PreviousNext
1234

Come experience the best adventure motorcycle riding America has to offer with Backcountry Discovery Routes!

See rural America, and get a taste of the trails that shaped early American history.  From the Western slopes and mining towns of the Gold Rush era, to the battlefields of the American revolution — you can explore America’s magnificent public lands by motorcycle.  Enjoy towering mountain vistas, expansive desert solitude, and sounds of wildlife, while riding incredibly fun terrain by motorcycle. You’ll explore remote dirt roads and tiny towns that most people will never see.

Making this adventure motorcycling dream is easier than you think.

The non-profit organization, Backcountry Discovery Routes, has made it easy with free GPS tracks and helpful trip planning resources for each of the nine routes. For visitors from outside the USA, there are fly & ride opportunities with motorcycle rentals and guided, or self-guided tours available.

Check out the current offerings from the BDR Preferred Tour & Rental Partners listed below.

MOTODISCOVERY

MotoDiscovery is one of the longest operating and most experienced motorcycle tour companies in the world.

Read More
Since 1981 they have earned a global reputation for imaginative itineraries, pioneering riding tours and expeditions in over 40 different countries. With a fresh series of BDR-inspired tours their extensive international experience is applied with a keen awareness of the unique needs of the international traveler. Multilingual staff teams are an important component to assure sincere hospitality and service. Support systems and carefully prepared rental motorcycles from Suzuki, Honda, Yamaha and KTM lines, fulfill the riding demands. The Grand Junction, Colorado office location is in the heart of some of the best riding the USA has to offer. More than just a ride a MotoDiscovery touring event stirs the imagination as you are introduced to the history, the natural beauty, wildlife and the best of roads. It is complete Americana, done with style, a commitment to hospitality, safely and with the best of value. That is the MotoDiscovery way. Since 1981. Call us today + (830) 438-7744 or e-mail your questions to info@motodiscovery.com

COLORADO MOTORCYCLE ADVENTURES

Colorado Motorcycle Adventures is the western USA’s elite motorcycle rental, tour and adventure company.

Read More
We are the only BMW Internationally Certified Tour Guide company in the USA and a Destination Yamaha facility for Yamaha Motorcycles. Whether you want a one day adventure ride or the three week ride-of-a-lifetime, we can supply all your needs. Colorado Motorcycle Adventures has been riding motorcycles and exploring this great country for over 20 years. We feature a full-service rental facility in Denver, CO, a short 25 minute drive from the Denver International Airport, a rental fleet consisting of BMW, KTM, Husqvarna, Yamaha, Triumph, and Honda motorcycles, as well as full riding gear (helmets, jackets, pants and gloves).  For those wanting a full turn-key experience we can put together your entire trip by planning your route, providing your motorcycle, booking your accommodations, recommending restaurants and offering airport transfers. For your next motorcycle adventure in the western USA, visit us online at ColoradoMotorcycleAdventures.com, or give us a call at 720.505.2030 and let us put our local knowledge and helpful staff to work for you!

BACKCOUNTRY EXPEDITIONS

Backcountry Expeditions is a British-owned adventure motorcycle tours & training company offering a range of premium, all-inclusive expeditions with a maximum of 4 riders on each expedition.

Read More

We provide week-long Backcountry Discovery Route (BDR) adventures, shorter ‘Best Of’ routes, custom expeditions or skills training for those new to adventure motorcycling.

Everything is included: pre-ride consultation, personalized planning, your choice of BMW GS motorcycle, airport transfers, accommodation (optional backcountry camping, we provide premium camping equipment), all food & drinks (adult refreshments included), logistics & safety crew, and more. With a fleet of 2019 BMW adventure motorcycles, premium equipment and industry-leading guides & instructors, we’re ready to welcome you on our next adventure!

Founded and initially operating out of the UK, we have established our headquarters in Durango, Colorado. This central location means we deliver all BDR routes to our international clients.

Ride & enjoy the remote backcountry while we take care of the rest! Call us today on 910.585.2138, email Neil at neil@backcountryexpeditions.co or visit backcountryexpeditions.co to see full details of our upcoming expeditions.

FIND YOUR ADVENTURE

NORTH EAST BDR

Crossing more state lines and covering more mileage than any other BDR makes the NEBDR one of the most diverse routes in the BDR series. Every state delivers a unique experience unto itself and while sections can be done over an extended weekend, riders who commit to the entire 1,300-mile route will truly feel as though they had an adventure of a lifetime.

Best time of year: The NEBDR uses seasonal roads that open as early as April 30th in NY and as late as May 30th in VT, NH & ME. The earliest the route can be ridden in entirety would be June 1st. Depending on the winter snowfall, the route can be very muddy and slippery in some places during the spring time and early summer. The best time to ride the NEBDR is mid-June to mid-October.

