficult: Arizona, California South, Utah, Washington

BDR-X ROUTES:

Moderate: PA Wilds, Texas Hill Country, Adirondacks

Challenging: Black Hills, Chattahoochee, Hells Canyon, Lost Coast

Difficult: Big Bend, Ozarks, Red Desert, Steens-Alvord

Review the FAQs for each route before your trip.

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