Wyoming Backcountry Discovery Route

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The long awaited Wyoming BDR (WYBDR) is our eleventh route developed for dual-sport and adventure motorcycle travel.

The Wyoming Backcountry Discovery Route is a multi-day off-pavement ride for dual-sport and adventure motorcycles through the most dramatic and rugged landscapes in Wyoming.  Beginning in Baggs, WY, the route traces the mountain ranges to the east through the Sierra Madre and Medicine Bow Ranges, crosses west to the Wind River Range, then goes back east and north through the Bighorn Mountains, eventually ending at a remote Wyoming-Montana border.  Almost every section includes some moderately technical riding, as the remote two-track flows through regions of vast high-desert, short-grass prairies, and alpine climates.  You will experience expansive views from the summit of two different 11,000-foot mountains, cross two major rim escarpments and pass through many other seldom visited areas and historic mining towns.  This is the most remote BDR, so plan ahead and be prepared to have a true backcountry adventure.

WYBDR – SECTION DESCRIPTIONS

Section 1: Baggs to Centennial – 161 Miles

The WYBDR begins in Baggs, Wyoming just 2.6 miles north of the Colorado border. This is a great place to get provisions for the trip as they have a grocery store. Lodging is available and convenient as you’ll probably be getting here from out of town (reserve rooms ahead if possible). 

The route officially begins with a short paved segment on Highway 789. Pay attention for a turn that comes up quickly on the right which leads you into the vast treeless region known as Wild Horse Basin. Enjoy the views and the firm dirt track which makes a nice introduction to Wyoming’s backcountry. This section ends when it descends into the Savery Creek Valley and passes by Boyer YL Ranch, another lodging option for the start of the WYBDR. A side trip to the historic town of Savery (pop. 25) is worthwhile.

Riders will then ascend out of the valley onto a blissful track with sagebrush and aspen trees called Savery Stock Drive which is impassible when wet as the mud will be too slippery and sticky to ride. This mud warning applies to all of the non-forested sections of the WYBDR. One more bit of pavement leads past the Battle Mountain Viewpoint before a northward turn begins a long segment through the Sierra Madre Range. Immediately riders will go through the unmistakable “Aspen Alley” where photographs are in order. Then riders will pass through burned forests before stopping to make a decision. The first harder option on the WYBDR goes over the Continental Divide Trail and Bridger Peak (elev. 11,004 ft). This option is not doable early in the season and after the first snowfall in autumn. If you’re here in July and August and you are an advanced rider who enjoys steep rocky 4×4 trails, this is for you. Otherwise enjoy the scenic and bucolic option that bypasses this massive mountain. Both options end in the town of Encampment/Riverside (pop. 460 combined) where you should re-fuel.

The next section uses pavement and wide dirt roads heading eastward towards the next mountain range. The road ascends from the North Platte River Valley and passesthrough another burned forest before getting to Rob Roy Reservoir in the heart ofMedicine Bow-Routt National Forest. Camping is available at Holmes Campground and v Rob Roy Campground at the north end of the lake. For those staying at Rob Roy consider the side trip up to Spruce Mountain Lookout for superb views of the area. The BDR leavesRob Roy going northward and the track gets a bit rougher. Watch for puddles and sharp rocks as the track continues and turns NE before leaving the Medicine Bow Mountains And descending to the historic town of Centennial (pop. 308).

Section 2: Centennial to Elk Mtn – 68 Miles

After leaving Centennial, riders will begin ascending into the Snowy Mountains area of Medicine Bow – Routt National Forest. The first part follows paved twisties on Barber Lake Road through Libby Creek Recreation Area before returning to the highway.

After a couple miles of pavement on Highway 130, watch for a right turn which soon becomes Towner Lake Road, a rugged scenic track below the Snowy Mountains. Look for moose which frequent the small lakes along this road. You’ll find campgrounds galore in this area north of the highway. The brief dirt thoroughfare connects back to pavement and heads westward on Highway 130. Stop at one of the two signed viewpoints along this section to photograph the mountains.

As Highway 130 descends you’ll have to decide again whether to take a harder section. This one involves a deep water crossing and rugged forested roads for eight miles. Early in the riding season this creek crossing might be too deep and fast flowing to attempt. If so, just take the main route.

A 6.5 mile long side trip leads up to the summit of Kennaday Peak (elev. 10,810 ft). Early in the year snow will linger and after the first snows of fall appear this summit might not be attainable. At other times, it’s worth the extra time as the riding is top notch and the views at the summit are rewarding.

   

The rest of this section heads north through typical forest roads before the skies open again to treeless farmlands and wide fast roads leading to the town of Elk Mountain (pop. 194). We recommend filling up at the gas station where the track crosses Interstate 80 as it has high octane fuel and the one in Medicine Bow does not. 

