Oregon Backcountry Discovery Route

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

The Oregon Backcountry Discovery Route (ORBDR) is a 682-mile, multi-day off-pavement ride designed for adventure and dual-sport motorcycles. Starting at the terminus of the CABDR-N at the California border and exploring north through ancient pine forests and into the rugged mountains of the Cascade Range, challenges include lava rocks, silt, sand, and arduous mountain roads. From sagebrush steppe and hot springs, to caverns and glaciated volcanoes, riders are guided into remote territories that reveal many of the state’s natural wonders, providing prime sightseeing and recreational opportunities. With stunning views throughout and terrain that is certain to test your riding skills and endurance, the ORBDR is one of the best ways to discover the backcountry of Oregon.

Please note: Since the Oregon BDR was released, we’ve listened closely to rider feedback and learned from real-world experience on the route. In November 2025, we’re excited to introduce major updates to the first three sections of the ORBDR to improve rideability and extend the riding season. The original southern sections often faced closures due to wildfire restrictions and extreme summer heat in the high desert, making it difficult to complete the route from start to finish. The revised Sections 1–3 now travel through higher-elevation National Forests, offering cooler temperatures, more consistent conditions, and a longer, safer season to ride the full route—from mid-June through mid-October.

You can purchase the map with the addendum HERE, or, if you already own the 2nd Edition map, you can purchase the addendum separately HERE. Read more about the permanent update HERE

PURCHASE THE MAP

The latest version of the ORBDR map is the Second Edition, dated: June 2024

SECTION-BY-SECTION

NEW PINE CREEK TO PAISLEY – 128 miles

The Oregon BDR starts in the quaint town of New Pine Creek, CA (no gas) and winds steeply up the Warner Mountains, bringing you quickly up to beautiful forested dirt roads, open meadows, and rugged landscapes. After descending to Lakeview where gas is available, the route passes by Cottonwood Reservoir then follows more gravel and two track roads in Fremont National Forest. Keep your eyes on the road because the stunning ridgeline view as you descend into the town of Paisley will really grab your attention. Gas up in Paisley and, if you have time, visit Oregon’s oldest operating saloon, the Pioneer Saloon for some great food and drinks. Stop by Summer Lake Hot Springs to camp or stay in a cabin (reservations required, no day-use soaking allowed).

Oregon Trail Inn & Suites
Motel near Warner Canyon Ski Area. Oregon Trail Inn and Suites provides everything you need. Guests can connect to free WiFi in public areas.

  • Address: 727 S F St, Lakeview, OR 97630
  • Phone: (541) 407-1260

Executive Inn & Suites
This low-rise budget inn offers straightforward, air-conditioned rooms featuring complimentary Wi-Fi, cable TV, and wooden furnishings.

  • Address: 411 N F St, Lakeview, OR 97630
  • Phone: (541) 947-2201
  • Visit Website »

Best Western Skyline Motor Lodge
Warmly decorated rooms offer free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs, as well as desks and seating areas, plus Tempur-Pedic beds, minifridges, microwaves, and coffeemakers. Upgraded rooms add separate seating areas. Complimentary amenities include breakfast and parking. There’s also an indoor pool, a hot tub, a coin-operated laundry, and a business center.

  • Address: 414 N G St, Lakeview, OR 97630
  • Phone: (541) 947-2194
  • Visit Website »

Lakeview Lodge Motel
Off Highway 395, this relaxed motel in a rural town setting features straightforward, air-conditioned rooms with conservative décor. Rooms offer free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs, plus microwaves and minifridges. Parking is complimentary, and laundry service is available.

  • Address: 301 N G St, Lakeview, OR 97630
  • Phone: (541) 947-2181
  • Visit Website »

Tall Town Café & Bakery
A beloved local favorite serving hearty breakfasts, fresh-baked goods, and classic American comfort food in a cozy small-town setting. Perfect for fueling up before a day of exploring or winding down after your ride.

  • Address: 1028 N 4th St, Lakeview, OR 97630
  • Phone: (541) 947-3677

Pioneer Saloon & Restaurant
Classic small-town tavern and grill serving up burgers, drinks, and local flavor in the heart of the Outback.

