ORBDR: 2023 Riding Season Route Updates
Updated November 20th, 2023
November 20th, 2023
Winter is Coming: Check snow levels with our interactive map
With winter upon us, weather and route conditions can change rapidly. Before you go, be sure and use our ArcGIS Interactive Map to view estimated snow levels on each of our routes.
- Click HERE to access the main interactive map page.
- Click on the snowflake icon in the top right of the window.
- Select all of the boxes to view the NOHRSC Snow Analysis.
- Zoom into the route of your choosing to view the estimated snow depth.
- Explore the other features of our interactive map to plan your next BDR experience.
- See attached screenshot for reference.
July 28th, 2023
Important Notice – New ORBDR Tracks with changes available for download titled “ORBDR-August2023”
We have made a few important updates to the ORBDR tracks as follows:
- The original tracks through Hart Mountain National Antelope Refuge via Black Canyon Rd and the Blue Sky Rd and the ALT Harder – Skyline track in section 1 have been fully diverted to the bypass track.
- The updated Section 1 track “OR1 Denio Junction to Plush” is now 166 miles from Denio Junction to Plush (with option to grab fuel in Fields)
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“We continue to deal with BDR riders trespassing around gates to gain access to Barnhardy Road, which contains a fragile wet meadow. Functioning meadows are a critical habitat component for sagebrush dependent wildlife and illegal use by BDR riders continue to damage this critical resource. Continued illegal trespass and resource damage by BDR could lead to permanent closure of the roads.
Lastly, we are now in Public Use Restrictions which include, among other fire mitigation and prevention measures, that all motorized vehicles (including motorcycles) carry water or fire extinguisher, shovel, and Pulaski while on Hart Mountain NAR or Sheldon NWR. This is enforceable under refuge regulations.
We ask BDR to work with us and respect the unique qualities of Hart Mountain NAR and preserve its importance to the fragile sagebrush ecosystem.”
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- Please do not ever go around gates or you risk losing access for all other riders in this area.
- The Optional Harder section up Three Creek Butte has been removed from the ORBDR tracks due to tightening access restrictions in the Skyline Forest area.
- The Optional Harder portion in Section 5 up to Cache Mtn Summit has been expanded to a larger loop titled “OR5 ALT Harder – Cache Mtn Loop” which includes some tight roads, deep sand, and rocky sections. Riders can remain on the Wagon Road on the main route track to bypass this harder section. Only licensed, plated, street legal vehicles are allowed in this area unless you have a OHV permit.
- Be advised, Newberry Volcanic National Monument requires a fee if you stop at any of the sites (East Lake, West Lake, Paulina Peak, etc.).
As always, be sure and download the latest .gpx file prior to your ride HERE
July 26th, 2023
UPDATE – Wildfire near Section 7 – Detour Required
The Boulder Fire is under control, but still has closures in the NF near Section 7, just East of Government Camp.
- Riders must bypass this portion of Section 7 by remaining on Hwy 35, then reconnecting with the route via NF44 (Brooks Meadow Road)
- See screenshots for reference.
- Please avoid this area altogether and be mindful of fire crews working. This closure may last through the 2023 riding season.
- An update from a recent rider:
“Although the Boulder Fire is no longer burning the main route out of Government Camp (Section 7) is still closed, with barracades and this information posted “Violations of these prohibitions are punishable by a fine of not more than $5000 for an individual or $10,000 for an organization, or Imprisonment not more than 6 months, or both. (16 U.S.C. 551, and 18 U.S.C. 3559 and 3571). “
Stay tuned for updates and follow reports HERE
July 11th, 2023
New Track Update – TBD track for NF-4220 now open on Section 6
The previous track file labeled OR6 TBD – NF4220 is now open and labeled in the new downloadable track file as OR6 ALT Harder – Olallie Lake
- This section has been categorized as Optional Harder as it is very rutted, rocky and challenging in areas and aligns with the difficulty of the other Optional Harder sections of this route.
- Riders can remain on the main route to avoid this section, and take the track OR6 ALT – Olallie Lake Access for easy access to Olallie Lake from the north, if desired.
- See screenshots for reference.
Download the new version of the tracks labeled ORBDR-July2023 by clicking HERE
February 4th, 2023
Updated July 28th, 2023
Important ORBDR Notice
Please read this important update before heading out on the ORBDR
- There is one track remaining in the .gpx download and on the Butler and interactive maps titled “OR7 TBD – Barlow Road“
- This track is intended to be part of the main route but is currently closed due to fire damage until further notice.
- At this time you will not be able to ride this track, follow the main section tracks and stay tuned for route updates on when this are will officially re-open.
Join our Facebook Group for more route updates.
Visit the official ORBDR Facebook Group page for ride reports, photos, and discussions with other riders in your area HERE
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