Section 3: Elk Mtn to Alcova – 122 Miles

After crossing the interstate, look for a road on the right and follow the track as it heads north on seldom traveled County Rd 115. This bit of two-track heaven meanders through sage hills and shallow valleys as it connects I-80 to Highway 30. Along the way you’ll need to open and close a few gates in barbed wire fences. Near the north end look for old rock walls that still stand from the abandoned mining town of Carbon (circa 1881). The town’s substantial cemetery can be found on the west side of the road too. After the dirt ends you have roughly nine miles of tarmac before reaching the town of Medicine Bow (pop. 284).

The WYBDR turns north onto a long paved segment on Highways 487 and 77 and passes the countless wind turbines of Dunlap Wind Farm. The track then ascends into the Shirleys on moderate-level roads with loose rocks, occasional ruts and sandy patches. You’ll soon descend more fun roads and the trees will open up to sage covered high desert again. The roads north of the Shirley Mountains are wide and fast. They seem to go on forever, but eventually they pass by Alcova Reservoir, descend a red rock canyon and end at the town of Alcova (pop. 86)

Section 4: Alcova to Atlantic City – 140 Miles

Top off your fuel tank in Alcova and stock up on food and drinks as the next stretch is 140 miles long and remote to say the least. Leaving Alcova you’ll ride 19 miles of Highway 220 before heading off-pavement for the remainder of that day. 

This is the beginning of the Beaver Rim section and it starts with easy riding on Dry Creek Road but don’t let that fool you. Thus begins the many miles of doubletrack that can be loose sand, round rocks, deep ruts, slippery puddles and everything in between. It’s a scenic and spectacularly fun riding challenge you’ll never forget. It is important to pay close attention to the track on this section as there are many private landowner parcels that the route skirts–stay on public land! 

Save your energy as this will be a long day and you’ll need to stay focused on the track. There are many places to stop for photos when you reach the rim itself and continue along its rolling roads. If the daylight dwindles or your internal reserves run low there are a couple roads to bail on that will get you south to  Highway 287. The main optional bail point is Ore Road which is near the center of Beaver Rim and takes you to Jeffrey City and a gas station which is occasionally open, but don’t count on it. Those who are desperate and find the station closed, can limp another 24 miles on highway 789 south to Muddy Gap.

After Ore Road you are pretty committed to completing this entire section. The going finally gets easier as you start heading southeast on wider roads. At the end of this grueling section you’ll be in historic Atlantic City (pop. 39). Stop into Miners Grubstake for a meal and drinks and stay at Miner’s Delight BnB. The owner, Bill, sells fuel here as well. Fuel is also available in nearby Lander. 

Section 5: Atlantic City to Shoshoni – 130 Miles

Soon after leaving Atlantic City you’ll pass by the remains of Carissa Mine (circa 1867). The gold found in this mine led to a surging population in the area and the founding of South Pass City (pop. 57). This restored historic town is worth a stop as the buildings are often open for viewing and there’s a museum and gift shop as well.

The route becomes an undulating doubletrack after crossing Highway 28. It’s short but sweet riding and soon connects to a wide road crossing the south end of the Wind River Range. This section on Forest Road 300 is one of the highest trafficked sections of the WYBDR so go slow and watch for vehicles on every corner, and Ride Right. You’ll pass by several lakes including Louis Lake, Fiddlers Lake and Frye Lake along this section and several campgrounds run by Shoshone National Forest.Eventually, the dirt ends and the pavement begins, but don’t fret, this is a wonderful bit of tarmac. 

Eight sweeping switchbacks take you down from the Wind Rivers to the Middle Popo Agie River Valley below. After the switch backs end, look for signs for Sinks Canyon StatePark. This park has two parking lots, one for where the river disappears underground and another 1 1/2 miles down the road where it “rises” in a calm pool full of hungry trout (you can feed them for a quarter).

In a few miles you’ll reach Lander, the largest city on this BDR and home to NOLS. Lander has all the services you’ll need so fuel up the body and the bike. A few miles of pavement riding gets you to the town of Hudson and the start of a long section of dirt roads through wide open spaces dotted with mining and extraction sites. It’s not the most exciting section of the WYBDR but it goes around the Wind River Indian Reservation. You will pass by unique and colorful sandstone formations on this section and go right through a gas plant on a public road. There are Poison Gas Warning signs in the area and it feels strange but ride on through (if the lights aren’t flashing). This section ends at Shoshoni (pop. 515) where you must fuel up again.

Section 6: Shoshoni to Ten Sleep – 104 Miles

Leaving Shoshoni and continuing northward the WYBDR follows the wide dirt Badwater Road past more mining and extraction areas. It’s fast fun riding and after passing a couple small mining support towns (Lysite and Lost Cabin) the route ascends towards Cottonwood Pass (elev. 6,727). This barely noticeable pass marks the beginning of a memorable section that descends the Nowood Road towards Ten Sleep.This farm-filled valley is surrounded by rock walls to create a high contrast of greens and reds. It’s picturesque to say the least. Riders will pass through a narrow gap where Nowood River has carved its way through a ridge on Mahogany Butte.

