Texas Hill Country BDR-X

DOWNLOAD
GPS FILE SECTION
BY-SECTION FREQUENTLY
ASKED QUESTIONS PURCHASE
PRINT MAP PLAN YOUR
ADVENTURE JOIN THE TEXAS HILL COUNTRY
FACEBOOK GROUP ROUTE
UPDATES

The Texas Hill Country BDR-X is a 650-mile adventure route through the stunning terrain of central Texas. Experience dirt roads and twisty pavement, including parts of the famous Three Twisted Sisters and the “Three Dirty Sisters.” Countless low water crossings, shallow sand, and “bump gates” bring plenty of excitement, and the small towns you’ll visit are interesting and full of kind folks, plus some of the region’s best barbecue. The Texas Hill Country brings riders a collection of incredible twisty roads, elevation change, and unforgettable Texas culture.

Best time of year: The Texas Hill Country BDR-X can typically be ridden almost year-round, with the best conditions in spring and fall. Summer temperatures and humidity can be quite high, and winter is generally mild but can get quite cold at times.

Always check weather forecasts and check local conditions before heading out.

Difficulty: Moderate

WATCH THE FILM

WATCH THE TRAILER WATCH THE FILM

PURCHASE THE MAP

BDR Online Store

The latest version of the Texas Hill Country BDR-X map is the First Edition, dated: September 2025

SECTION-BY-SECTION

FREDERICKSBURG
TO LEAKEYLEAKEY
TO JUNCTIONJUNCTION
TO SAN SABASAN SABA
TO FREDERICKSBURG
PreviousNext

FREDERICKSBURG TO LEAKEY – 143 miles

Kick off your adventure in the charming town of Fredericksburg, located in the center of Texas wine country. The first stop of the day is at historic Luckenbach, (get a picture of your bike in front of the post office) followed by some superb backcountry twisties along Grape Creek, Bear Creek, and Center Point Roads. Be on the watch for deer as they are everywhere in the Hill Country and will dash right in front of you. Take a stop at historic Polly’s Chapel, built in 1879, and head through Bandera, “The Cowboy Capital of Texas”. The second half of today’s route introduces you to slick and exciting low water crossings that are abundant in the Texas Hill Country, so take them slow. You will end the day in Leakey after riding the best sections of RR 337, one of the famed “Three Twisted Sisters” (RR 335, 336, & 337).

Al’s Hideway
Experience Texas Hill Country hospitality with cabins, RV sites, and campsites in Pipe Creek, Texas. Just minutes from Bandera, Boerne, and San Antonio.

  • Address: 299 Willow Springs Drive, Pipe Creek, Texas 78063
  • Phone: (830) 510-3331
  • Visit Website »

Peach Tree Inn & Suites
Affordable, classic motor lodge style with ample parking

  • Address: 401 S Washington St, Fredericksburg, TX
  • Phone: (830) 997-2117
  • Visit Website »

Sunday House Inn & Suites
 Quirky German-heritage hotel right in downtown Fredericksburg—features two outdoor pools, a hot tub, free full breakfast, and complimentary parking for bikes and RVs. A solid choice for comfort, convenience, and walkable Main Street access.

  • Address: 501 E Main St, Fredericksburg, TX 78624
  • Phone: (830) 997-4484
  • Visit Website »

Treetop River Cabins
Enchanting cabin stays nestled in the treetops along the Guadalupe River—rustic yet fully equipped, with outdoor decks, fire pits, river access, and space to park and prep your bike easily.

River Oak Inn
Well-loved by riders: fair pricing, easy parking for bikes, and a laid-back atmosphere. Guests frequently praise it as “Great for motorcycles!”

  • Address: 1203 Main St, Bandera, TX 78003
  • Phone: (830) 796-7751

Sabinal River Lodge
Rustic Hill Country lodge right on the river—affordable, peaceful, with easy bike parking and a true outdoorsy vibe.

  • Address: 21749 Ranch Road 187, Utopia, TX 78884
  • Phone: 830-966-3393
  • Visit Website »

The Historic Leakey Inn
Rated motorcycle-friendly and a favorite for riders—it’s just two blocks south of the Three Sisters scenic route. Features rustic inn rooms and cabins, an on-site pool, pavilion, and the Back Porch Bar & Grill—perfect for unwinding post-ride

  • Address: 527 S Hwy 83, Leakey, TX 78873
  • Phone: (830) 232-3746
  • Visit Website »

Sunset Grill
Top breakfast and brunch stop with biker-friendly outdoor seating

  • Address: 405 East Live Oak, Fredericksburg, TX 78624
  • Phone: (830) 997-5904
  • Visit Website »

Luckenbach, Texas (General Store, Bar & Dancehall)
 Iconic Hill Country hangout where music, memory-making, and good ol’ Texas spirit meet—perfect post-ride wind-down.