Difficulty: Intermediate to Expert

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA BDR

A spectacular, yet challenging 820-mile ride across the south-eastern region of California. Rugged two-track and remote dirt roads lead riders through majestic canyons, rocky riverbeds, and sandy washes of California’s famous deserts and national preserves, including a dream ride in the Mojave Preserve.

Best time of year: Mid-October until mid-April. This is a wintertime route, but winter storms may hamper some times and elevations may see some snow. Although parts of this route can be ridden in winter, storms and bad weather may prevent some sections from being available and higher elevation terrain may be unavailable due to winter snowpack.

Difficulty: Intermediate to Expert

MID-ATLANTIC BDR

A scenic ride that uses dirt, gravel and paved roads to wind through remote parts of Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania. This 1,080-mile route primarily uses forest roads and rural country lanes, to lead riders through the Appalachian mountains, majestic forests, bucolic farming landscapes, Amish country, and locations that played pivotal roles in early American history.

Best time of year: Mid-May until the first snow fall in late fall

Difficulty: Beginner Plus, but becomes Intermediate depending on bad weather and road conditions.

NEVADA BDR

Nevada’s 900-mile south-to-north route leads riders on miles of meandering two-track roads through Nevada’s expansive deserts, open sagebrush valleys, and seemingly endless mountain ranges. You’ll visit ghost towns, quirky taverns, see desert sculptures, murals, and the world’s largest car forest.

Best time of year: Sections in the South are ridable April, May, October, and November, and in most cases throughout the winter. Northern sections are best June to October. We suggest: Ride from the North to the South in the summer until you can’t stand the heat; and ride from the South to the North until you can’t take the cold.

Difficulty: Intermediate

IDAHO BDR

If you’ve ever wanted to ride endless twisty mountain roads, the Idaho BDR will throw corners at you for days on end. It’s a true off-the-grid ride that is long enough, at 1,250 miles, that you might just use up an entire rear knobby tire.

Best time of year: July through October, if no early snow storms have occurred.

Difficulty: Intermediate

NEW MEXICO BDR

Hot springs, and lakeside camping can be found on your way into the mountains of the Gila National Forest of New Mexico and you’ll even be a stone’s throw from Arizona before heading back to the north east toward Colorado. Highlights of this 1,200 mile backcountry adventure includes Chloride Canyon, long stretches between towns, wild horse sightings, and endless dispersed camping options.

Best time of year: June and September.

Difficulty: Intermediate

ARIZONA BDR

Rocky, remote and hot are three words that come to mind for Arizona. Blessed with a surprising number of mountain ranges, the Arizona BDR is more green and mountainous than many people expect. Starting on the US/Mexico border, the 750-mile route stays east of Tucson and Phoenix with options to see the Grand Canyon from vantage points most people never see.

Best time of year: May, June, September, October.

Difficulty: Intermediate

COLORADO BDR

With several passes over 12,000 feet, there is no shortage of views on this ride. Beginning in the four corners location where, Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico and Utah intersect, the 675-mile route winds its way north through the Rocky Mountains to the Wyoming border. The terrain includes dirt roads with rocks, sand and even a few water crossings to keep it exciting.

Best time of year: July through September, and sometimes October if no early snow storms have occurred.

Difficulty: Intermediate

UTAH BDR

This 871-mile route will take riders to some iconic places like Valley of the Gods, Moab, the Abajo and La Sal mountains, Onion Creek, 9 Mile Canyon and the Wasatch Mountains. Utah is unpredictable with mud that is impassable when wet. Deep sand also challenges riders in places, and a few expert-only options provide excitement for those who seek adrenaline.

Best time of year: August through October depending on early snow storms and weather.

Difficulty: Intermediate Plus to Expert

WASHINGTON BDR

Thoroughly exploring the Cascade Mountains, this 575-mile route has stunning views of the massive volcanoes from the dense forest in the southern part, and the open arid pine forests of the central part of the route, showcasing the diversity of Washington.

Best time of year: July through October depending on snowpack and weather.

Difficulty: Intermediate

BDR International Visitor FAQ

To assist international visitors who are planning a trip to the US to ride a Backcountry Discovery Route, we have put together answers to the most common questions below.

Menu
  • General Questions
  • About the Booking Process
  • Tour Organization
  • Nature of the Routes

General Questions:

Where can I get more information about the BDR Tours and Motorcycle Rentals?

For international riders, a variety of motorcycle rentals, fly & ride opportunities, and touring options are available through the BDR Preferred Touring & Rental companies listed on this page. Visit the web sites of these tour companies for a listing of the BDR tours, rentals and self-guided tours currently available.

