Wyoming Backcountry Discovery Route (WYBDR)

The WYBDR is Wyoming’s answer to long-distance adventure riding, stretching from the Colorado border to Montana through the state’s most isolated terrain. The route threads through the Sierra Madre Mountains, crosses the Great Divide Basin, and tackles sections of the original Oregon Trail before finishing in the Absaroka Range. Key waypoints include the ghost town of Encampment, the geothermal features near Saratoga Hot Springs, and a challenging climb over Togwotee Pass. Expect everything from high desert sage flats to alpine meadows above 10,000 feet.

This is a serious commitment requiring expedition-level preparation—some sections go 100+ miles without services or cell coverage. A capable 4WD with auxiliary fuel, recovery gear, and camping supplies is mandatory. The northern sections are snow-free from late June through September, but southern desert portions can run year-round. Plan for 4-7 days depending on your pace and weather delays. This isn’t just a drive; it’s a complete immersion in Wyoming’s backcountry culture and landscape.