IRR-OBDR FAQ FOR SOUTH CENTRAL OREGON
Below are answers to some Frequently Asked Questions about this Out Back Discovery Route.
What is the SOUTH CENTRAL OREGON OBDR?
The SOUTH CENTRAL OREGON Out Back Discovery Route is mostly off-road route from Jacksonville, Oregon to The Northern most part of the Great Basin in South Central Oregon. The Southwest to East route winds through the High Desert of Central Oregon into the Eastern mountains called the Steens and North through the Silvies into the Ochoco Mountain Range. The route includes gravel, and pavement surfaces and may include a few rocks, light ruts, mud and sometimes snow depending on time of year and conditions. The route can be completed in 6 to 7 days depending on pace, and is also accessible by high clearance vehicles, as the entire route is at least gravel roads.
How far between gas stops?
The longest gap between gas stations is approximately 175 miles.
Can I build a campfire?
In most cases campfires are allowed, but check with local Ranger Stations to determine if campfires are allowed before you build one. Forest fires are a threat during parts of the year and the rules that manage this risk must be followed. Be sure to fully extinguish fires so they are DEAD-OUT. Use water to ensure a fire is fully extinguished and the ground is left cool and wet.
Is there water on the route?
There are on occasions, pump water in some improved campsites. It is recommended that you carry at least a gallon of water with you at all times and replenish your supply when available at fuel stops. There are natural water sources along this route and depending on the snow pack most are running. You can always find potable water in the towns along the way. It is suggested that plenty of water is carried for personal and cooking use. Take twice as much as you think you will need, because you will need it. Here is a video on water filtration filmed in the Oregon Backcountry: http://youtu.be/vqOFZAoZdTU . We highly also recommend water purification systems.
Do I have to camp?
No, you can complete the SOUTH CENTRAL OREGON OBDR using motels and restaurants fairly easily. However, The majority of IRR trips are designed as camp trips to keep costs minimal and dry meals are prepared in camp.
Where do I camp?
There are many campgrounds and suitable dry camping locations along the route. Butler Motorcycle Maps have a tent icon showing campgrounds on the many routes along with many near the route. The Butler Maps are available at www.touratech-usa.com or www.butlermaps.com. IRR will also frequent ALLSTAYS.com where a wealth of information abounds.
Why do I need paper maps when I have GPS tracks?
Always bring a complete set of maps for the area you plan to ride. They have good information about roads, water sources, and are an indispensable resource when the GPS doesn't work, or is giving questionable advice. Unplanned events can occur and having paper/synthetic maps of the area can be a lifesaver. National Forest maps are available at the US Forest Service website and local Ranger Stations.Butler Motorcycle Maps are available at www.touratech-usa.com or www.butlermaps.com.
What GPS should I use?
Any GPS unit capable of displaying 10 track logs with a minimum of 500 points each is suitable for use on just about any trip. However IRR has had a great deal of success with Garmin Zumo models and the Montana Model for this application are: Zumo 665/660, Montana, GPSMap 60, 62, 76, 78 and 276. Other GPS manufacturers may have units that will work. Check the technical specs to determine suitability. The cost of a good GPS is typically a spendy proposition. IRR recommends the use of REVER Maps along with is phone applications for those on a budget.
What time of year can I do the SOUTH CENTRAL OREGON OBDR?
The SOUTH CENTRAL OREGON OBDR is best from May-October depending on early snow storms and weather. The route can be done in May and June, but snowpack in the high mtns may keep you from doing the entire route as mapped. IRR Typically does this as their first ride of the season during the 3rd and 4th weeks of May and several times throughout the ride season. September is an exceptional choice if Fall colors are desirable.
What is the ideal bike to use?
Any bike that has a license plate, can run 50/50 tires and is set-up to carry the gear you plan to bring, and has the fuel range to make the distance between gas stops. Most adventure or dual sport motorcycles will be suitable for the trip. Choose the bike that you are the most comfortable riding in desert and mountain terrain. The trip can also offer alternatives for more street oriented bikes.
How difficult is the route?
