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Planning a BDR (Backcountry Discovery Route) trip is exciting—map spreads, GPX files, packing lists, daydreaming about remote stretches of dirt and river crossings.
But here’s the truth: overplanning can kill the adventure.
If you’ve ever tried to ride an over-scheduled route only to get derailed by weather, a mechanical, or an epic trail you didn’t want to rush… you know what we’re talking about.
Here’s how to plan smart without sucking the spontaneity out of your trip.
Pick a Route—Then Break It Into Chunks
Start with the big picture: which BDR are you riding? Once that’s locked in, divide it into logical sections or legs, usually based on towns, fuel stops, or known landmarks.
Don’t obsess over exact mileage each day. Instead, ask:
- Where’s the next fuel stop?
- Where can I camp or sleep if things take longer?
- Are there “bail-out” points if weather or fatigue hits?
Give yourself flex days in case something comes up (because something always does).
Don’t Try to Ride Every Single Mile (Gasp!)
BDRs aren’t sacred trails—they’re suggestions. You’re allowed to skip boring sections, reroute around wildfire closures, or spend extra time in a town with cold beer and hot showers.
You don’t get a medal for completing every mile. You get a better experience if you let yourself adjust along the way.
Pro tip: If the weather sucks or your crew is beat, slab it for a day. You can always hop back on the dirt the next morning, no shame involved.
Check it out: OFF ROAD ADVENTURE MOTORCYCLE TRAINING
Load the GPX… But Don’t Stare at It All Day
Having the track loaded into your GPS or phone is crucial. But don’t become a slave to the purple line. If a side road looks fun, or locals suggest a detour, go for it.
Riding blindly just to “stay on route” is a good way to miss out on epic side trails, cool campsites, or those little diner towns that end up being the best part of the trip.
Bring a paper map too. You never know when a GPS glitch or dead battery will leave you flying blind.
Focus on Key Essentials—Not a Minute-by-Minute Itinerary
Here’s what you actually need dialed in:
- Fuel stops (especially in the West—some are 150+ miles apart)
- Water supply and filtering plan
- Basic resupply towns every 2–3 days
- A “trouble day” plan if someone gets hurt, sick, or the bike breaks
What you don’t need: reservations at every stop, detailed timelines, or pre-selected campgrounds down to the mile marker. Stay flexible and let the trip evolve.
Check it out all our OFF ROAD ADVENTURE MOTORCYCLE TOURS
Communicate With Your Crew (Then Be Ready to Adapt Anyway)
Riding with others? Set expectations ahead of time.
- How many hours do you want to ride each day?
- Are people OK with primitive camping, or is someone hoping for motels?
- Who’s carrying what tools, gear, or spares?
Get on the same page before you’re ten miles into a sand wash with mismatched plans. But even then—stuff changes. Be ready to pivot and adjust without friction.
Wrap-Up: Let the Ride Happen
The BDR routes are a gift—but they’re also a framework, not a script. If you plan just enough to be safe and confident, the rest will fall into place on the trail.
So make a rough plan. Load the route. Check your gear. Then let go of the checklist and lean into the ride.
You’re not out there to stay on schedule—you’re out there to chase whatever the road throws at you.
Check out our tips for riding the WABDR.
Check out all the BDR routes here.