  • Address: 327 Main St, Paisley, OR 97636
  • Phone: (541) 943-3289

Lakeview, OR

Goose Lake State Recreation Area
A quiet lakeside park offering camping, birdwatching, and wide-open views near the Oregon-California border.


Black Cap Summit (2 miles off-route)
A scenic high-elevation viewpoint with expansive views over the surrounding high desert and forested terrain.


Cottonwood Reservoir
A remote reservoir offering dispersed camping, fishing, and peaceful high desert scenery.


Cottonwood Meadow Lake & CG
A forested campground and lake area ideal for camping, fishing, and relaxing in a quiet alpine setting.


Summer Lake Hot Springs (6 miles off-route)
A rustic hot springs retreat offering soaking pools, lodging, and camping in a tranquil high desert setting.

PAISLEY TO CHEMULT – 133 miles

Leaving Paisley, you’ll ascend the Winter Ridge for some fantastic views of Summer Lake and beyond on smooth, twisty gravel roads. While riding Winter Ridge, you can choose the main route on well-maintained roads or take two optional harder routes along moderately rocky and muddy two-tracks. Take the short out-and-back up to Indian Mountain for a panoramic 360 view in all directions before making your way east through very remote and beautiful pine forests in the Wimena National Forest. Crossing the Thompson Reservoir Dam will spice things up on a short rocky section and a great view of the reservoir. Continuing eastward through the remote pine forest there is an optional stop at Rodman Rock for a view of the surrounding mountainsides and forest valleys, eventually ending in Chemult for gas and supplies.

Summer Lake Hot Springs
Cabin guests, please bring your own bedding, pillows, and bath towels. With the exception of The Homestead, all cabins feature geothermally heated floors, kitchens, and outdoor fire pits. Cabins include electric fans in the summer and portable heaters in the winter. There is no air conditioning available.

  • Address: 41777 Highway 31 (mile marker 92), Paisley, OR 97636
  • Phone: (541) 943-3931
  • Visit Website »

The Lodge at Summer Lake
The Lodge at Summer Lake offers quiet, comfortable rooms and private cabins overlooking a fully stocked three-acre trophy bass pond. The newly built cabins feature full kitchens, cozy living rooms, and private porches with a touch of Northwest woodsy charm.

  • Address: 53460 Highway 31, Summer Lake, OR 97640
  • Phone: (541) 943-3993
  • Visit Website »

Flyway Restaurant – The Lodge at Summer Lake
Casual, full-menu dining in Oregon’s Outback featuring hand-cut steaks, seafood, homemade pies, and fresh local ingredients.

  • Address: 53460 Highway 31, Summer Lake, OR 97640
  • Phone: (541) 943-3993
  • Visit Website »

Paisley, OR

Summer Lake, OR

Hadley Viewpoint
A scenic overlook offering expansive views of the surrounding high desert landscape and distant mountain ranges.


Fremont Point 7135 ft.
A historic viewpoint overlooking Summer Lake, known for its sweeping panoramic views and interpretive signage about early exploration.


Indian Mountain
A prominent peak in the region offering rugged terrain and wide-ranging views of the Fremont-Winema National Forest.


Thompson Reservoir & Campground
A quiet lakeside campground ideal for fishing, camping, and enjoying the peaceful forest setting.


Rodman Rock
A distinctive volcanic rock formation and high point offering scenic views across the surrounding forest and basin terrain.

CHEMULT TO SUNRIVER – 102 miles

Leaving Chemult you’ll ride a short section of Hwy 97 before heading NE on gravel forest service roads that avoid the sandy and silty secondary roads in the area. After a few more paved miles on Hwy 31 you’ll get back on gravel in the pine forests of Deschutes National Forest. An optional side trip allows you to visit two lakes and an 8000-foot high peak in Newberry National Volcanic Monument. Note that the NVM has campgrounds, camp stores, lodging, and a restaurant (at East Lake Resort). After Newberry, the route continues to meander through Ponderosa Pine forests before ending at the resort town of Sunriver.

Eagle Crater Lake Inn
Each guestroom is thoughtfully appointed with amenities such as air conditioning and private entrances, while some units also feature a cozy seating area for relaxing after a day of exploration.