After a few more miles on Upper Nowood Road through bucolic settings, theroute branches off onto County Road 58 where the track gets a little rougher and definitely integrates more red hues into its surface. Eventually CR 58 connects back to the main road which leads to a thriving town of Ten Sleep (pop. 214) where you can find food, gas, lodging, camping and beer at Ten Sleep Brewing Co.

Section 7: Ten Sleep to Burgess Junction – 116 Miles

Fuel up for a long section, then ride east into Ten Sleep Canyon as it ascends into the Bighorn Mountains. The route leaves the pavement near the pass and enters Bighorn National Forest. These roads are rugged and will throw all sorts of obstacles at you. Pay attention to the tracks as they turn off Hyattville Road into Renner Wildlife Habitat Management Area (no fires, no camping). This route through state land can have deep sand and deep ruts, so take your time. You’ll also have to watch the GPX tracks as it’s easy to miss turns before getting back to Hyattville Rd.

After passing through Hyattville (pop. 97 and no services), we recommend doing the side trip to Medicine Lodge Archaeological Site to see the petroglyphs. Then begins another long ascent into the Bighorns. This twisty forest road leads to Medicine Lodge Lakes where you’ll find a couple campgrounds and Paintrock Lodge. The road quality improves after the lakes and you’ll ride roads that alternate between groves and prairies then open up to high elevation alpine hillsides.

After crossing Shell Creek you’ll come to another optional advanced section. This one is 22 miles long and follows tough roads over remote Woodchuck Pass (elev. 9,636 ft). The first part of this harder segment tests riders skills immediately. If the roads in this area are wet, they’ll be slippery and could be impassible. The alternative option is mostly paved en route to Highway 14. Section 7 ends at Bear Lodge Resort near Burgess Junction where you can get food, fuel and a room for the night.

Section 8: Burgess Junction to MT Border – 43.2 Miles

Get fuel at Bear Lodge and begin the last section which uses wide dirt roads north of Highway 14A. The first 15 miles follows Freeze Out Road (NF-15) as it meanders in and out of trees in Bighorn National Forest. Then you turn onto road 143 and begin five miles of doubletrack bliss that descends back to the highway.

After a few miles of pavement the track turns due north on an out-and-back adventure to a remote fence at the Wyoming-Montana border marking the end of the WYBDR. This high elevation 17-mile long road passes by Sheep and Duncum Mountains (both approx 9800 ft) and has grand views most of the way. 

Celebrate your accomplishment then ride back to Highway 14A the same way you rode in. Head back east for fuel in Burgess Junction, or west down the mountain to Lovell.

WYBDR LODGING

The Dixon Motel and Club is located 7 miles east of Baggs, WY on HWY 70. Our motel has single, double, triple, and quadruple rooms. Each room has a private bathroom, microwave, mini fridge, coffee pot, TV and free WIFI. Coin operated washers/dryers on site as well as 2 independent “trucker showers” for those that need to refresh. Dinners prepared with previous reservation at the Dixon Club, located across the street from the motel. You can enjoy an adult beverage while your food is prepared. Additionally, there is trailer parking for guests during your adventure.

Address: 216 Cottonwood Street Dixon, WY 82323
Phone: 307-383-2300

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The Boyer YL Ranch is located close to the start of the WYBDR in Savery, WY, and is the perfect lodging destination to kick off your WYBDR trip.  The ranch is owned by Jonathan “Jock” Boyer and his wife Kimberly Coats.  The property includes a variety of accommodations, from an historic barn loft and cozy wood cabins, to a 1972 John Wayne Bluebird bus.  Meals are available upon request.  Call for rate, or book directly.

Address:  34 County Road 754, Savery, Wyoming  82332

Phone: 307 383 7778

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Address: 110 North St, Baggs, WY 82321
Phone: (307) 383-7059

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Address: 210 Penland St #490, Baggs, WY 82321
Phone: (307) 383-2200

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Address: 411 1st St, Riverside, WY 82325
Phone: (307) 228-4773

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Address: 107 Riverside Ave, Riverside, WY 82325
Phone: (307) 327-5361

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Address: 205 Riverside Ave, Riverside, WY 82325
Phone: (307) 760-0017

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Address: 508 McCaffrey Ave, Encampment, WY 82325
Phone: (307) 327-5110

Address: 511 Hartvig St, Encampment, WY 82325
Phone: (307) 327-5683

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Address: 313 Shoshone Ave, Encampment, WY 82325
Phone: (307) 327-5753

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Address: 2758 WY-130, Centennial, WY 82055
Phone: (307) 742-6033

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Address: 3519 WY-130, Centennial, WY 82055
Phone: (307) 742-6042