  • Address: 412 Luckenbach Town Loop, Fredericksburg, TX 78624
  • Phone: (830) 997-3224
  • Visit Website »

Toucan Jim’s
 Tropical outdoor dining with island vibes in the Hill Country—perfect for a laid-back stop before or after a ride. Casual, pet-friendly, and plenty of outdoor seating.

  • Address: 5814 Highway 27, Center Point, TX 78010
  • Phone: (830) 634-2640
  • Visit Website » 

Brick’s River Cafe
Laid-back American fare by the Medina River—hearty burgers, chicken-fried favorites, easy parking for bikes.

  • Address: 1205 Main St, Bandera, TX 78003
  • Phone: (830) 796-9900
  • Visit Website »

The Lunchbox
 Fast-casual, no-nonsense burgers and diner classics made right—great for a quick bite with friendly service and parking that’s easy for gear-clad riders.

  • Address: 406 Main St, Utopia, TX
  • Phone: 830-966-5444

Utopia General Store
Historic town hub and convenience stop—grocery basics, gear, complimentary coffee, and local charm. Rider-friendly and perfect for a quick pit stop.

  • Address: 406 Main St, Utopia, TX 78884
  • Phone: (830) 966-3444

Mill Creek Café
 Down-home American diner serving breakfast, lunch, and an all-you-can-eat buffet—huge portions, free Wi-Fi, and plenty of parking for gear-clad riders. Home-cooked favorites like burgers, chicken-fried steak, southwest egg rolls, vegan options, and fresh-baked desserts—open nearly every day of the year. 

  • Address: 849 S US Highway 83, Leakey, TX 78873
  • Phone: (830) 232-4805

Fredericksburg, TX

Center Point, TX

Bandera, TX

Utopia, TX

Leakey, TX

Luckenbach
A tiny Hill Country town in Texas known for its live music, old-school dance hall, and saloon. A laid-back destination rooted in country music history.

Polly’s Chapel
Historic limestone chapel built in 1882 by José Policarpo “Polly” Rodriguez in Bandera County, Texas. Quiet and scenic, often used for weddings, ceremonies, or reflection.

Hill Country State Natural Area
Rugged terrain preserving oak trees, canyons, seasonal springs, and wildlife over 5,300+ acres. Primitive campsites, multi-use trails, very natural.

Twisted Sisters ‒ Hwy 335, 336, 337
Scenic, winding roads through the Texas Hill Country with sharp curves, river crossings, and switchbacks. A favorite among motorcyclists and road trip enthusiasts.

LEAKEY TO JUNCTION – 166 MILES

Sections 2 and 3 contain the most dirt of this BDR-X and includes the Three Dirty Sisters – Bullhead, Cedar Creek/White Mountain, and Old Junction Roads. Day 2 starts with the second of the Three Twisted Sisters (RR 336) and then turns to dirt along Bullhead Road and your introduction to “bump gates”. To get through, simply put your front wheel against the gate, gas it, and bump the gate open with your motorcycle. From there, you’ll enjoy a section of the third Twisted Sister as you ride south on RR 335. You will officially begin “Bump Gate University” in Barksdale as you pass through a dozen or so bump gates over the next 35 miles of superb Hill Country dirt riding on the Three Dirty Sisters.. Rocksprings offers a natural stopping point for fuel and refreshments before enjoying the most remote dirt road of this BDR-X, Old Junction Road. More low water crossings – all treacherously slick – are your final obstacle before ending in the town of Junction.

The Cowboy Motel
Roadside art-infused motel right in the heart of the Hill Country—ground-floor rooms, in-front parking for bikes, quirky décor, and all the essentials like smart TVs, fridges, and microwaves. Riders love the chill vibe and easy access to the Nueces River.

  • Address: 214 S Nueces St, Camp Wood, TX 78833
  • Phone: (830) 333-6074
  • Visit Website »

Historic Rocksprings Hotel
A one-of-a-kind, century-old hotel located right on the town square. Guests rave about its vintage Texas charm, peaceful verandah views, and easy bike parking. A classic stop where riders slow down, disconnect, and soak in true Hill Country ambiance.

  • Address: 200 West Austin St, Rocksprings, TX 78880
  • Phone: (830) 683-4212
  • Visit Website »

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Junction
Clean, comfortable hotel with free hot breakfast, a seasonal outdoor pool, gym, business center, and easy parking—ideal for riders needing convenience and comfort after a long day on the road.

