Big Bend, here we come. Backcountry Discovery Routes (BDR) added their sixth BDR-X to an already impressive list of routes. Coming just a few weeks after their lush green Chattahoochee route, this one explores the dry desert of southwest Texas. And like everything in Texas, it’s big. The loop route is 618 miles long broken into five segments, each of which can be ridden in a day. And while it touches towns like Terlingua and Alpine, much of the route is in the very wide open spaces. The BDR track also transits parts of Big Bend National Park and Big Bend Ranch State Park, both of which are fee areas.
Beginning
The official start and finish is Alpine, Texas, and the first day takes riders into Big Bend National Park. It also provides the first chance for them to test their mettle on a 29-mile alternate section. The challenges along Old Ore Road are “rugged desert terrain, including rocky climbs, off-camber turns, switchbacks, and sand.” And there’s no way to get out except to finish it. Quite a first day, if you’re up to it.
Things don’t get much easier on the second Big Bend day once riders commit to River Road, a 52-mile stretch of “primitive dirt” with no outs or services. Not hard enough? Point that front wheel towards the optional Black Gap route, where a ramp of stacked rocks is the only track through the gap. This comes after negotiating “deep ruts, steep descents, rough ledges,” and other rock pile hazards.
Middle
Day 3 looks to be a little easier, though riders will still find rough roads and sand along the way. A nice stretch along the Rio Grande changes the scenery, and there is an option to tour Big Bend Ranch State Park as a side trip. On Day 4 the riding becomes more serious, with many miles of two-track desert roads along the Rio Grande. Then the monster appears: Godzilla Hill. Tough to climb, tricky to descend and a no-go when wet, it’s a beast. Much of the day is very remote so keep that inReach powered up.
End
What’s that? The bike isn’t vibrating, there aren’t any bumps or dust, traction is excellent. It must be…pavement! Yes, smooth, twisty pavement as far as Alpine, a derriere’s delight to finish a sometimes grueling ride.
Enough reading, let’s watch the movie!
Look good? The BDR website has all the information you’ll need to prepare for and ride Big Bend. That includes suggested packing lists, GPX tracks, scenic stops, and food and fuel locations.
Read More: Women’s Rider Training, Chattahoochee BDR-X
Images: Backcountry Discovery Routes
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