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Address: 2747 WY-130, Centennial, WY 82055
Phone: (307) 742-3588

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Address: 2750 WY-130, Centennial, WY 82055
Phone: (307) 745-5918

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Address: 63 2nd St, Centennial, WY 82055
Phone: (308) 870-2871

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Address: 5651 WY-130, Saratoga, WY 82331
Phone: (307) 326-5928

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Address: 5556 Hwy 130 HC 63 Box, #8A, Saratoga, WY 82331
Phone: (800) 409-5439

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Address: 107 Main St, Elk Mountain, WY 82324
Phone: (307) 348-7778

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Address: 102 E Main St, Elk Mountain, WY 82324
Phone: (307) 348-7774

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Address: 404 Lincoln Hwy, Medicine Bow, WY 82329
Phone: (307) 379-2377

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Our four on-site vacation rentals, The Reef Cottages, feature big windows and big views overlooking Grey Reef. Each of our cottages have a single bedroom that houses two plush queen beds with an extra long twin bunk over one of the queen beds. A fourth guest sleeps on the futon in the living space. A tiled shower, full kitchen, a large patio with a grill and outside dining furniture as well as a flat screen TV culminate in a great vacation rental at the best possible location. Cottage guests are not required to fish at all, but we’d highly recommend it! If you prefer to grill your own steak and arrange your own logistics it doesn’t get any better than the cottages.

Address: 22222 Grey Reef Road, Alcova, WY 82620
Phone: 307.232.9128
Email: info@thereefflyshop.com

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Address: 22258 W, WY-220, Alcova, WY 82620
Phone: (307) 473-5829

Windy Waters RV Parks, located in Alcova, WY across the street from Sloane’s General Store, is the perfect mid-point of the WYBDR.  Whether you chose to make them home base between the North and South routes, or just a stopover along the way, they have a spot for you.  No camper? No problem they have (2) RV rentals set-up ready and waiting for you.

Address: 21500 Kortes Road – Alcova Park | 21600 Kortes Road – Eagle Creek Park
Phone: (307) 377 -7878

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Address: 21405 Kortes Rd, Alcova, WY 82620
Phone: (307) 234-2066

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Address: 290 S Pass Rd, Atlantic City, WY 82520
Phone: (307) 332-0248

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The Hyde Out is a small guest cabin located just off of Main Street in Atlantic City, Wyoming.  Constructed in 2013, there are 2 extra-long twin beds, a full bath (tub/shower combo), complete kitchen and small living/dining area.  A covered porch has great views of the historic town and is a fine place to enjoy a cold beer, a morning cup of coffee, or look at the night sky.  WiFi and a smart tv are provided, along with a bag of Epsom salts for those travel weary muscles.  The space has a private parking and entry area on the uphill side of the building.  The owner works in the pottery studio beneath the rental, and can stock the apartment with most requested items if given a week’s notice. The Hyde Out is listed on AirBnB, or you can book direct.

Address: 15 North Dexter Ave., Atlantic City, WY 82520
Phone: 307-330-7933

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Address: 288 Main St, Lander, WY 82520
Phone: (800) 710-6657

Address: 2415 Squaw Creek Rd, Lander, WY 82520
Phone: (307) 332-9655

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Address: 150 E Main St, Lander, WY 82520
Phone: (307) 332-3940

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Address: 1240 Main St, Lander, WY 82520
Phone: (307) 332-5189

Address: 605 W 2 St, Shoshoni, WY 82649
Phone: (307) 876-2273

Camping limit is 14 days.  The upper (east) portion of this area is closed each year from January 1 through May 31. The lower (west) portion is open all year.

Address: Renner, WY
Phone: (307) 527-7125

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Address: 3338 Hwy 16 E, Ten Sleep, WY 82442
Phone: (307) 366-2541

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Address: 4301 US-16, Ten Sleep, WY 82442
Phone: 307) 366-2424

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Address: 4700 US-16, Ten Sleep, WY 82442
Phone: (307) 366-2459

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Address: 4622 US-14, Dayton, WY 82836
Phone: (307) 461-4168

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Address: 3278 US-16, Ten Sleep, WY 82442
Phone: 307-366-2096

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Address: 98 2nd St, Ten Sleep, WY 82442
Phone: 307-366-2250

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Address: 414 2nd St, Ten Sleep, WY 82442
Phone: (307) 366-9911

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The “Base Camp Cabin on Main” offers a great location to access the western slope of the Bighorn Mountains. At the junction of all three BLM and Forest Service access roads (Alkali Road, Cold Springs Road & the Hyattville Logging Road) leading into the Bighorn Mountains the cabin offers a superb central point to begin or end miles and miles of “two-track” mountain roads. Approximately 17 miles north of Tensleep Wyoming on a gravel road you will find our cabin. Situated on main street, it is a short walk to the local watering hole to quinch a dusty thirst after a day on the trail. Please take a look at our listing, Base Camp Cabin on Main, Hyattville, WY on Airbnb or VRBO. We look forward to seeing you in Hyattville, the quiet gem of the Big Horn Basin.

