# Exploring the Backcountry Discovery Routes (BDR): America’s Gateway to Adventure
For outdoor enthusiasts and overlanding aficionados, the term “Backcountry Discovery Route” (BDR) resonates with the promise of adventure, solitude, and a deep connection with nature. A BDR is a network of mostly off-pavement routes designed specifically for dual-sport and adventure motorcycles, though many segments can be navigated by 4×4 vehicles as well. These routes are meticulously curated to showcase some of the most stunning, remote, and challenging terrains a region has to offer, while also providing opportunities to explore local cultures, histories, and ecosystems.
What is a Backcountry Discovery Route?
A Backcountry Discovery Route is a carefully planned trail that spans hundreds of miles through less-traveled paths across various states in the USA. Each BDR is developed with the intent of creating a scenic, historic, and culturally significant experience that traverses primarily unpaved roads. These routes often include difficult sections that test the skill and endurance of travelers but are balanced with breathtaking views and unique stops along the way. BDRs are not just about the ride or the drive; they are about the journey. They allow adventurers to immerse themselves in the environment, often requiring them to be self-sufficient and well-prepared for changing conditions and potential obstacles. The creation of these routes, often by non-profit organizations like the Backcountry Discovery Routes Organization, involves extensive research, collaboration with local communities, and a deep respect for the environment to ensure sustainable travel practices.Popular Backcountry Discovery Routes in the United States
Here are some of the most popular BDRs that span across the United States, each offering a unique glimpse into the diverse landscapes and heritage of the country:1. Washington Backcountry Discovery Route (WABDR)
- Stretching from Oregon to Canada, the WABDR is a 575-mile route that takes travelers through the Cascade Range. It features everything from dense forests and mountain passes to arid landscapes. Highlights include the stunning views from Bethel Ridge and the historic mining town of Liberty.
2. Colorado Backcountry Discovery Route (COBDR)
- The COBDR is a high-elevation adventure starting near the Four Corners and ending at the Wyoming border. This 675-mile journey traverses the Rocky Mountains, offering riders and drivers alpine scenery, ghost towns, and challenging mountain passes like Ophir Pass and Engineer Pass.
3. Utah Backcountry Discovery Route (UTBDR)
- Starting near the Arizona border and ending in Idaho, the UTBDR spans about 871 miles. It’s known for its diverse landscapes, including the red rock formations of Moab, the aspen forests of the Manti-La Sal National Forest, and the remote stretches of the Uinta Basin.
4. Arizona Backcountry Discovery Route (AZBDR)
- This 750-mile route runs from the Mexico border to Utah, winding through the iconic Sonoran Desert, the Mogollon Rim, and the historic towns of Tombstone and Globe. The AZBDR is a mix of desert heat, mountain cool, and everything in between.
5. California Backcountry Discovery Route (CABDR)
- The CABDR is the newest addition, offering a north-south traverse of Eastern California from Nevada to Mexico. This route includes the Sierra Nevada, Death Valley, and the Mojave Desert. Its varied terrain makes it a comprehensive test of endurance and adaptability.
6. Idaho Backcountry Discovery Route (IDBDR)
- Spanning from the Utah border to Canada, the IDBDR covers about 1,250 miles. It showcases the rugged beauty of the Rocky Mountains, the Salmon River’s whitewater, and the expansive landscapes of the Sawtooth Range.
7. New Mexico Backcountry Discovery Route (NMBDR)
- The NMBDR is a 1,200-mile journey that highlights the unique topography and culture of New Mexico. From the Chihuahuan Desert to the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, this route provides a taste of the state’s rich history and challenging terrain.