Is there somebody I may contact for detailed information?

For information about the BDR tour offerings, contact individual tour companies. For general information about the BDR, contact us at info@ridebdr.com.

What is BDR?

The non-profit organization, Backcountry Discovery Routes, has worked to create and preserve riding opportunities for the dual-sport and adventure motorcycle community since 2010. The routes explore remote two-track and dirt roads far from civilization in the wildlands of America’s backcountry. BDR routes feature fun terrain, wildlife encounters, towering mountain passes, expansive high deserts, unique historical landmarks and charming quaint towns that most people never get to see. In addition to creating routes, the organization offers planning resources on its website and works to educate the community on Safety, Riding Etiquette, and best practices for exploring roads less travelled. The organization also works to protect motorized access to the many roads that make up each BDR.

Which BDR would you recommend first?

Each BDR has its own unique landscapes, terrain, people and adventure. Routes tend to reflect the character of the state or region. Viewing the photos or video of a given route on the BDR website is a good way to learn about them. The most popular routes among international riders are the COBDR and the UTBDR for their stunning scenery and unique picture-perfect landscapes. The IDBDR is also a good choice for someone looking for less challenging terrain, but a remote and rural Western experience. The CABDR-South offers some of the best riding in the California deserts and national preserves, but requires good technical skills for riding sand, lose rocks and other difficult terrain. The NMBDR is a food lover’s paradise, and features flavors of Native American culture. The MABDR is a good route for many people as it has the least difficult terrain of any of the BDRs. In addition to dirt and gravel roads the MABDR has some incredibly fun paved roads in various forests.

Are the tour operators part of BDR or are they independent companies?

The tour operators are independent companies, who have a focus on offering tours and rentals on Backcountry Discovery Routes. All companies listed on this page have received a “seal of approval” by the BDR because they have a proven track record of successful BDR tours and meeting high standards for professionalism, and integrity when serving their customers.

What’s the difference in the tour operating companies?

Each company has its own business style and offers a variety of BDR tours, options for rentals, and self-guided packages. All are qualified and have experience serving international customers. The trip itineraries, dates, and bike models available vary by company, so review their websites to explore the options.

What are the riding skill requirements?

IMPORTANT:

BDRs are NOT intended for novice riders! You need to be an intermediate rider to attempt any of the BDRs. Road conditions may include pavement, hard pack dirt, gravel, loose rock, ruts, mud, water crossings, sand, and steep hills. The riding can get technical in places depending on the current conditions.

Some routes are easier than others, and the tour companies are great resources for helping you understand the challenges of a particular route. The tour companies may offer easier route options for less experienced riders and can help customize a riding itinerary to fit your skill level. We recommend speaking openly with the tour company about your riding skills and experience when choosing a BDR tour and selecting the motorcycle model that  meets your needs.

You and your bike should be in excellent working order and you should be wearing proper protective riding gear. A fresh set of knobby tires like Continental TKC 80s, Bridgestone AX41, or equivalent dual sport tires is a must.

Are there prerequisites for maximum / minimum ages?

Riding any BDR is an adventure which can be physically demanding and will require strength and stamina to complete. Be sure that you are in good physical shape and that you don’t have any medical conditions that might prevent you from having successful experience. Check with the individual tour companies about minimum age requirements for their services.

We are a group of friends and would like to book a tour just for us. Is this possible?

Please contact BDR Preferred Partners listed on this page for custom tour options.

Information About Booking Process:

Do I book online?

You can book directly with the tour companies by following the instructions on their websites or contacting them by phone or email.

What kind of information will I receive after booking?

You will receive a confirmation of your booking and information on next steps from the tour company.

What are the terms of cancellation for me (in case of sickness etc.)?

Please inquire with the tour company about their cancellation policy.

Will I have my money back if the tour is cancelled by the operator?

Each tour company has its own cancelation policy, but as a general rule, if the tour is canceled by the operator, your deposit/payment will be returned to you promptly.

For what reasons might a tour operator cancel a tour?

While it is rare to have a tour cancelled, it can occur if a tour doesn’t reach a minimum number of participants, or if the route is not feasible to ride due to road conditions or weather events. You can ask the tour operator if the tour is likely to get cancelled for any reason and they can explain the possibilities.

Tour Organization (self-guided, guided):

Do I have to book a tour or can I ride on my own?

The BDR routes are open source. GPS tracks for all BDR routes are available for FREE at RideBDR.com. International riders have a number of options for exploring the BDRs on a motorcycle.