Address: 315 Main Street, Hyattville, WY 82428
Phone: 307-272-7139
email: candcwyoming@yahoo.com

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Paintrock Inn is the first and only business as you enter Hyattville, WY. Our restaurant features delicious eats focussed around our own beef, grazed right in Hyattville. Tacos, Burgers, Steaks and Salads all made from scratch with local produce. We have gatorades and clif bars if you just need to refuel and get back on the route. With a few rooms available we can also provide lodging with nice hot showers and many beers to choose from.

Enjoy the full bar or just have a slice of homemade cake while you kick your feet up after the challenging first half of Section 7. We are the only true lodging option with beds, showers, food and a full bar between Ten Sleep and Burgess Junction. The Paintrock Inn was founded in 1903 and has been a favorite gathering place ever since.

Address: 319 Main St, Hyattville, WY 82428

Phone: 1(307)469-2335

Address: 6002 US-14, Dayton, WY 82836
Phone: (307) 683-0111

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Address: 5600 US-14 ALT, Dayton, WY 82836
Phone: (307) 752-2444

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WYBDR FOOD

The Dixon Motel and Club is located 7 miles east of Baggs, WY on HWY 70. Our motel has single, double, triple, and quadruple rooms. Each room has a private bathroom, microwave, mini fridge, coffee pot, TV and free WIFI. Coin operated washers/dryers on site as well as 2 independent “trucker showers” for those that need to refresh. Dinners prepared with previous reservation at the Dixon Club, located across the street from the motel. You can enjoy an adult beverage while your food is prepared. Additionally, there is trailer parking for guests during your adventure.

Address: 216 Cottonwood Street Dixon, WY 82323
Phone: 307-383-2300

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Address: 1460 Penland St, Baggs, WY 82321

Phone: (307) 383-6369

Address: 120 Riverside Ave, Riverside, WY 82325

Phone: (307) 327-5277

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Address: 108 Riverside Ave, Riverside, WY 82325

Phone: (307) 327-5117

Address: Mac Farlane Ave, Encampment, WY 82325

Phone: (307) 327-5025

Address: 520 McCaffrey Ave, Encampment, WY 82325

Phone: (307) 327-5064

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Address: 2768 WY-130, Centennial, WY 82055

Phone: (307) 742-2410

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Address: 2758 WY-130, Centennial, WY 82055

Phone: (307) 742-6033

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Address: 2747 WY-130, Centennial, WY 82055

Phone: (307) 223-6007

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Address: 2753 WY-130, Centennial, WY 82055

Phone: (307) 222-6750

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Small, family owned resaurant serving old school cooking, located in the middle of Elk Mountain. The Crossing Cafe only accepts cash to keep food costs down. Currently if you are vaccinated have proof with a vaccine card, or photo with you of your card, you may enter. If you wish not to become vaccinated we serve take-out. Please call ahead of arrival, if possible.

Address: 205 Bridge St, Elk Mountain, WY 82324

Phone: (307) 348-7478

Address: 604 Old Casper Medicine Bow Hwy, Medicine Bow, WY 82329

Phone: (307) 379-2547

Address: 24025 Lakeshore Dr, Alcova, WY 82620

Phone: (307) 472-6666

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Address: 21405 Kortes Rd, Alcova, WY 82620

Phone: (307) 234-2066

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Address: 22250 WY-220, Alcova, WY 82620

Phone: (307) 472-3200

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Gas station is a 24/7 pump. Grill is on from 7am to 9pm 7 days a week.
We have a breakfast menu to a dinner menu. Eggs, Hamburgers to Steaks. We even have cold beer, hot food. Come and take a break.

Address: 2297 Hwy 789 Jeffrey City, WY

Phone: (307)-544-2223

Address: 100 E Main St, Atlantic City, WY 82520

Phone: (307) 332-5143

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Address: 25 N Granier Ave, Atlantic City, WY 82520

Phone: (307) 332-0915

Address: 173 S Main St, Hudson, WY 82515

Phone: (307) 332-4516

Address: 109 S Main St, Hudson, WY 82515

Phone: (307) 332-2211

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Address: 217 S Main St, Hudson, WY 82515

Phone: (307) 332-7999

Address: 148 Main St, Lander, WY 82520

Phone: (307) 332-8227

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Address: 453 Main St, Lander, WY 82520

Phone: (307) 332-9298

Address: 132 S Main St, Hudson, WY 82515

Phone: (307) 240-1816

Address: 1 Golf Course Dr, Lander, WY 82520

Phone: (307) 332-4653

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Address: 126 Main St, Lander, WY 82520

