2026 Big Bear BDR Fun-Raiser Weekend
Thursday, May 14 – Sunday, May 17, 2026
Date And Time:
Thursday, May 14 to Sunday, May 17, 2026
Location:
Chateau Big Bear
Big Bear Lake, California
We are going back to SoCal for our 2026 Annual Fundraiser Ride Weekend!
Join us May 14 to 17, 2026 at Chateau Big Bear in Big Bear Lake, California. This four season mountain lake escape sits in one of the world’s rare Sky Island Forests, an isolated mountain ecosystem that rises sharply from the surrounding desert. It is a truly unique place to ride, explore, and connect with the BDR community.
As always, you can expect a range of daily ride options tailored to different skill levels as you explore the San Bernardino National Forest.
THE DETAILS
BDR IS COMING TO SO CAL!
The event will be hosted at the Award Winning Chateau Big Bear Boutique Hotel where serenity and natural beauty come together in the heart of the San Bernardino Forest. This hotel is the quintessential hideaway, blending relaxation, comfort, and the rugged allure of the Big Bear Lake region.
In addition to daily rides, the program includes evening presentations and round table discussions with the BDR team and special guests.
This years BDR Fundraiser will offer some of the best Adventure Riding to be had in Southern California, situated in the mountains of the San Bernardino National Forest. With over 900 miles of dirt roads and over 200 miles of 50in or Single track trails, there is something for everyone. Ride from Mountain Snows to desert Sands all in a single morning. If you prefer a leisurely ride, the twisty pavement around Big Bear Lake (El. 6,752ft ) or along the jaw dropping views from the Ridge of the San Bernardino Mountains to the Alpine Village on the shore of Lake Arrowhead offer spectacular paved riding. The Dirt is from Mild to Wild.
Choose from gentle rides like the graded dirt of historic Holcomb Valley or Skyline Ridge or challenge the boulder fields of the infamous John Bull Trail. Bring your dirt bike (along with your big bike) so you can also enjoy the spectacular single track affectionately known as the Malcolm Smith Trail (not for the faint of heart!).
All close enough to be back in time for Happy Hour with fellow riders and the BDR Team.
*All motorcycles must be licensed, street legal, and dual sport or adventure type. DOT legal dual sport or big block knobby tires such as Motoz Tractionator Adventure or RallZ, Continental TKC 80s or similar are required.
LODGING OPTIONS
- Hotel Rooms:
- Chateau Big Bear has a limited number of lodge rooms reserved under the BDR room block. Book online via the Group Reservation Link or call (909) 866-6666 and mention that you are with the BDR fundraiser. We strongly recommend booking early to secure your room.
- Chateau Big Bear has a limited number of lodge rooms reserved under the BDR room block. Book online via the Group Reservation Link or call (909) 866-6666 and mention that you are with the BDR fundraiser. We strongly recommend booking early to secure your room.
- RV Site & Camping Options:
If you are bringing an RV, there are several RV resorts and campgrounds within a 10 minute drive or ride from Chateau Big Bear. Book your stay directly with the RV resort or campground.
- Big Bear Shores RV Resort: https://www.bigbearshoresrv.com — The only 5 star RV resort in the area.
- Holloway’s Marina & RV Park: https://www.bigbearhollowaysmarina.com — A lakefront RV park with 115 full hookup sites.
- Campground with RV sites:
- Reservations and location details for all campgrounds can be found at www.recreation.gov .
- Serrano Campground: Steps from the lake with 109 tent or RV sites. Electric hookups available on select sites.
- Pine Knot Campground: Tucked into the forest with 48 tent and RV sites.
FRIDAY: “TRAIN WHILE YOU RIDE” WITH PROFESSIONAL INSTRUCTORS
By popular demand, we’re adding a new component to this year’s BDR Fundraiser Weekend. On Friday from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, three of BDR’s trusted ADV training partners, Jocelin Snow, Jason Sherman of ADV Rider Training, and Padu Merlotti from SoCal Off Road School, will lead small-group “Train While You Ride” sessions.
After breakfast and a brief meet-up with your trainer to assess your current skills, review bike ergonomics, and work through a few foundational skills topics, you’ll head out on one of the pre-scouted BDR routes for guided instruction integrated directly into the ride. Expect real-time coaching, practical skill refinement, and terrain-based feedback.