  • Address: 304 Dos Rios Drive, Junction, TX 76849
  • Phone: 325-215-4377
  • Visit Website »

Canyon BBQ & Grill
Straight-up Texas BBQ with all the smoker favorites—brisket, ribs, and hefty sides, served with genuine Hill Country charm.

Jail House Bar & Grill
Rustic road-house vibes with delicious burgers, fries, and a welcoming, down-to-earth atmosphere perfect for riders.

  • Address: 108 W Austin St, Rocksprings, TX 78880
  • Phone: (830) 683-3366

Lum’s BBQ
Family-run barbecue joint since 1976—serving hearty brisket, ribs, turkey, and classic sides. Consistently praised as one of the top BBQ spots in the Hill Country and beloved by locals and riders alike.

  • Address: 1041 Main St, Junction, TX 76849
  • Phone: (325) 446-2635
  • Visit Website »

Camp Wood, TX

Rocksprings, TX

Junction, TX

Twisted Sisters — Hwy 336
A scenic part of the famous Texas “Twisted Sisters” loop (RM/FMs 335, 336 & 337), Hwy 336 features sharp curves, steep descents, and sweeping views of the Hill Country. Great for spirited riding and enjoying dramatic road scenery.

Bump Gates
Drive-through ranch gates built to swing on hinges, allowing vehicles to “bump” them open without leaving the seat. Common in rural Texas, they require a little skill to use safely so the gate doesn’t swing back onto your bike.

Devil’s Sinkhole State Natural Area
Located near Rocksprings in Edwards County, this natural area is home to one of Texas’ largest colonies of Mexican free-tailed bats. The site features a massive sinkhole shaft nearly 140 ft deep, guided tours (including bat flights), nature trails, and native wildlife in rugged landscape.

JUNCTION TO SAN SABA – 137 MILES

Section 3 takes you from the western edge of the Hill Country and its white limestone to the northern edge, characterized by reddish-brown granite. Ensure you have a full tank of gas before leaving Junction as there are no gas stations along this section. As you leave the bump gates behind, you will be treated to the sandiest sections of this BDR-X along Salt Branch Loop and Keyserville and Bauerville Roads. The Castell General Store is a great spot to take a break before tackling the second half of today’s route. Note how the terrain and road surfaces change as you ride north from Castell toward San Saba. Fly Gap Road is an exceptionally fun dirt road, but be mindful of your speed and Ride Right as the road is a narrow two-way road. The day ends in San Saba, the pecan capital of the world.

Mason Square Hotel
Boutique hotel with Texas flair—4 uniquely styled rooms, king beds, and a cozy feel right on the town square; great place to rest up and explore.

  • Address: 122 Fort McKavitt St, Mason, TX 76856
  • Phone: (325) 347-7829
  • Visit Website »

Burnham’s Lodging
Newer boutique rooms in historic downtown; off-street parking, clean, comfortable, good value and easy access to food and supplies.

  • Address: 501 E Wallace St, San Saba, TX 76877
  • Phone: (325) 372-5614
  • Visit Website »

Castell General Store
Historic general store turned burger joint—great for laid-back bites, cold drinks, local gear, and an easygoing Hill Country vibe, especially after paddling or riding.

  • Address: 19522 Ranch Road 152, Castell, TX 78643
  • Phone: (325) 247-4100
  • Visit Website »

Willow Creek Café & Club
Straight up home-style cooking on the Square—delicious breakfast and dinner staples, homemade rolls and pies, friendly service, and a classic Texas Hill Country vibe.

  • Address: 106 Ft. McKavitt St, Mason, TX 76856
  • Phone: (325) 347-6124
  • Visit Website »

Bar D Brewhouse
Relaxed local favorite serving up burgers, sandwiches, and comfort food with good beer, a solid stop for a casual dinner or a refueling stop.

  • Address: 213 N High St, San Saba, TX 76877
  • Phone: (325) 372-6100

Mason, TX – off-route

San Saba, TX

Historic Hilda Church
The Hilda United Methodist Church, in rural Mason County, TX, was built in 1902 using stone from an earlier 19th-century church. It sits in a small German-settled farming and ranching community halfway between Mason and Doss.

Castell General Store
Located at Ranch Road 152 west of Llano, Texas, this rustic store built in 1927 by the local blacksmith has become a local gathering spot. It serves food (burgers, barbecues), cold drinks, groceries and acts as a social hub, especially on weekends with live music and community events.