  • Address: 108915 US-97, Chemult, OR 97731
  • Phone: (541) 365-2235
  • Visit Website »

Budget Inn Motel
Budget-friendly lodging featuring a 24-hour front desk and convenient amenities. Rooms include flat-screen TVs with cable, microwaves, refrigerators, coffee makers, hairdryers, air conditioning, and private bathrooms with free toiletries. Guests enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi and free public parking.

  • Address: 109480 US-97, Chemult, OR 97731
  • Phone: (541) 365-2266
  • Visit Website »

Dawson House Lodge
This charming lodge offers a mix of cozy, individually decorated rooms and casual annex units. Rooms feature free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, minifridges, and microwaves. Suites add kitchenettes or extra bedrooms, while the main building highlights hand-carved four-poster beds and rustic charm.

  • Address: 109455 US-97, Chemult, OR 97731
  • Phone: (458) 329-6051
  • Visit Website »

Chemult Motel
Simple roadside accommodations offering an affordable and convenient stay for travelers passing through Chemult.

  • Address: 109256 US-97, Chemult, OR 97731
  • Phone: (541) 365-2228

Paulina Lake Lodge
Rustic log cabins with kitchens and fireplaces provide a classic mountain getaway. Upgraded two-bedroom units include living rooms and sleep up to eight guests, while some cabins offer loft bedrooms for added space.

  • Address: 22440 Paulina-East Lake Rd, La Pine, OR 97739
  • Phone: (541) 536-2240
  • Visit Website »

East Lake Resort
Cozy knotty-pine cabins with minifridges, microwaves, and coffeemakers. Most have private bathrooms with showers, and all include fire pits, barbecue grills, and picnic tables. Some units offer toilets and sinks only. No TVs, phones, or air-conditioning, keeping the experience simple and peaceful. Motel-style studios also available.

  • Address: 22430 Paulina Lake Rd, La Pine, OR 97739
  • Phone: (541) 536-2230
  • Visit Website »

Ponderosa Public House
Scratch-kitchen comfort in Chemult featuring steaks butchered in-house, homemade soups and dressings, and a full bar—perfect post-ride fuel for the ADV crowd.

  • Address: 109330 US-97, Chemult, OR 97731
  • Phone: (541) 365-0939
  • Visit Website »

Chemult, OR

Newberry National Volcanic Monument (Off-route)
A vast volcanic landscape featuring lava flows, cinder cones, obsidian fields, and two stunning alpine lakes, offering unique geology and outdoor recreation opportunities.


East Lake Resort (5.3 miles off-route)
A scenic lakeside resort on East Lake offering lodging, camping, fishing, and boat rentals within the Newberry Caldera.


Paulina Peak Summit Lookout 7984′ (13 miles off-route)
The highest point in the Newberry Caldera, providing breathtaking panoramic views of East Lake, Paulina Lake, and the surrounding volcanic landscape.


Lava River Cave
A mile-long lava tube cave formed by ancient volcanic activity, offering a unique underground hiking experience through a cool, dark environment.

SUNRIVER TO SISTERS – 68 miles

Gas up in the resort town of Sunriver and get ready to enter an area of Central Oregon that hosts outdoor recreationalists of all kinds. Keep the speed down and watch for walkers and cyclists who could be crossing the roads on singletrack trails in the vicinity. The next section of the ORBDR hopscotches between dirt and tarmac via Cascade Lakes Highway and Skyliners Drive. Soon afterward, expect steady climbs into an area where snowpack occasionally lingers into mid-July. If the snow is gone, this segment is a real treat with fun, flowy roads and includes an optional short side trip to Three Creek Lake, which has a small store with limited supplies. The track then descends into an area adjacent to private timber lands (heed all signs). After the dirt fun ends, you’ll ride a few miles on pavement to the vibrant western-themed town of Sisters, named for the Three Sisters volcanoes which are visible from portions of the route.

Sunriver Resort
4-star luxury resort with many amenities. Call ahead to book well in advance.

  • Address: 17600 Center Dr, Sunriver, OR 97707
  • Phone: (855) 420-8206
  • Visit Website »

Sunriver Brewing Co.
Brewpub and American food.