This format allows you to build confidence while riding. You’ll return better prepared to enjoy Saturday’s riding at your own pace and with fellow participants. It’s a focused opportunity to sharpen off-road skills, learn from experienced instructors, connect with other riders, and get even more out of your BDR Fundraiser Weekend.
Cost: $350 per person. Limited spots are available. Follow the link to sign up for these rides.
FLY AND RIDE BIKE RENTALS
Motorcycle rentals for this event are available through Colorado Motorcycle Adventures. They have a range of bikes available, including BMW 1300GS & 1250GS, Himalayan 450, Honda CRF 300 Rallys, and KTM 890AR, 790A, 690 Enduro R & 500 EXC. Click here for more information. Bikes will be delivered to the event and available starting at 8 am on Thursday, May 14, and are yours to ride until Sunday, May 17, at 5 pm.
Visit the Colorado Motorcycle Adventures website, or call (720) 505-2030 to book your rental or for more information.
TIRE SALES AND INSTALLATION
Motoz Tires will be onsite offering tire sales and installation during the event. If you would like to take advantage of this service, you must order your tires and schedule an installation appointment with Motoz in advance.
To reserve your spot, email [email protected] with the following details:
- Your Name
- Requested day and time. The Motoz team will be available starting at 9:00 am on Thursday through Sunday at 12 Noon.
- Phone number
- Year, make, and model of your motorcycle
- Tire model and size requested
Installation pricing is $40 per wheel for mount and balance, which is an excellent deal.
BDR Annual Supporters receive discounts on Motoz tires: Bronze Supporter – 10% off, Silver – 15% off and Gold 20% off. You will be able to present your supporter code to Motoz when paying for your service at the event. Non-supporters can purchase tires at retail pricing available at pacificpowersports.com. Payment will be due at the completion of service at the event with a credit card, Venmo, Apple Pay, or cash.
Please note that Motoz will not have a dedicated wheel removal technician at the event. Riders must be able to remove and reinstall their own wheels. Bike lifts and tools will be available, and the Motoz team may be able to assist as time allows.
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
- A tight-knit and cozy gathering of ADV enthusiasts, industry professionals, BDR volunteers, Ambassadors and fans.
- A chance to meet and mingle with BDR founders and team.
- Daily self-guided adventure rides in and around the San Bernardino Forest.
- Limited edition commemorative gifts for all attendees.
- Informative presentations on access and preservation issues facing the ADV community.
- Fully catered meals through the whole weekend, from Thursday dinner to Sunday breakfast.
- Cocktail hour.
- Hear reports from the BDR team, share your feedback, discuss the future of the Backcountry Discovery Routes, and brainstorm the possibilities.
- Please note, lodging is not included in the price of the event. Book your stay with the Hotel directly or see options for nearby RV resorts and campgrounds.
- Your admission donation supports the mission of the BDR non-profit organization.
Whether you are a long time BDR supporter, new to the BDR, an industry professional or an ADV enthusiast, come ride with us in the Big Bear area of Southern California, and don’t miss the biggest BDR party of the year! Leave the hustle and bustle of the business world behind, while you ride, relax, and spend quality time with old friends and new.
Event proceeds will support the mission of the BDR non-profit organization of creating and preserving off-highway riding opportunities for adventure and dual-sport motorcycles.
The event is limited to 90 riders. Book soon to guarantee lodging and event availability.
SPECIAL GUEST: STERLING NOREN
We’re pleased to share that BDR filmmaker and founding member Sterling Noren will be joining us for the event. On Saturday evening, he’ll give a short presentation reflecting on his 16-year journey creating BDR films, how the work has shaped his connection to public lands, and the impact the nonprofit has had on his life and career.
Join us for an honest, behind-the-scenes conversation with one of BDR’s key team members and one of the adventure motorcycle community’s most respected filmmakers.
This is an AMA sanctioned event
PURCHASE TICKETS
100% refunds are available before April 15, 2026 (no refunds after that date). Tickets are transferable at any time. Please contact [email protected] with any questions or concerns.
View videos from previous BDR Fundraiser Ride Weekends
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