SAN SABA TO FREDERICKSBURG – 202 MILES

Leaving San Saba you’ll enjoy scenic pavement and a few sections of fun dirt as you make your way south to Llano. Cooper’s Old Time BBQ in Llano is one of the most popular BBQ joints in Texas and shouldn’t be missed by the meat lovers in your group. Leaving Llano, enjoy excellent dirt riding along CR 315. While the Willow City Loop is always scenic, it is exceptionally beautiful in the spring when the bluebonnet flowers are in bloom. If time permits, pay a visit to Enchanted Rock State Natural Area (fee required). The sand, low water crossings, and two-track along Threadgill Creek Rd will be a highlight of your dirt riding today. You’ll end the day riding the exceptional pavement of Crenwelge, Pecan, and Louton roads into Fredericksburg and the end of the Texas Hill Country BDR-X.

Llano Motel
Affordable motel with basic but clean rooms, free parking, easy access to fuel and food—good for keeping costs down and getting rest before riding out.

  • Address: 507 W Young St, Llano, TX 78643
  • Phone: (325) 247-5292

Cherokee Corner Cafe
Local café offering homestyle breakfast and lunch—coffee, sandwiches, and a chill place to refuel any weekday.

  • Address: 101 S Indian Ave, Cherokee, TX 76832
  • Phone: (325) 622-4599

Burger Bar Cafe
Family-friendly joint serving burgers, Mexican favorites, daily specials, and everything made from scratch—solid portion sizes and dependable quality.

  • Address: 604 Bessemer Ave, Llano, TX 78643
  • Phone: (325) 247-5200
  • Visit Website »

Doss Store & Country Kitchen
Country store + kitchen serving steaks, burgers, sandwiches, salads, pasta & seafood. They also do brunch on Sundays.

  • Address: 14394 N Ranch Road 783, Doss, TX 7861
  • Phone: (830) 669-2111
  • Visit Website »

Cherokee, TX

Llano, TX

Colorado Bend State Park
A rugged Hill Country park 2 hours northwest of Austin featuring hiking & biking trails, caves & springs, swimming holes, and the scenic Gorman Falls waterfall.

Willow City Loop
A 13-mile scenic drive through ranch country just outside Fredericksburg, Texas. Winding two-lane road through deep canyons and flower-filled meadows, especially striking in the spring wildflower season.

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
North of Fredericksburg, a massive pink granite dome that offers hiking, camping, rock climbing, nature trails, and sweeping 360-degree views over the Hill Country.

PLAN YOUR ADVENTURE

TEXAS HILL COUNTRY 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

TEXAS HILL COUNTRY MOTORCYCLE DEALERSHIPS

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Below are answers to some Frequently Asked Questions about the Texas Hill Country BDR-X.

The Texas Hill Country BDR-X (THC) is a 650-mile adventure route through the stunning terrain of central Texas. Experience dirt roads and twisty pavement, including parts of the famous Three Twisted Sisters and the “Three Dirty Sisters.” Countless low water crossings, shallow sand, and iconic “bump gates” bring plenty of excitement, and the small towns you’ll visit are interesting and full of kind folks, plus some of the region’s best barbecue. The Texas Hill Country brings riders a collection of incredible twisty roads, elevation change, and unforgettable Texas culture.

The Texas Hill Country BDR-X can typically be ridden almost year-round, with the best conditions in spring and fall. Summer temperatures and humidity can be quite high, and winter is generally mild but can get quite cold at times. Always check weather forecasts and check local conditions before heading out.

This is one of the more moderate routes in the BDR lineup, consisting of approximately a 50/50 dirt to pavement ratio. Most of the route is flowy twisty paved roads and dirt/gravel. There are no optional advanced sections on this route. The most challenging aspects are the potential for some sand, and the numerous low bridge water crossings. These are concrete platforms designed for the water to run over, and can be extremely slick with algae, and occasionally can flood. Use extra caution and ride very slowly across concrete low bridges.

This route is perhaps the most desolate and remote feeling of any BDR. Although parts of the route go through a National Park and several small towns, there are long stretches of very remote and primitive roads where you may not see anyone for hours, and be a long way from cell service or assistance. We strongly encourage riders to be fully self-sufficient and have skill in navigation, field repairs, first aid, and other emergency situations. Have the right tools for the job, bring an umbrella or tarp to provide shade if you’re stuck, have adequate water, food, and fuel, share your itinerary with others, and have a way to communicate in emergency situations with a satellite phone or SOS device.