Phone: (307) 332-8228

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Address: 129 Main St, Lander, WY 82520

Phone: (307) 438-4016

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Address: 1350 W Main St, Lander, WY 82520

Phone: (307) 332-6090

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Address: 351 Main St, Lander, WY 82520

Phone: (307) 335-5035

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Address: 170 E Main St, Lander, WY 82520

Phone: (307) 332-0233

Address: 637 Main St, Lander, WY 82520

Phone: (307) 332-3900

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Address: 140 N 7th St, Lander, WY 82520

Phone: (307) 206-1093

Address: 204 E 2 St, Shoshoni, WY 82649

Phone: (307) 876-2722

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Address: 304 2nd St, Ten Sleep, WY 82442

Phone: (307) 366-2161

Address: 109 2nd St, Ten Sleep, WY 82442

Phone: (307) 366-9222

Address: 201 2nd St, Ten Sleep, WY 82442

Phone: (307) 366-9999

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Address: 211 2nd St, Ten Sleep, WY 82442

Phone: (307) 366-2237

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Address: 125 2nd St, Ten Sleep, WY 82442

Phone: (307) 366-2171

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Address: 2549 US-16, Ten Sleep, WY 82442

Phone: (307) 366-2074

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A breakfast Cafe with some lunch specials, serving breakfast from 6am-2pm, everyday.  Suppers available on Tuesday and Friday nights from 5pm -8pm.

Address: 408 second street, Ten Sleep, WY

Phone: 307-366-2144

Now open, offering food and lodging coming soon.

Address: 319 Main St, Hyattville, WY 82428

Phone: (307)-469-2335

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Address: 4622 US-14, Dayton, WY 82836

Phone: (307) 461-4168

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Address: 6002 US-14, Dayton, WY 82836

Phone: (307) 683-0111

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Address: 5600 US-14 ALT, Dayton, WY 82836

Phone: (307) 752-2444

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WYBDR FUEL

Address: 1455 Penland St, Baggs, WY 82321

Phone: (307) 383-7700

Address: 303 S 1st St, Baggs, WY 82321

Phone: (307) 326-5638

Address: 210 WY-70, Encampment, WY 82325

Phone: (307) 327-5720

Address: 2758 WY-130, Centennial, WY 82055

Phone: (307) 742-6033

Address: I80 Exit 255, Elk Mountain, WY 82324

Phone: (307) 348-7359

Address: 604 Old Casper Medicine Bow Hwy, Medicine Bow, WY 82329

Phone: (307) 379-2547

Address: 21405 Kortes Rd, Alcova, WY 82620

Phone: (307) 234-2066

Address: 21405 Kortes Rd, Alcova, WY 82620

Phone: (307) 234-2066

Gas station is a 24/7 pump. Grill is on from 7am to 9pm 7 days a week.
We have a breakfast menu to a dinner menu. Eggs, Hamburgers to Steaks. We even have cold beer, hot food. Come and take a break.

Address: 2297 Hwy 789 Jeffrey City, WY

Phone: (307)-544-2223

Address: 8116 WY-789, Lander, WY 82520

Phone: (307) 332-4402

Address: 195 Main St, Lander, WY 82520

Phone: (307) 332-6216

Address: 135 E Main St, Lander, WY 82520

Phone: (307) 335-8191

Address: 1125 W Main St, Lander, WY 82520

Phone: (307) 332-3636

Address: 730 E Main St, Lander, WY 82520

Phone: (307) 335-5621

Address: 1315 Main St, Lander, WY 82520

Phone: (307) 332-7000

Address: 110 W 2 St, Shoshoni, WY 82649

Phone: (307) 876-2221

Address: 325 2nd St, Ten Sleep, WY 82442

Phone: (307) 366-2634

Address: 6002 US-14, Dayton, WY 82836

Phone: (307) 683-0111

WYBDR MOTORCYCLE DEALERSHIPS

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WYBDR 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

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Below are answers to some of the Frequently Asked Questions about the Wyoming Backcountry Discovery Route.

The Wyoming Backcountry Discovery Route is the eleventh route developed by the BDR organization for dual-sport and adventure motorcycle travel. Riders will test their endurance and skills on this epic 950-mile backcountry tour of Wyoming from Colorado to Montana. The tracks wind through five mountain ranges and explore vast high desert regions on dirt roads and epic double-track. Expect scenic views, endless forest roads under a canopy of trees, blissful double-track, rocky expert-only sections, and elevations that sometimes range between 9,000 and 11,000 feet. This route will throw many challenges at you so don’t try this route if you are new to adventure motorcycling.

The route consists of 8 sections and can be ridden in 7-8 days.

