WYBDR: 2023 Riding Season Route Updates
Updated June 26, 2023
June 26, 2023
Important WYBDR Update – Emergency Road Closures In Effect On Bighorn National Forest Roads – Sections 7 & 8
Seasonal rain is resulting in much unanticipated moisture on the Bighorn National Forest road system creating hazardous conditions for vehicular traffic and forest users.
Forest Service staff have observed rapidly deteriorating road conditions on system roads resulting in roadway damages and unnecessary off-road travel.
Due to the conditions the following emergency road closure will be implemented effective immediately.
As conditions improve roads will be re-opened.
Click HERE and HERE for more information
UPDATE: Some roads are reopening, check the status HERE
- We are monitoring this update and as a reminder, we recommend waiting to ride the WYBDR until after July 1st due to lingering snowpack, muddy and impassable roads, and seasonal closures.
- As a reminder, never ride around road closures, do not ride around mud into the forest or off the main road. When in doubt, turn around.
- Download the latest version of the tracks HERE
June 22, 2023
Important WYBDR Update – New Tracks Available for Download
A new version of the WYBDR .gpx file is available for download, labeled June2023.
This version includes a few important changes and updates, most notably:
- The track for Section 4 labeled “WY4 Alcova to Atlantic City” has been adjusted to navigate land management challenges on the Beaver Rim. As a reminder, travel on the Beaver Rim portion of this route is not permitted until after July 1st each year.
- The Renner Wildlife Loop portion in Section 7 has been separated as “WY7 ALT Harder – Renner Wildlife Loop” and now considered an optional Harder section. Travel on this portion is not permitted until after June 1st each year.
- See attached screenshots for reference.
- A new version of the WYBDR Butler Map is in production and scheduled for release later this summer.
As a reminder, always Ride Respectfully and adhere to the gps track files and never divert from the route on private property or otherwise.
Download the latest version of the tracks HERE
June 26, 2023
Important WYBDR Update – Beaver Rim (Section 4)
Please read this important update before heading out on the WYBDR
- The Beaver Rim (Section 4) is experiencing significant mud and washouts and is not in suitable riding condition at this time.
- Furthermore, and as a reminder, BLM representatives have notified us that the Beaver Rim section of the route will not be open until July 1st each year. This date coincides with seasonal closures in the national forests.
- Riders should not ride the entire WYBDR before July 1st. On the Beaver Rim this would allow the Greater Sage Grouse birds to hatch their chicks and it would minimize lasting impacts on them in addition to mitigating potential road damage due to muddy conditions and ruts.
- Riders should stay on the GPS track on the Beaver Rim section to avoid environmental damage and never travel off a main road.
Download the latest version of the WYBDR tracks HERE
- Please review the FAQ on the WYBDR page for information on camping permits.
November 27, 2022
WYBDR Route Update
We have received complaints from the Wyoming Game & Fish Department and the Bighorn National Forest managers about unwanted behavior of riders on the WYBDR. Please review these guidelines before heading out on the WYBDR and Ride Respectfully to help preserve access to our public lands.
Can I fish on the WYBDR?
Each state has its own recreational fishing requirements and restrictions. To learn about the required licenses and stamps for fishing (and hunting) in Wyoming, visit https://wgfd.wyo.gov/apply-or-buy.
Please note, the Wyoming Game & Fish Department has reported a number of riders fishing without the proper licenses and conservation stamps, so please ensure that you have obtained the proper permits if you intend to go fishing during your WYBDR trip.
What if I see a ‘Private Land Sign’?
The WYBDR route includes a few instances where the 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.
What if I encounter a gate along the route?
On most BDRs riders will encounter gates across roads and the WYBDR 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.
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Visit the official WYBDR Facebook Group page for ride reports, photos, and discussions with other riders in your area HERE
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