  • Address: 57100 Beaver Dr Bldg 4, Sunriver, OR 97707
  • Phone: (541) 306-5154

Shell

  • Address: 56896 Venture Ln, Sunriver, OR 97707
  • Phone: (541) 593-8767

Three Creek Lake & Campground – 1 mile Side Trip
Three Creek Lake, located in the Deschutes National Forest, is a picturesque alpine lake offering camping, fishing, hiking, and non-motorized boating. The campground provides a peaceful setting surrounded by forest and mountain views, making it a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts.

SISTERS TO DETROIT – 76 miles

The track north of Sisters journeys back onto roads within Deschutes National Forest. Skylight Cave is a recommended short side trip for cave lovers to get their spelunking on. After a fun whoops-filled section of the Old Santiam Wagon Road, the ORBDR begins to loop around Cache Mountain. An optional more difficult road branches off to Cache Mountain summit (5,579’) and excellent views of the Cascade Range can be seen. The riding north of Cache Mountain can be sandy and include plenty of bumps in late summer. The next segment is a delightful experience which soon connects with a brief ride on Highway 20. The route then follows miles of typical forest roads before descending to the east shore of Detroit Lake. Paved roads lead the rest of the way to the town of Detroit which was devastated by the Beachie Creek Fire in 2020. The town is being rebuilt and can use the infusion of tourist dollars, so stop and support local businesses while riding through or staying for the night.

Left Coast Lodge
The Left Coast Lodge, located in Sisters, OR, is a historic motor lodge (formerly Sisters Motor Lodge) which, under new ownership, has been transformed into a launchpad for adventure in Central Oregon.  All the rooms have been updated and are nicely appointed.  We have easy and safe onsite parking, a bike washing station, and a perfect property for relaxing and taking in views of the mountains.  We are a block from town and located right near a gas station offering ethanol free gas.  Come by and add the perfect stop to your incredible adventure.

  • Address: 511 W Cascade Ave, Sisters, OR 97759
  • Phone: (541) 549-2551
  • Visit Website »

Rushing River Retreat
Located in Idanha, OR on Route 5—just 5 miles east of Detroit Lake—Rushing River Retreat offers unique lodging along the Santiam River in a small, Western-style town created to host guests. The property features 6 guest rooms (3 in the old town and 3 inside the lodge) and 2 glampers. Guests can enjoy multiple riverfront decks, outdoor living areas, a fire pit, and a hot tub. Home-cooked dinners are available for $20 per person, and a free breakfast is included. Plenty of parking is available for riders.

  • Address: 49750 N Santiam Hwy SE, Idanha, OR 97350
  • Phone: (541) 921-4448
  • Visit Website »

Best Western Ponderosa Lodge
3-star hotel in Sisters Oregon.


Sisters Inn & Suites
2-star hotel in Sisters, Oregon.

  • Address: 605 N Arrowleaf Trail, Sisters, OR 97759
  • Phone: (541) 549-7829
  • Visit Website »

Grandstay Hotel
3-star hotel in Sisters, Oregon

  • Address: 1026 West Rail Way Sisters, OR 97759
  • Phone: (541) 904-0967
  • Visit Website »

Sisters Saloon & Ranch Grill
American food.

  • Address: 190 E Cascade Ave, Sisters, OR 97759
  • Phone: (541) 549-7427
  • Visit Website »

High Camp Taphouse
Himalayan Food & Taphouse


Boone Dog Pizza

  • Address: 171 E Main Ave, Sisters, OR 97759
  • Phone: (541) 588-2054
  • Visit Website »

Space Age Fuel #16
Clear Premium Available

  • Address: 411 W Cascade Ave #1500, Sisters, OR 97759
  • Phone: (541) 549-0537

Sinclair

  • Address: 210 E Cascade Ave, Sisters, OR 97759
  • Phone: (541) 549-1027

Chevron

  • Address: 1001 Railway, Sisters, OR 97759
  • Phone: (541) 549-5400

Dugout Lake – 1 mile Side Trip
Dugout Lake is a small, serene alpine lake located near Santiam Pass. It’s an ideal spot for a quiet stop to enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding Deschutes National Forest.


Skylight Cave – 0.8 miles Side Trip
Skylight Cave is a lava tube known for its unique skylight openings that let beams of sunlight filter into the cave. This natural feature offers a short hike and a memorable underground exploration experience.


