Current Planning Status

Trip: Montana Backcountry Discovery Route
Direction: Northbound
Style: Motel-based
Estimated duration: Eleven (11) days are alloted for this trip. One (1) day for staging before the ride begins, eight (8) days for ridding, and two (2) days for contingency/buffer.
Minimum fuel range target: 170 miles
Current stage: Preliminary rider review and itinerary discussion

Trip overview - The Montana Backcountry Discovery Route

The MTBDR is BDR’s 23rd route and completes the final link in the Western BDR system, creating a continuous backcountry network across the western United States. The approximately 900-mile route begins in Island Park, Idaho, and travels north through Montana before ending near the U.S.–Canada border outside of Eureka.

Crossing more than thirteen mountain ranges, the MTBDR takes riders deep into Big Sky Country, weaving together alpine ridgelines, remote valleys, dense pine forests, historic mining towns, wide-open ranchlands, and rugged two-track roads. Highlights include the Gravelly Range, Ruby River Valley, Virginia City, Butte, and the wild landscapes of the East Pioneer, Highland, and Cabinet Mountains.

Blending scenic gravel, flowing forest roads, and optional harder sections for more experienced riders, the MTBDR offers an ideal balance of accessibility and challenge.

The route is best enjoyed between July and September, depending on snow levels and seasonal closures.