Ozarks Arkansas BDR-X
A 480-mile backcountry adventure route through the Ozark–St. Francis National Forest in northwest Arkansas. Riders experience dense forests, pristine rivers, towering rock cliffs, and scenic twisty pavement — with 8 optional advanced sections, the most of any BDR route to date.
Interactive Route Map
Overview
The Ozarks BDR-X is a 480-mile backcountry adventure route through the Ozark–St. Francis National Forest in northwest Arkansas. Carefully designed for adventure and dual-sport riders, this highly anticipated route features flowing dirt roads, primitive two-track, dozens of water crossings, and 8 optional advanced sections — the most of any BDR route to date.
Sections
Section 1: Jasper to Deer — 91 miles
Enjoy a cozy stay in the quaint town of Jasper, nestled along the Buffalo National River, America's first designated free-flowing, undammed river, before embarking on this incredible adventure. The route hits fun primitive dirt roads dropping steadily to the valley below where, if the water level allows, you can cross a concrete low bridge at the Buffalo River to access the historic Parker-Hickman farmstead.
Section 2: Deer to Mountainburg — 130 miles
Advanced riders can tackle the first ALT Harder section, reconnecting with the main route along the majestic Big Piney Creek. This stretch features ruts, rocks, creek crossings, and the potential for mud, along with great dispersed camping options.
Section 3: Mountainburg to Oark — 103 miles
Departing Mountainburg, the main route climbs via pristine twisty pavement, connecting to flowy dirt roads as you cruise along Hurricane Creek Rd. White Rock is a must-see, featuring cabins, camping, and spectacular views with a nice general store (day use fee required).
Section 4: Oark to Jasper — 157 miles
The fun continues through a highlight section featuring primitive, rocky, and rustic forest roads with numerous creek crossings. Riders can stop at Red Lick for fuel and supplies, while an ALT Harder section awaits near the impressive Strawberry Bluffs viewpoint. The final stretch follows twisty gravel roads to Pilot Knob.
Key Facts
- Total Distance: 480 miles
- Sections: 4 main sections
- Advanced Options: 8 optional harder sections (most of any BDR route)
- Terrain: Dirt roads, primitive two-track, water crossings, twisty pavement
- Start/End: Jasper, AR (loop route)
- Forest: Ozark–St. Francis National Forest
Tips
- Best ridden spring through fall; avoid after heavy rain
- Fuel range: plan for up to 100 miles between stops
- Cell service is limited throughout — download offline maps
- GPS track available free at ridebdr.com/ozarks-bdr-x
- Ideal bikes: adventure and dual-sport (650cc+)
- Can be ridden in either direction