Backcountry Discovery Routes (BDR) has dropped the official trailer for its next major release: the Montana Backcountry Discovery Route (MTBDR). This new addition marks the organization’s 23rd route and completes the final link in the Western BDR system, creating a continuous backcountry corridor stretching across the western United States.

The approximately 900‑mile track begins in Island Park, Idaho, and winds north through some of Montana’s most remote and iconic landscapes before reaching the U.S.–Canada border near Eureka. With more than thirteen mountain ranges on the itinerary, the MTBDR promises a deep dive into Big Sky Country’s rugged terrain and wide‑open spaces.

As with most BDR projects, the MTBDR is the result of extensive scouting, route refinement, and collaboration with local land managers. The route stitches together a diverse mix of alpine ridgelines, secluded valleys, dense pine forests, historic mining towns, and sprawling ranchlands. Riders can expect a blend of scenic gravel, flowing forest roads, and rugged two‑track, with optional advanced sections for those seeking a more technical challenge.

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

Among the standout segments are:

• The Gravelly Range, offering sweeping high‑country views
• The Ruby River Valley, with its blend of ranchland and river‑cut terrain
• Virginia City, one of the West’s most storied mining towns
• Butte, a cultural and geological landmark
• The wild backcountry of the East Pioneer, Highland, and Cabinet Mountains

“This route has been one of the most anticipated projects we’ve ever worked on,” says MTBDR Co‑Architect and BDR Routes Development Director Bryce Stevens. “It delivers on every level, with big landscapes, remote riding, historic towns, and a true sense of exploration.”

Film And Route Release

The world film premiere and official route release are set for Saturday, February 7, 2026, at the historic Ellen Theatre in Bozeman, Montana, where members of the BDR team, route architects, and industry partners will be on hand to celebrate the launch. Tickets for the premiere are available here.

For those planning their own Montana adventure, all of the essential planning tools will drop the same day. Free GPS tracks, digital maps, FAQs, and travel resources go live at 12:00 PM Pacific on February 7th at RideBDR.com, giving riders everything they need to start mapping out their trip. The waterproof MTBDR Motorcycle Map will also be available for purchase through the BDR Online Store for those who prefer a durable, tank‑bag‑ready companion on the trail.

Photos by Backcountry Discovery Routes