Backcountry Discovery Routes has announced a new addition to its BDR‑X lineup: a 520‑mile backcountry loop encircling Hells Canyon, the deepest river gorge in North America. The new loop joins the growing BDR‑X network, offering riders a shorter, long‑weekend‑friendly option that still delivers the remote, scenic character of a full BDR.

Designed as a moderate route with optional advanced sections, the Hells Canyon BDR‑X gives riders a full circuit around the canyon using remote dirt roads, historic lookouts, and more than ten major viewpoints spread across both the Idaho and Oregon sides of the Snake River. 

The loop is built around dramatic geography, repeatedly dropping from high ridgelines into the river corridor and climbing back into mountain forests, with elevation changes exceeding 5,000 feet. Riders can expect constant transitions in terrain, climate, and temperature as the route moves through multiple altitude zones, offering a mix of canyon rims, steep descents, wooded climbs, and long stretches of isolated backcountry. 

BDR Co‑Founder Bryce Stevens describes Hells Canyon as a place that “never stops surprising you,” noting how the route’s rhythm shifts throughout the day as riders move between exposed canyon edges and shaded forest roads.

The new BDR‑X will officially launch on August 7, 2026, during the inaugural Yamaha Ténéré Trek Owner’s Rally at Tamarack Resort in Donnelly, Idaho. The premiere will be broadcast live on YouTube at 7:00 p.m. Mountain Time, where BDR will debut the expedition film and release the free GPS tracks and planning resources. Yamaha is offering 100 complimentary Friday‑evening passes for riders who want to attend only the BDR‑X premiere, while full rally registration includes three days of riding, training, seminars, demo rides, and vendor exhibits.

As with all BDR routes, riders will have access to free GPS tracks, digital planning tools, route descriptions, and the official Hells Canyon BDR‑X Motorcycle Map, which is available for pre‑order and provides section details, gas stops, elevation profiles, and seasonal considerations.

Photos by Backcountry Discovery Routes