  1. Fly and ship your bike to the US to ride a BDR(s).
  2. Fly and rent a motorcycle from one of the BDR Partner companies to ride a BDR. Use BDR online resources to plan your trip and make your own hotel and/or camping reservations. Or have the tour company help you put together a self-guided tour complete with hotel reservations for each night.
  3. Join one of the existing BDR tours offered by one of the BDR Preferred Partners.
  4. Choose a custom guided or self-guided tour made just for your group by one of the BDR Preferred Partners.

Where can I find more information about the routes and the infrastructure along the route?

You will find the most complete information about BDR routes at RideBDR.com. Additional information can also be found on the printed Butler Motorcycle Map for each route

Nature of the routes:

Is BDR only off-road?

Most of the BDR routes are mostly dirt and gravel with some pavement. The Mid-Atlantic BDR, however, is about 50% dirt and 50% pavement.

Are all BDR routes of the same difficulty level?

The BDRs vary in level of difficulty and can become easier or harder depending on current road conditions and weather which can change by the minute. Generally speaking, the CABDR-South, UTBDR and AZBDR are more difficult. The COBDR, NVBDR, NMBDR, are in the middle, but can be difficult in certain places. WABDR, IDBDR and MABDR are least difficult, but have their own challenges. Read the FAQs for each route on the RideBDR.com website for more detailed description of the route terrain and common challenges.

When are the best times to ride BDRs?

Refer to the information on the landing page or read the FAQ on each route page at RideBDR.com.

Where do I fly to if I want to ride a BDR?

The arrival airport depends on which BDR you’re doing, and how you’re accomplishing it. Each BDR has a recommended starting point usually accessible via a suggested route from a major city. If you’re arranging your trip with the help of one of the tours companies, they will provide advice based on your travel itinerary.

I normally ride a certain bike – may I ride it on a BDR?

The BDRs were created with the adventure and dual sport rider in mind. The motorcycle you choose needs to be street legal with a license plate, must be able to ride off-road and have the capability to carry the gear you will be traveling with. The bike should also be of the size and power that you can handle in challenging terrain. A wide range of motorcycles are available for rent by our Preferred Partners.

Are there also beginner levels?

MABDR is the least difficult route, but has tricky sections as well. In general, BDRs are not recommended for beginning off-road riders. By the time you ride a BDR you should have a few overnight off-road / dual sport trips in your experience. You should be comfortable riding off-road with a fully-loaded motorcycle150 miles (8 hours) per day for a week straight. Note, that some of our Preferred Companies offer off-road training as part of their BDR tours, or help you take easier workarounds while on the route. Inquire with our Preferred Partners for options.

May I ride with my partner as a pillion?

Riding with a passenger (pillion) is not recommended on BDRs.

How many miles / km a day is a standard BDR ride?

The routes are generally designed to cover between 125 and 200 miles per day and take 6-8 days to complete. Check the tour options and details with individual Preferred Partners.

LEARN MORE ABOUT BACKCOUNTRY DISCOVERY ROUTES®

LEARN MORE

INDUSTRY SUPPORTERS

 
 
Backcountry Discovery Routes is a 501c(3) non-profit corporation. © 2022 - 2023 Backcountry Discovery Routes, Inc. All rights reserved. Terms of Use.
Scroll to top

This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site, you are agreeing to our use of cookies.

Accept settingsSettings

Cookie and Privacy Settings



How we use cookies

We may request cookies to be set on your device. We use cookies to let us know when you visit our websites, how you interact with us, to enrich your user experience, and to customize your relationship with our website.

Click on the different category headings to find out more. You can also change some of your preferences. Note that blocking some types of cookies may impact your experience on our websites and the services we are able to offer.

Essential Website Cookies

These cookies are strictly necessary to provide you with services available through our website and to use some of its features.

Because these cookies are strictly necessary to deliver the website, refusing them will have impact how our site functions. You always can block or delete cookies by changing your browser settings and force blocking all cookies on this website. But this will always prompt you to accept/refuse cookies when revisiting our site.

We fully respect if you want to refuse cookies but to avoid asking you again and again kindly allow us to store a cookie for that. You are free to opt out any time or opt in for other cookies to get a better experience. If you refuse cookies we will remove all set cookies in our domain.

We provide you with a list of stored cookies on your computer in our domain so you can check what we stored. Due to security reasons we are not able to show or modify cookies from other domains. You can check these in your browser security settings.

Other external services

We also use different external services like Google Webfonts, Google Maps, and external Video providers. Since these providers may collect personal data like your IP address we allow you to block them here. Please be aware that this might heavily reduce the functionality and appearance of our site. Changes will take effect once you reload the page.

Google Webfont Settings:

Google Map Settings:

Google reCaptcha Settings:

Vimeo and Youtube video embeds:

Accept settingsHide notification only
en_USEnglish
es_ESSpanish de_DEGerman fr_FRFrench it_ITItalian en_USEnglish