The SOUTH CENTRAL OREGON OBDR route is designed to be ridden on adventure motorcycles. There are no single-track style trails on this route. Many of the roads are in remote areas and reach high elevation areas where road maintenance is minimal. You can expect to cover sections of road with some ruts, loose rocks, and other challenges. Road conditions change from week to week based on the recent weather. When you see signs that read, “Roads maybe impassable when wet”, use caution, roads become very slick and can be impassable. You may also encounter sections that have trees or branches over the road. There are alternate "easier" routes around a few of the most challenging sections.
What tires should I use for the SOUTH CENTRAL OREGON OBDR?
DOT approved knobby tires are strongly recommended. Our team members used either Shinko Cross-Fly. Continental TKC 80, Mefo Super Explorer or Dunlop 606 tires when we rode the route but a minimum of 50/50 on-off road tires are recomended.
How long does it take to run the SOUTH CENTRAL OREGON OBDR?
Most people average 150 miles a day on a backcountry motorcycle trip. Plan on doing this route in 6-7 days depending on how fast you want to travel and how early you want to roll out of camp.
Is there cell phone coverage on the route?
Much of this route is remote and out of reach for cell phone towers. There will be long sections with no coverage. Your best bet to talk or text is in the towns or on top of mountains.We have had cell service in the Steens. You will be surprised where you get coverage and where you don't. A satellite communication device is a good idea in the backcountry.
What is the highest elevation on the SOUTH CENTRAL OREGON OBDR?
The highest elevations are reached in The Steens Mountain Loop section where it reaches 8,450 feet. The route starts near 1700 ft in Medford and the average elevation along he route is 4,100 to 4,500 feet.
What Skill level is required for this trip?
Here are some key things to consider as you put together your plan.
All of the OBDR routes include entry level, intermediate, and advanced terrain. However, routes that are in the advanced category are pre-scheduled for experienced riders only and are not part of the tour packages represented at IRR. Every ride that we post on our website are doable for entry and intermediate level riders.
It is always recommended that you do some shorter overnight trips as practice and to incorporate increasingly difficult terrain to build up your skills and confidence. Also remember that riding with a fully-loaded bike should be practiced prior to tackling a OBDR. Lastly, always ride with a group so that you have a team to help overcome any obstacles whether it’s terrain, mechanicals, navigation, medical emergency, etc…
In summary, take baby steps and work up to doing a OBDR. If it is your first time to do the back country off road then don’t make it your first adventure motorcycle outing on a full-sized twin-cylinder bike before consulting IRR of your abilities and the characteristics of the trip. We try to design these trips for everyone to participate in.
What medical supplies should I carry on a SOUTH CENTRAL OREGON OBDR trip?
It is recommended that you carry items for wound management, breaks, basic meds and dental. You can buy a good first aid kit at one of the outdoor stores online or Touratech-USA. Get one that is an Extended Day Backpacker or 3-4 person kit. These kits usually have the basics for a motorcycle trip.
They usually don't have a SAM splint, so pick one of those up along with a couple ace bandages. One other thing that we do for every multi-day trip, is to gather important information about each rider: allergies, medications, medical issues, emergency contacts, etc.
Then we put that on a master sheet for each person, so if something does happen we have that information handy incase that person can't speak. Another good practice is to do a little research of where medical facilities are along your planned route. Is there a "flight for life" in the area? Where are the hospitals, Medical clinics, etc?
Here is a list of some items that you should have in your medical kit:
What is the SOUTH CENTRAL OREGON OBDR?
The SOUTH CENTRAL OREGON Out Back Discovery Route is mostly off-road route from Jacksonville, Oregon to The Northern most part of the Great Basin in South Central Oregon. The Southwest to East route winds through the High Desert of Central Oregon into the Eastern mountains called the Steens and North through the Silvies into the Ochoco Mountain Range. The route includes gravel, and pavement surfaces and may include a few rocks, light ruts, mud and sometimes snow depending on time of year and conditions. The route can be completed in 6 to 7 days depending on pace, and is also accessible by high clearance vehicles, as the entire route is at least gravel roads.
How far between gas stops?
The longest gap between gas stations is approximately 175 miles.
Can I build a campfire?
In most cases campfires are allowed, but check with local Ranger Stations to determine if campfires are allowed before you build one. Forest fires are a threat during parts of the year and the rules that manage this risk must be followed. Be sure to fully extinguish fires so they are DEAD-OUT. Use water to ensure a fire is fully extinguished and the ground is left cool and wet.
