The PA Wilds BDR-X is a 500-mile loop through the incredible Pennsylvania forests. The easternmost portions include parts of sections 7, 8 and 9 of the MABDR then turns west into the PA Wilds before looping back to the start near McElhattan.
The route runs mostly on dirt and gravel roads through Pennsylvania State Forests with short stretches of great pavement throughout. The route is designed in 4 sections with convenient places to eat, camp or lodge overnight at the end of each section. The beauty of being a loop route is that riders can start and finish from any point along the route.
The PA Wilds BDR-X has a familiar feel to that of the beloved MABDR with a few more optional advanced sections for those looking for a bit of a challenge. Ride it in conjunction with the MABDR and extend your adventure or ride the “X” alone and get your BDR fix over a long weekend.
Route Architect Spotlight
Jack O’Connor
A big BDR Thank You to our good friend, Jack O’Connor, for not only masterminding the PA Wilds loop but for generously gifting it to BDR and in turn to the entire ADV community. His creation is now the second official BDR-X loop and will be vigilantly managed by the BDR team from now on.
Jack holds legendary status in the Mid-Atlantic adventure riding community as the force behind the long-standing Pine Barrens 500 Adventure Ride and the Pine Barrens Adventure Camp School in southern NJ. He and his team have introduced thousands of riders to ADV riding over the last two decades. His vast knowledge of the riding opportunities on the East Coast led him to his volunteer work with the BDR organization and ultimately helping to create the first BDR route on the East Coast, the Mid-Atlantic BDR (MABDR). Jack joined the MABDR filming expedition providing local knowledge and comic relief in the film, which won him loyal fans among BDR supporters.
Jack has been riding dirt bikes for over 50 years, a passion that began with the purchase of his first bike, a Honda SL70 in 1972. He went on to race Moto Cross and Enduros through the mid 70’s and early 80’s, and Rallymotos in the early 2000’s. Later he became president of a local enduro club, and in 2021 Jack was selected by the AMA to chair their recreational off-road riding commission.
In 2003, Jack was introduced to the concept of GPS guided adventure rides, and made his own ‘Dakar practice loop,’ that eventually became the Pine Barrens 300/500 Adventure Ride, now in its 16th year. After seeing a rise popularity of the sport, Jack started an adventure riding school with his friend and enduro champ, Mike Bradway.
Jack has led rides and organized events for BMW, KTM, Klim, REV’IT!, Rawhyde, Touratech, local dealers and other grassroots organizations. He currently runs the Pine Barrens Adventures GPS Track Subscription Service offering single and multi day self-guided adventure loops in NJ, PA, VA, and WV that are easily accessible from the Mid Atlantic area.
Just off the PA Wilds BDR, make a quick overnight stop in the heart of PA’s wild Elk Range. 5 fully equipped overnight guest cabins. All bedding and linen provided for ease of stay on your route. Booking in advance is best from our website. (We’re just off Rt.555 & Gray Hill Rd near Benezette)