Cache Mountain Summit 5,579′ – 1.2 miles Side Trip
Cache Mountain Summit is located in the Deschutes National Forest, offering excellent views of the surrounding peaks and forests. It’s a short detour perfect for those looking to take in some additional scenery.


Big Lake & Campground
Big Lake is a popular destination located near Santiam Pass, offering camping, fishing, boating, and clear views of Mount Washington. The campground provides easy access to the lake and surrounding trails.


Lost Lake Lava Tube & Campground – 1 mile Side Trip
Located in the Willamette National Forest, Lost Lake offers camping and a chance to explore a nearby lava tube. This area showcases the volcanic history of the region and is a quiet retreat for outdoor enthusiasts.

DETROIT TO GOVERNMENT CAMP – 92.5 miles

North of Detroit is another area that has been impacted by recent wildfires. In 2021, the Bull Complex Fire burned a large portion of Willamette National Forest and the ORBDR, as originally designed, had to be adjusted due to road closures. The route now ascends the Breitenbush River Valley on FS-46, then meanders on forest roads eastward toward Olallie Lake. The lake is accessed via an out-and-back on FS-4220, but there is a more direct, harder route for those who are comfortable with steep rocky and rutted roads. There’s a small store on the shore of this scenic lake which has food and supplies in the summer months (no fuel there). Olallie Lake also offers excellent camping and has cabins available. After Olallie, the route becomes a navigational challenge, so you’ll want to pay close attention to the GPS tracks as intersections are easily missed. Near the end of Section 6 the route passes by both Timothy Lake and Clear Lake which are excellent places to visit. The final miles are on Highway 26 and end at the town of Government Camp which has a fine selection of lodging, restaurants, and pubs.

Rushing River Retreat
A peaceful B&B with the addition of glamping units, kayaks and hammocks. Located four miles away from Detroit Lake. Call for availability.

  • Address: 49750 N Santiam Hwy, Idanha, OR 97350
  • Phone: (503) 854-3500 | (503) 507-9610
  • Visit Website »

The Lodge at Detroit Lake
Small, rustic motel in Detroit, OR with 4 rooms. Call ahead to book well in advance.

  • Address: 175 Detroit Ave, Detroit, OR 97342
  • Phone: (503) 854-3344
  • Visit Website »

Conners BBQ and Pizza
BBQ & Pizza

  • Address: 195 Detroit Rd S, Detroit, OR 97342
  • Phone: (971) 285-1207
  • Visit Website »

Korner Burgers & More

  • Address: 100 Detroit Ave, Detroit, OR 97342

River Run Grill

  • Address: 105 Breitenbush Rd, Detroit, OR 97342
  • Phone: (503) 854-3039

River Run

  • Address: 105 Breitenbush Rd, Detroit, OR 97342
  • Phone: (503) 854-3039

Detroit Lake State Park Campground
Detroit Lake State Park offers over 300 campsites with stunning views of the lake, boating access, fishing opportunities, and hiking trails. It’s a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts in Oregon’s Cascade Mountains.


Olallie Lake Resort – Food, Camping
Nestled in the Olallie Scenic Area, Olallie Lake Resort offers rustic cabins, campsites, and a small store. Visitors can enjoy fishing, paddling, and breathtaking views of Mount Jefferson.


Timothy Lake & Campground
Located on the southwest side of Mt. Hood, Timothy Lake offers camping, fishing, hiking, and non-motorized boating in a beautiful forest setting. It’s one of the largest lakes in the area, providing plenty of recreational opportunities.


Clear Lake & Campground
Clear Lake Campground is located in the Mt. Hood National Forest, offering access to scenic views, fishing, and hiking trails. The crystal-clear waters make it a favorite spot for kayaking and canoeing.


Frog Lake & Campground
Frog Lake Campground is situated at the base of Mt. Hood, offering lake access for swimming, fishing, and paddling. It’s also a great base for hiking nearby trails.

GOVERNMENT CAMP TO HOOD RIVER – 83.2 miles

The last section of the ORBDR leaves Government Camp on Highways 26 and 35. After leaving pavement, the route follows a blissful series of roads on a circuitous route through Mount Hood National Forest. The byways in this area to the southeast of Mount Hood are rocky and exposed at times, so keep your focus and ride within your ability. Factor in stopping at the numerous amazing viewpoints along the way.