Is there water on the route?
There are on occasions, pump water in some improved campsites. It is recommended that you carry at least a gallon of water with you at all times and replenish your supply when available at fuel stops. There are natural water sources along this route and depending on the snow pack most are running. You can always find potable water in the towns along the way. It is suggested that plenty of water is carried for personal and cooking use. Take twice as much as you think you will need, because you will need it. Here is a video on water filtration filmed in the Oregon Backcountry: http://youtu.be/vqOFZAoZdTU . We highly also recommend water purification systems.
Do I have to camp?
No, you can complete the SOUTH CENTRAL OREGON OBDR using motels and restaurants fairly easily. However, The majority of IRR trips are designed as camp trips to keep costs minimal and dry meals are prepared in camp.
Where do I camp?
There are many campgrounds and suitable dry camping locations along the route. Butler Motorcycle Maps have a tent icon showing campgrounds on the many routes along with many near the route. The Butler Maps are available at www.touratech-usa.com or www.butlermaps.com. IRR will also frequent ALLSTAYS.com where a wealth of information abounds.
Why do I need paper maps when I have GPS tracks?
Always bring a complete set of maps for the area you plan to ride. They have good information about roads, water sources, and are an indispensable resource when the GPS doesn't work, or is giving questionable advice. Unplanned events can occur and having paper/synthetic maps of the area can be a lifesaver. National Forest maps are available at the US Forest Service website and local Ranger Stations.Butler Motorcycle Maps are available at www.touratech-usa.com or www.butlermaps.com.
What GPS should I use?
Any GPS unit capable of displaying 10 track logs with a minimum of 500 points each is suitable for use on just about any trip. However IRR has had a great deal of success with Garmin Zumo models and the Montana Model for this application are: Zumo 665/660, Montana, GPSMap 60, 62, 76, 78 and 276. Other GPS manufacturers may have units that will work. Check the technical specs to determine suitability. The cost of a good GPS is typically a spendy proposition. IRR recommends the use of REVER Maps along with is phone applications for those on a budget.
What time of year can I do the SOUTH CENTRAL OREGON OBDR?
The SOUTH CENTRAL OREGON OBDR is best from May-October depending on early snow storms and weather. The route can be done in May and June, but snowpack in the high mtns may keep you from doing the entire route as mapped. IRR Typically does this as their first ride of the season during the 3rd and 4th weeks of May and several times throughout the ride season. September is an exceptional choice if Fall colors are desirable.
What is the ideal bike to use?
Any bike that has a license plate, can run 50/50 tires and is set-up to carry the gear you plan to bring, and has the fuel range to make the distance between gas stops. Most adventure or dual sport motorcycles will be suitable for the trip. Choose the bike that you are the most comfortable riding in desert and mountain terrain. The trip can also offer alternatives for more street oriented bikes.
How difficult is the route?
The SOUTH CENTRAL OREGON OBDR route is designed to be ridden on adventure motorcycles. There are no single-track style trails on this route. Many of the roads are in remote areas and reach high elevation areas where road maintenance is minimal. You can expect to cover sections of road with some ruts, loose rocks, and other challenges. Road conditions change from week to week based on the recent weather. When you see signs that read, “Roads maybe impassable when wet”, use caution, roads become very slick and can be impassable. You may also encounter sections that have trees or branches over the road. There are alternate "easier" routes around a few of the most challenging sections.
What tires should I use for the SOUTH CENTRAL OREGON OBDR?
DOT approved knobby tires are strongly recommended. Our team members used either Shinko Cross-Fly. Continental TKC 80, Mefo Super Explorer or Dunlop 606 tires when we rode the route but a minimum of 50/50 on-off road tires are recomended.
How long does it take to run the SOUTH CENTRAL OREGON OBDR?
Most people average 150 miles a day on a backcountry motorcycle trip. Plan on doing this route in 6-7 days depending on how fast you want to travel and how early you want to roll out of camp.
Is there cell phone coverage on the route?
