When you think of Backcountry Discovery Routes (BDR), you probably picture motorcycles carving across rugged dirt roads and high mountain passes. That’s how it all started—an organization dedicated to creating and preserving off-pavement adventure routes for ADV motorcyclists.
But here’s the secret: the BDR network isn’t just for two wheels. Much of it is perfectly suited for 4×4 overlanding rigs—from stock Jeep Gladiators to fully kitted expedition trucks. If you’re looking for pre-planned, tested, and mapped long-distance backcountry routes, BDR is one of the best resources out there.
What is BDR?
BDR is a nonprofit organization that designs cross-state backcountry routes made up of forest service roads, dirt tracks, and scenic byways. Each route connects remote towns, fuel stops, and camp opportunities, giving riders (and now overlanders) a safe and organized way to explore America’s wild spaces.
Every BDR release includes:
- Free downloadable GPX tracks
- Route maps (print and digital)
- Film & documentation showing terrain and highlights
- Community updates on closures, reroutes, and conditions
Currently, BDR offers 12 official routes across the U.S., with more in development.
Why BDR Routes Work for Overlanding
Even though BDR designs routes with motorcycles in mind, most of their tracks use public forest service roads, gravel connectors, and two-track trails—the exact terrain Jeep owners crave.
For overlanders, this means:
- Route Confidence – Someone already mapped the connections, tested fuel range, and scouted campsites.
- Vehicle-Safe Terrain – While some ADV “expert sections” are too narrow or gnarly for 4x4s, 80–90% of the routes are Jeep-ready.
- Expedition Style – Each BDR is a multi-day journey with built-in opportunities for resupply, camping, and scenic detours.
- Community Support – Active forums and ride reports help you plan before you commit.
4×4-Ready Examples
- MABDR (Mid-Atlantic BDR): Runs right through Virginia, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania. A perfect mix of gravel forest roads and historic backroads—great for Gladiators and Wranglers.
- COBDR (Colorado BDR): Mountain passes, alpine lakes, and jeep trails. Some sections are seasonal (snow closures), but the bulk is 4×4 heaven.
- UTBDR (Utah BDR): Canyon country, desert tracks, and slickrock—similar terrain to Moab, but stretched across the state.
- AZBDR (Arizona BDR): Sonoran desert to the Mogollon Rim, this one transitions from red rock to pine forests.
Pro tip: when BDR calls a segment an “expert-only” motorcycle section, check twice. Those often mean tight switchbacks, single-track width, or steep loose climbs that are not 4×4 friendly. But you can usually bypass those sections with alternate tracks included in the GPX file.
How to Use BDR for Overlanding
- Download the GPX file from ridebdr.com.
- Load it into Gaia GPS, onX, or your nav system.
- Study resupply points. Gas stations are marked for bikes, but they’re critical for 4x4s too.
- Plan campsites. Dispersed camping is usually available along the way. BDR films often highlight the best spots.
- Prep for conditions. Snow, mud, and washouts can shift difficulty overnight.
Why we Should Care
For Jeep and overland communities, BDR is like having a national catalog of pre-built expeditions. Instead of spending weeks plotting routes from scratch, you can tap into a trusted system designed to maximize backcountry exploration while staying legal and connected.
And since BDR is a nonprofit, supporting their work helps keep these trails documented, protected, and open to the public. Buying a map, donating, or sharing your overland trip report helps ensure the network keeps expanding.
Final Thoughts
If you’re planning your next Jeep adventure—whether it’s crossing Virginia on the MABDR or tackling high passes on the COBDR—the Backcountry Discovery Routes network is a resource you don’t want to ignore.
It’s built for bikes. It works beautifully for 4×4 overlanding.
Download the tracks, prep your rig, and take on a route that’s been vetted by explorers who live for the backcountry.
Remember to Tread Lightly.
Gladiator Up! – Doug
👉 Read “The 7 Best BDR Routes for Jeep & 4×4 Overlanders“