• Introduction

In ADVMoto Live! #9, host Carl Parker welcomes Paul Guillien, Inna Thorn, and Tim James from Backcountry Discovery Routes (BDR) for an in-depth discussion on one of America’s most influential adventure riding organizations. For over a decade, BDR has created free, community-driven off-road routes spanning the United States — empowering riders to explore responsibly while preserving access to public lands. From the group’s grassroots beginnings to its growing national impact, this episode celebrates ten years, ten routes, and a shared mission to make adventure accessible to everyone.

• Episode Summary

BDR’s story began with a simple goal: create cross-state, off-road routes for adventure motorcyclists to enjoy safely and sustainably. Today, those routes cover more than 10,000 miles across the U.S., connecting communities, riders, and conservationists alike. Paul, Inna, and Tim share insights on route creation, maintenance, and community engagement — and how a volunteer-powered team has turned a passion project into a national movement.

• Origins and Mission: From the early Washington route to a coast-to-coast network, BDR’s mission remains “by the community, for the community.”
• Economic Impact: A 2017 study showed BDR riders generated over $17 million in out-of-state tourism revenue across seven states.
• Preservation through Access: By encouraging responsible riding, BDR helps keep remote public roads open and maintained for future generations.
• Route Development: Each route takes roughly two years to plan, relying on local experts, GPS mapping, and extensive field testing.
• Ride Respectfully: Their “Ride Respectfully” campaign promotes etiquette and awareness when riding near homes and sensitive areas.
• Volunteer Power: Hundreds of ambassadors, sponsors, and community riders contribute time, funding, and updates that keep routes alive and current.

From Utah’s red canyons to the pine forests of Washington and the Appalachian backroads of the East Coast, each BDR route tells a story of adventure, collaboration, and discovery — proving that exploration starts right here at home.

• Highlighted Quotes

“We wanted routes by the community, for the community — and that hasn’t changed.” — Paul Guillien

“BDR is like raising ten kids — they need care, attention, and love every year.” — Inna Thorn

“Slow down, wave, and respect locals — it’s how we keep access open for everyone.” — Tim James

“Adventure isn’t just overseas. It starts in your own backyard.” — Carl Parker

• Support & Follow-Up

Discover all official routes, GPS downloads, and riding resources at RideBDR.com. Join BDR’s mission by donating, becoming an ambassador, or participating in the annual KTM bike sweepstakes. For related interviews and adventure features, visit AdventureMotorcycle.com.

• About ADVMoto Live!

ADVMoto Live! is an original adventure and dual-sport podcast for riders who live and breathe the long way around. Hosted by Carl Parker, the show features explorers, builders, and dreamers whose stories inspire and define the adventure motorcycling community.