After a long descent from Bennett Pass, the track then heads true north following high elevation roads on Gunsight Butte, Lookout Mountain, and Surveyors Ridge. The last ten miles are on pavement, but they are exceptionally scenic and pass through rural farms within the Hood River Valley. The ORBDR ends at Port Marina Park where Hood River meets the mighty Columbia River in the city of Hood River.

Best Western Mt. Hood Inn
3-star hotel in the charming ski town of Government Camp.

  • Address: 87450 Government Camp Loop, Government Camp, OR 97028
  • Phone: (503) 272-3205
  • Visit Website »

The Lodge at Government Camp
3-star hotel in the ski town of Government Camp.

  • Address: 30521 E Meldrum St #9, Government Camp, OR 97028
  • Phone: (503) 272-3316
  • Visit Website »

Huckleberry Inn
3-star hotel in the ski town of Government Camp with a great restaurant (try the huckleberry pancakes!)

  • Address: 88611 Government Camp Loop, Government Camp, OR 97028
  • Phone: (503) 272-3325
  • Visit Website »

Best Western Plus Hood River Inn
3-star hotel on the banks of the Columbia River

  • Address: 1108 E Marina Dr, Hood River, OR 97031
  • Phone: (541) 386-2200
  • Visit Website »

Huckleberry Inn
3-star hotel in the ski town of Government Camp with a great restaurant (try the huckleberry pancakes!)

  • Address: 88611 Government Camp Loop, Government Camp, OR 97028
  • Phone: (503) 272-3325
  • Visit Website »

Glacier Public House

  • Address: 88817 Government Camp Loop, Government Camp, OR 97028
  • Phone: (971) 275-8512
  • Visit Website »

Mt. Hood Brewing Co.

  • Address: 87304 Government Camp Loop, Government Camp, OR 97028
  • Phone: (503)-272-3172

Timberline Lodge
Fine dining.

  • Address: 27500 E Timberline Road, Government Camp, OR 97028
  • Phone: (503)-272-3311
  • Visit Website »

Riverside
Italian food

  • Address: 1108 E Marina Dr, Hood River, OR 97031
  • Phone: (541)-386-4410
  • Visit Website »

Grace Su’s China Gorge Restaurant, Hood River, OR (Section 7)
Chinese food

  • Address: 2680 Old Columbia River Dr, Hood River, OR 97031
  • Phone: (541) 386-5331
  • Visit Website »

Full Sail Brewing Company, Hood River, OR (Section 7)
Brew pub

  • Address: 506 Columbia St, Hood River, OR 97031
  • Phone: (541) 386-2247
  • Visit Website »

Chevron off Hwy 26

  • Address: 93770 US-26, Government Camp, OR 97028
  • Phone: (503) 337-2277

Chevron Government Camp

  • Address: 90149 Government Camp Loop, Government Camp, OR 97028
  • Phone: (503) 272-3692

Pine Grove Pit Stop

  • Address: 2385 OR-35, Hood River, OR 97031
  • Phone: (541) 386-5855

Chevron Hood River

  • Address: 949 E Marina Dr, Hood River, OR 97031
  • Phone: (541) 386-7887

Barlow Pass 4,157′
Barlow Pass is a mountain pass in the Mt. Hood National Forest. It offers historical significance as part of the Oregon Trail’s Barlow Road and provides access to hiking, scenic views, and a link to several outdoor recreation areas.


Mount Hood Snopark Viewpoint
Located near Mt. Hood, this Sno-Park offers winter sports access such as snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling, along with panoramic views of Mt. Hood and the surrounding landscape.


Historic Barlow Wagon Road
The Barlow Road was the final overland segment of the Oregon Trail, allowing settlers to bypass the Columbia River. Established in 1846, it played a key role in westward expansion and remains a significant historical route today.


Panorama Point County Park
Panorama Point offers sweeping views of the Hood River Valley, Mount Hood, and surrounding orchards. It’s an excellent stop for photos and a quiet break while traveling through the area.