The best time to ride the WYBDR is mid-July to mid-September. We do not recommend riding the route before July 1st due to seasonal road closures in the national forest, and the impassible roads at higher elevations prior to July.
The WYBDR uses forest roads and backroads that typically open sometime in July depending on the size of the lingering snowpack. Depending on the autumn snowfall, the route can become unrideable sometime in September. The highest points are at the top of Bridger Peak and Kennaday Peak (both optional) which are around 11,000 feet tall and can only be reachable in the middle part of the riding season (e.g. August and a little before and after). The Snowy Range can also hold snow well into summer, but Highway 130 is typically cleared so you can get through.
Absolutely no riding the Beaver Rim section until after July 1st in order to allow the Greater Sage Grouse birds to hatch their chicks and minimize lasting impacts on them. Riders doing the WYBDR before July 1st will omit the Beaver Rim by riding the highway the whole way. That means connecting Alcova and Atlantic City using Highways 220 and 287 (riding Hudson-Atlantic City road is ok).

BDRs are generally designed for the average adventure rider on a fully-loaded adventure or dual-sport motorcycle. The WYBDR is suitable for riders with intermediate and above skill level.  You can expect to cover sections with deep ruts, loose rocks, sand, rocky hill climbs/descents and other challenges. There are some roads on the main route that are tough even for average riders especially on the Beaver Rim, in the Red Desert, and in the Bighorns.  Road conditions change from day to day in the Rocky Mountains, and Wyoming is no exception. If there has been an afternoon rainstorm, the roads in high desert regions will be impassible. The clay roads become slippery and the clay clings to tires creating dangerous conditions. Don’t “press on” if it starts raining. Turn back to better roads or stay put until the roads dry out. Always carry gear to wait out inclement weather should you be riding when the storms hit.  There also may be some deep puddles and water-crossings especially early in the season.

The expert sections on the WYBDR are quite difficult so do not attempt them if you are not a very experienced and competent rider. 

The Rocky Mountains are notorious for severe thunderstorms that seem to appear out of nowhere. Watch weather forecasts and even monitor weather radar maps, when possible, to see where rain might occur. If the high desert roads get wet, the clay surfaces will become unrideable. They become very slippery and will gum up your tires so bad that they will not roll. Do not attempt wet roads as your chances of getting stranded are high. Always carry a satellite tracking & communication device as cell phone reception is poor throughout the Wyoming backcountry. Be sure to check the interactive map at the top of this page for current conditions and use a reliable weather app on your phone during your ride. 

Yes. As with all the BDR routes, the WYBDR was designed for riding South to North, but it can absolutely be done North to South. The route ends at a remote place on the Montana border which is done as an out-and-back. Please be prepared for two-way traffic everywhere on this route and always remember to Ride Right to avoid head-on collisions around blind corners.

Most riders average 150 miles a day on a backcountry motorcycle trip. Give yourself 6-7 days to complete the entire route depending on your personal riding style. Keep in mind that you will face challenges along a route of this length – so work in at least one bumper day or even a rest day. Allow time to get back to your starting point after completing the route at the remote Montana state border.

There are no special permits or passes needed for normal groups of riders. On BLM lands like the Beaver Rim, permits are required for commercial activities like paid tours and for organized groups larger than 25 people. In the state-operated Renner Wildlife Management Area you can ride through without a pass, but camping and fires are not permitted. A small fee is charged to enter the historic part of South Pass City (which we highly recommend).

Designated public campgrounds can be found in the national forests and other places along this route. A few of the public campgrounds are identified on the WYBDR map as a small tent icon and are listed on the www.RideBDR.com/WYBDR page. Dispersed camping is also available throughout the route but be aware that each forest and land manager has their own guidelines so it’s advisable to check their websites. Camping is not allowed on state trust lands, including Renner Wildlife Area in section 7, except where there’s a designated campground. See our map above to see the brown shaded areas where the state doesn’t allow camping or fires or off-route vehicular travel.

In the national forest campgrounds campfires are allowed, but check with local Ranger Stations to determine if campfires are allowed before you build one. In most cases, campfires are only allowed in fire rings. State trust lands near Hyattville do not allow fires or dispersed camping. See our map above to see where the many state trust lands are located (brown shaded areas). 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 fires in Wyoming’s arid landscapes. 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.

On Wyoming state trust lands (see the brown areas on our map above) there is no camping, no open fires, and no vehicular travel off-established routes and roads. Note that the state can issue fines of up to $750 for travelers who break these rules. A good example of state trust lands would be some of the areas surrounding and in the vicinity of Renner WMA. In general, it’s safest for dispersed camping inside National Forests (consult their websites for limitations). Wyoming has so many state land properties along the WYBDR and it’s difficult to know when you are on them, on BLM land, or on private land. So outside of national forests we suggest only camping in designated campgrounds to avoid accidentally camping on state land. This page on the Wyoming state website has the rules & regulations, recreational use restrictions, and even a map viewer to find the state properties you’ll be passing through.

