Oregon Backcountry Discovery Route

The Oregon Backcountry Discovery Route (ORBDR) will be the 12th route developed by the BDR organization for dual-sport and adventure motorcycle travel.

Riders on the ORBDR will be treated to diverse terrain as they explore Eastern and Central Oregon and the Northern Cascade Range. Challenges include lava rocks, silt, sand, and steep roads in sage hills and dense forests. The state’s volcanism is on display all along the route with hot springs, lava caves, buttes, and glaciated volcanoes that are easy to see or visit on every section. This route is one of the best ways to discover the backcountry of Oregon.

A Bit of History

The original set of off-highway routes in Oregon, called the Oregon Back Country Discovery Route,was created a few decades ago by Bob & Cheryl Greenstreet as a concept to promote managed travel in the backcountry. The idea of such routes served as the inspiration behind the creation of the Backcountry Discovery Routes non-profit organization in 2010. The original routes are not managed by our organization, but we remain grateful for the work they have done to promote this type of travel.

The New Route

The ORBDR will be a significantly different route utilizing new tracks and riding areas. As with other BDR’s, the route will be actively managed by the volunteers of the BDR organization, with free GPS tracks, travel resources, and digital maps available on the BDR website starting January 2023. A feature length ORBDR expedition documentary film will premiere at dealerships and motorcycle clubs around the country during Winter 2023 film tour. The filmwill be available for free on YouTube at the conclusion of the national film tour.

Note: All questions about the original routes should be directed to the OOHVA that currently manages the Oregon Routes.