ORBDR 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

ORBDR MOTORCYCLE DEALERSHIPS

CASCADE MOTORSPORTS

BEND, OR 97701

WEBSITE

We are Central Oregon's premier Powersports dealership, located in the heart of Bend, just 8 miles from the Oregon Backcountry Discovery Route. With a detour of only 15-minute, our experienced technicians are here to handle your service or repair needs. We strive for same-day service to ensure you’re back on route ASAP! We specialize in KTM and Polaris products and offer a wide range of parts, apparel, and accessories. Your adventure starts and continues at Cascade Motorsports!

Cascade Moto

Tigard, OR 97223

WEBSITE

Cascade Moto is Portland, Oregon's ADV headquarters. Both our Triumph and BMW showrooms stock new and used adventure bikes, parts and apparel, ADV accessories, and more. Both of our locations are near the start of the WABDR and ready to help you make your next ride the best yet. Come stop by our shop and tell us about your next adventure!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Below are answers to some of the Frequently Asked Questions about the Oregon Backcountry Discovery Route.

The Oregon BDR is a 862 mile multi-day backcountry adventure and dual sport motorcycle route starting in New Pine Creek, CA and ending in Hood River Oregon. The route follows remote and primitive roads along some of the most beautiful, unique, and isolated places in the state! The route is very remote in places so plan for any eventuality. The route takes you through small towns and unique attractions to see along the way.

The Oregon BDR can be ridden from start to finish generally from early July to the end of September. There are several high elevation places where snow lingers later into the season which may require a slight detour early in the season. Wildfires are also a possibility and can require reroutes around those affected areas.  Always check the Route Updates page for more information on current reroutes and closures.

Roads on the Oregon BDR are more challenging in some places than most other BDRs, especially in extreme dry or wet periods due to the natural road material. You may experience sand and/or rocky surfaces for longer periods than other BDRs, especially in the southern portion of the route. Optional harder sections increase the difficulty with steep, loose, and rocky terrain. These harder sections can be bypassed if so desired. We consider this route intermediate-plus but not the hardest route in the BDR lineup.

The ALT-Harder sections on the ORBDR are quite difficult, so do not attempt them if you are not a very experienced and competent rider. 

Extreme heat is possible in the  high desert portion of the Oregon BDR so pack plenty of water! Heat can transform natural road material into more soft and deep sandy surfaces. Additionally, rain, snow, and cold temperatures are possible at either ends of the riding season. Heavy rains can turn dirt roads into deep, slick mud. It is best to prepare for any weather eventuality.

Yes. As with all the BDR routes, the ORBDR was designed for riding South to North, but it can absolutely be done North to South. The route ends at a major interstate passage in the town of Hood River, OR. Please be prepared for two-way traffic everywhere on this route and always remember to Ride Right to avoid head-on collisions around blind corners.

The time each person takes to ride a BDR can vary based on many factors including your preparedness, riding skill/stamina, breakdowns, weather, and many other factors. There are 7 sections with services (gas, food, lodging) at the beginning and end of each section. It is suggested to ride a section per day but not a requirement. 

There are no special permits or passes needed for normal groups of riders. Street legal motorcycles with a license plate can ride the Oregon BDR.
There is a very short section (about a mile) in the Santiam Pass OHV area where we are using an OHV trail that is full Jeep width in our tracks. This will be rectified as soon as snow melts and we can scout the bypass. All other roads in this area are legal forest service roads for any licensed street legal vehicle to use. This has been verified with the Willamette NF Detroit Ranger District.

Parking at the East Lake boating site (Section 3 Bonus) requires a fee. Riding through does not.  For more information click HERE

Designated public campgrounds can be found in the national forests and other places along this route. A few of the public campgrounds are identified on the ORBDR map as a small tent icon and are listed on the www.RideBDR.com/ORBDR page. Dispersed camping is also available throughout the route but be aware that each forest and land manager has their own guidelines so it’s advisable to check their websites. Camping is not allowed on state trust lands except where there’s a designated campground. See our map above to see the brown shaded areas where the state doesn’t allow camping or fires or off-route vehicular travel.

In the national forest campgrounds campfires are allowed, but check with local Ranger Stations to determine if campfires are allowed before you build one. In most cases, campfires are only allowed in fire rings. See our map above to see where the many state trust lands are located (brown shaded areas). If you are dispersed camping, we don’t suggest building fires. Instead, bring a camp stove for cooking and boiling water to avoid the risk of fires in Oregon’s arid landscapes. Be sure to fully extinguish fires so they are DEAD-OUT. Use water to ensure a fire is fully extinguished and the ground is left cool and wet.