Never pass fuel. It’s one of the golden rules of adventure riding. The longest distance between gas stops on the WYBDR is between Alcova and Atlantic City (ask Wild Bill at Miner’s Delight for a gallon to get you to Lander if necessary). Wyoming is a vast remote state and the towns are very spaced out so top off the tank every time you can. Even if your bike’s range is way beyond the fuel stop distances, we recommend carrying extra fuel. 

The WYBDR is one of the most remote states in the union. Because of this fact, lodging opportunities are slim but there are some along the way. The WYBDR page lists many of the hotels, motels and lodges that you’ll pass by. We highly recommend that you plan properly and make reservations when possible. Carrying a minimum of “emergency” camping gear is important in Wyoming as lodging can be unavailable and you can also get stuck at any time due to wet backroads from afternoon rain squalls.

We highly recommend that to plan your adventure on the WYBDR, you use online lodging/travel aggregators in addition to the listing of lodging options on the WYBDR page and the WYBDR Butler Map.

This route cannot be ridden without the use of GPS tracks.  Be prepared and bring the WYBDR Butler Map AND your navigation device with the latest WYBDR GPS tracks loaded. Free GPS tracks are available for download on this site. The route can also be navigated using a smartphone GPS navigational app like Gaia, Rever and others. The WYBDR expedition documentary film is a great source of information about the route and is available via on-demand video platforms like Vimeo. 

Any GPS unit capable of handling 15 track logs with a minimum of 1500 points each is suitable for use on the WYBDR. Garmin models that work best for this application are: 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 navigational app, like Gaia GPS, but make sure you have the premium version of the app, so you can navigate via offline maps.

Cell phone service is very limited on this route so a satellite communication or tracking device is recommended for emergency situations. 

Any bike that has a license plate, can run knobby 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, if you are planning on doing the Expert sections, we recommend a mid-sized bike for this route unless you are very comfortable on a big bore bike in rough technical terrain.  Even very experienced riders on our team reported being challenged on larger bikes by some of the technical sections of the route during the filming expedition. Choose the bike that you are the most comfortable riding in challenging terrain and that you are not afraid to drop a few times.

DOT approved knobby tires are strongly recommended.  Riding this route without a least a 60/40 tire (60% dirt, 40% road) could be dangerous.

Segments of this route can be ridden two-up for those experienced in riding off-highway with a passenger and luggage. However, we strongly advise against riding the technical sections of this route two-up.

Please don’t go off the route anywhere where its gated or signed for seasonal or permanent closures, don’t venture onto private property, and don’t veer off the Beaver Rim track (in section 4) except right at the rim to see the views.

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.

Yes. There may be gates and/or barricades along the route. When you encounter 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, 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 due to wildfires, do not ride around the signs as that can put you or fire crews in danger and can get you a hefty fine. Check the BDR website for route updates before you go.

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.

Please abide by posted road closure signs. Ignoring these signs is a sure-fire way of getting a road closed for good. That said, sometimes locals will post unofficial “road closed” 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. 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.

We do our best to post the most up-to-date information about the route on ridebdr.com/WYBDR.  We depend on the BDR community to inform us about route and road conditions, so if you encounter any road closures or sever conditions that are worth reporting, please contact us with the information.

There is also a dedicated WYBDR 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: Wyoming Backcountry Discover Route (WYBDR).

Wyoming is a habitat for many animals like deer, antelope, moose and bear as well as smaller animals like coyote, porcupines, 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.

Antelope are known for wanting to race motorcycles, but don’t encourage them. 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 is 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 WYBDR are open to vehicles. If you do decide to drive this route you will want a 4×4 with high clearance as the route has deep puddles, large rocks, huge ruts and steep loose grades. Always stay to the right and go slow around blind corners to avoid head-on accidents with others using the roads. We recommend traveling south to north to minimize head-on traffic.

When we filmed the WYBDR documentary our support vehicle remained on major roads as much as possible. 

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 often get requests to provide the difficulty ratings of the BDR. We do not officially rate roads or routes because the difficulty can change from day to day depending on weather, changes in road conditions, and road damage caused by a variety of forces including wind, storms, flooding, snow, logging, forest fires and more.

The difficulty experienced by an individual also depends on their off-road skills, level of fitness, stamina, bike size and amount of weight carried on the bike. For these reasons we can’t provide a rating system like a ski resort or OHV park.

We can help you a bit by ranking the existing Backcountry Discovery Routes from most difficult to least difficult. Here is the list: CABDR-South, NEBDR, AZBDR, ORBDR, WYBDR, UTBDR, COBDR, NVBDR, WABDR, NMBDR, IDBDR, MABDR.

So CABDR-South is the most difficult especially if you ride the expert sections and MABDR is the easiest in general terms. Although MABDR is the easiest there are still a few challenging rocky sections and the several water crossings that can get very difficult if the water is high.

Be sure to also review the FAQ’s for each route and our General FAQs prior to embarking on your trip.

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