This route can be ridden throughout most of the year, with the biggest weather concerns being the middle of winter which can be quite cold and see freezing temps, and the middle of summer which can see high temperatures and humidity. We recommend riders plan to experience this route in the spring and fall seasons.

Yes. This route was designed to be ridden in a clockwise direction, however you can start or end at any point on this route, and ride it counter-clockwise. Always be mindful of oncoming traffic and RIde Right.

The time it takes to ride a BDR can vary based on many factors including your fuel range, preparedness, riding skill, stamina, breakdowns, weather, and many other factors. This route is divided into four sections, which does not necessarily mean the number of days, or how you should break up your trip. On average this route will take riders 3-5 days to complete.

Street legal motorcycles with a license plate can ride the THC.

There are no ALT Harder sections on this route.

Camping is very limited in the Texas Hill Country as much of this region is private. Camping is typically allowed only in established campgrounds such as State Parks.

Always check with local Ranger Stations to determine if campfires are allowed before you build one. In most cases, campfires are only allowed in established fire rings. 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 wildfires. 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.

The longest distance between available gas on the Texas Hill Country BDR-X is the entire span of Section 3 from Junction to San Saba at 137 miles, with fuel available at nearby Mason or Doss. Even if your bike’s range is well beyond the gas stop distances, we recommend always topping off your gas and carrying extra fuel.

There are numerous lodging opportunities along the length of the route, some with historic origins. Other towns adjacent to the route may have additional lodging. We recommend riders book their stays in advance.

This route cannot be ridden without the use of GPS tracks. Be prepared and bring the official BDR Map AND your navigation device with the latest GPS tracks loaded. Free GPS tracks are available for download on this site. The route can also be navigated using a smartphone GPS navigation app like Gaia, OnX, Rever, and others. The Texas Hill Country BDR-X expedition documentary film is a great source of information about the route and is available for free on YouTube.com/ridebdr.

Any modern GPS unit capable of handling multiple tracks with a minimum of 1500 points each is suitable. Garmin models that work best for this application are: Zumo XT, XT2, 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 navigation app, like OnX Offroad or Gaia GPS, but make sure you have the premium version of the app so you can download and navigate via offline maps.

Cell phone service is generally available on this route, however, some areas will have no service, and a satellite communicator, sat phone, or tracking device is recommended for emergency situations.

Any bike that has a license plate, can run knobby DOT 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 given the nature of this route and the ratio of pavement to dirt, a smaller cc bike may not be the most comfortable for the pavement sections.

DOT approved knobby tires are strongly recommended. Riding this route without at least a 50/50 tire (50% dirt, 50% road) would not be advisable.

Segments of this route can be ridden two-up for those experienced in riding off-highway with a passenger and luggage.

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

The THC 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, it’s best to stay on the track to avoid trespassing. In all cases, riders should never ride off the main road which damages vegetation. Please remember that riding off the designated roads can jeopardize our right to use these roads for recreation.

This route is known for its iconic bump gates, and there are many of them. These heavy, spring-loaded steel gates are meant to keep cattle contained, and are designed so cars and trucks can come up to them, and ‘bump’ them open with their cars and drive through. You can do the same with your motorcycle, but it takes practice. Watch the documentary film for more info, and after passing through each gate, look in your mirrors to ensure it’s closed.

If you encounter normal barbed-wire cattle 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 and homes, 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, please do not ride around the signs as that can put you and work crews in danger and can get you a hefty fine. Check the BDR website for route updates before you go.

Please abide by posted road closure signs. Ignoring these signs is a sure way of getting a road closed for good. That said, sometimes locals will post unofficial “road closed” or “dead end” 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. Check local websites for each state for restrictions and permitting info if you intend to fish.

We do our best to post the most up-to-date information about the route on the website. 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 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: Texas Hill Country BDR-X Backcountry Discovery Route.

Central Texas is a habitat for many animals like deer as well as smaller animals like squirrels 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. Deer are a major concern throughout this route and you can expect to see many of them so ride with caution.

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 are 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 THC are public and open to licensed vehicles. If you do decide to drive this route you will need a reliable 4×4 with high clearance. Always stay to the right and go slow around blind corners to avoid head-on accidents with others using the roads. We recommend traveling in a clockwise fashion as this route is intended to minimize head-on traffic.

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, Adirondacks

Challenging: Black Hills, Chattahoochee, Hells Canyon, Lost Coast

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

Review the FAQs for each route before your trip.

Backcountry Discovery Routes is a 501c(3) non-profit corporation. © 2026 Backcountry Discovery Routes, Inc. All rights reserved. Terms of Use.