Read more about Oregon fire regulations, restrictions, and updates HERE

Never pass fuel. It’s one of the golden rules of adventure riding. The longest gap between fuel stops may be more than 100 miles., riders on small bikes should plan to carry extra fuel.

The ORBDR is one of the most remote routes in the lineup. Because of this fact, lodging opportunities are slim but there are some along the way. The ORBDR page lists many of the hotels, motels and lodges that you’ll pass by. We highly recommend that you plan properly and make advanced reservations when possible. Carrying a minimum of “emergency” camping gear is important in Oregon as lodging can be unavailable and you can also get stuck at any time due to wet backroads from afternoon rain squalls.

We highly recommend that to plan your adventure on the ORBDR, you use online lodging/travel aggregators in addition to the listing of lodging options on the ORBDR page and the ORBDR Map.

This route cannot be ridden without the use of GPS tracks.  Be prepared and bring the ORBDR Map AND your navigation device with the latest ORBDR GPS tracks loaded. Free GPS tracks are available for download on this site. The route can also be navigated using a smartphone GPS navigational app like onX Offroad, Gaia, Rever and others. The ORBDR expedition documentary film is a great source of information about the route and is available via on-demand video platforms like Vimeo and will be released for free on YouTube following the official film tour.

Any GPS unit capable of handling 15 track logs with a minimum of 1500 points each is suitable for use on the ORBDR. Garmin models that work best for this application are: Zumo XT, 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 navigational 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 is very limited on this route so a satellite communication or tracking device is recommended for emergency situations.  The ORBDR is one of the most remote routes to date and you should expect to not be able to easily reach services for much of the duration between towns.

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 the trip.  However, if you are planning on doing the Expert sections, we recommend a mid-sized bike for this route unless you are very comfortable on a big bore bike in rough technical terrain.  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 not afraid to drop a few times.

DOT approved knobby tires are strongly recommended.  Riding this route without at least a 60/40 tire (60% dirt, 40% road) could be dangerous.

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.

Please don’t go off the route anywhere where it’s gated or signed for seasonal or permanent closures, don’t venture onto private property.

The ORBDR route includes 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, such as outside of national forest lands, 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.

Yes. There may be gates and/or barricades along the route. When you encounter 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. In spring and early summer there may be temporary closures when crews are repairing washouts, downed trees, and other road hazards. If roads are closed due to wildfires, do not ride around the signs as that can put you or fire crews in danger and can get you a hefty fine. Check the BDR website for route updates before you go.

On most BDRs riders will encounter gates across roads and the ORBDR is no exception. These gates are important and are used by ranchers to control and separate herds. The rule of thumb is to leave the gate as you’ve found it. This means that if it was closed when you found it, close it after passing through. If it was open, leave it open. It is important for riders to follow this rule to prevent animal herds intermixing, and respect the rights and needs of private landowners and permittees.

Please abide by posted road closure signs. Ignoring these signs is a sure-fire 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.

Each state has its own recreational fishing requirements and restrictions. To learn about the required licenses and stamps for fishing (and hunting) in Oregon, visit: https://myodfw.com/fishing/licensing-info

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

There is also a dedicated ORBDR Facebook group page.  We recommend that you join the group prior to your trip to read trip reports and comments from other riders about their experience on the route. Search for: Oregon Backcountry Discovery Route (ORBDR).

Oregon is a habitat for many animals like deer, antelope, bears as well as smaller animals like coyote, porcupines, and snakes — 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.

Antelope are known for wanting to race motorcycles, but don’t encourage them. Slow down as soon as you see animals as, for some reason, they like to cross in front of bikes instead of running away from them. Look out for wild horses when you are in open range land.  Appropriate food practices while camping is an absolute must for your safety and the animal’s safety. 

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 ORBDR 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 deep puddles, large rocks, huge ruts 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 south to north to minimize head-on traffic.

When we filmed the ORBDR documentary our support vehicle remained on major roads as much as possible to keep the dirt roads free from vehicles.

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

Challenging: Black Hills, Chattahoochee, Lost Coast

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

Review the FAQs for each route before your trip.

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