Much of this route is remote and out of reach for cell phone towers. There will be long sections with no coverage. Your best bet to talk or text is in the towns or on top of mountains.We have had cell service in the Steens. You will be surprised where you get coverage and where you don't. A satellite communication device is a good idea in the backcountry.
What is the highest elevation on the SOUTH CENTRAL OREGON OBDR?
The highest elevations are reached in The Steens Mountain Loop section where it reaches 8,450 feet. The route starts near 1700 ft in Medford and the average elevation along he route is 4,100 to 4,500 feet.
What Skill level is required for this trip?
Here are some key things to consider as you put together your plan.
All of the OBDR routes include entry level, intermediate, and advanced terrain. However, routes that are in the advanced category are pre-scheduled for experienced riders only and are not part of the tour packages represented at IRR. Every ride that we post on our website are doable for entry and intermediate level riders.
It is always recommended that you do some shorter overnight trips as practice and to incorporate increasingly difficult terrain to build up your skills and confidence. Also remember that riding with a fully-loaded bike should be practiced prior to tackling a OBDR. Lastly, always ride with a group so that you have a team to help overcome any obstacles whether it’s terrain, mechanicals, navigation, medical emergency, etc…
In summary, take baby steps and work up to doing a OBDR. If it is your first time to do the back country off road then don’t make it your first adventure motorcycle outing on a full-sized twin-cylinder bike before consulting IRR of your abilities and the characteristics of the trip. We try to design these trips for everyone to participate in.
What medical supplies should I carry on a SOUTH CENTRAL OREGON OBDR trip?
It is recommended that you carry items for wound management, breaks, basic meds and dental. You can buy a good first aid kit at one of the outdoor stores online or Touratech-USA. Get one that is an Extended Day Backpacker or 3-4 person kit. These kits usually have the basics for a motorcycle trip.
They usually don't have a SAM splint, so pick one of those up along with a couple ace bandages. One other thing that we do for every multi-day trip, is to gather important information about each rider: allergies, medications, medical issues, emergency contacts, etc.
Then we put that on a master sheet for each person, so if something does happen we have that information handy incase that person can't speak. Another good practice is to do a little research of where medical facilities are along your planned route. Is there a "flight for life" in the area? Where are the hospitals, Medical clinics, etc?
Here is a list of some items that you should have in your medical kit:
- Bandages: Assorted sizes for small cuts, blisters, etc.
- 4-inch closure strips or butterfly closures: For closing large wounds. 4-inch strips are more effective than butterfly.
- 4 inch by 4 inch sterile dressing pads (5 to 10): To apply pressure to a wound and stop bleeding
- Non-adherent sterile dressing (2 inch by 2 inch): Use these or Second Skin to cover blisters, burns or lacerations.
- Gauze roll: Holds dressing in place.
- Small roll of 1-inch adhesive tape: Holds dressings in place.
- Multi-use tool or knife: Should include knife, scissors. A scalpel and blade are also useful for first aid.
- Forceps or tweezers: For removing splinters, ticks, and removing debris from wounds.
- Scissors: Trauma scissors, which have a blunt end to protect the patient, can be used for cutting away clothing from injury, cutting medical tape, etc.
- Thermometer: Digital is generally more accurate, but batteries do wear out.
- Malleable splint: Lightweight foam-covered aluminum, such as a SAM splint.
- Irrigation syringe (35 cc): Used to flush and clean wounds.
- Suction syringe (65 cc): Used to clear mouth of fluids when giving CPR.
- Safety pins: Can help remove splinters, fasten arm sling, or make a whole in a plastic bag for improvised wound irrigation.
- Cotton-tip swabs: For removing foreign objects from eye, or applying antibiotic ointment.
- Resealable plastic bags: Many uses, including icing a swollen joint or creating wound irrigation device.
- ACE, Coban, or other rubberized bandage: Can be used as outer wrap on splints, wound dressings or support for joint injuries. Be careful not to wrap too tightly.
- Antiseptic towlettes: For cleaning small wounds.
- Cleansing pads with lidocaine: For cleaning. Includes a topical anesthetic for abrasions, stings, etc.
- Topical antibiotic ointment: For application to wounds. Simple Vaseline can also be used in dressing a wound.
- Moleskin: Prevents blisters. Cut and apply a section to your foot as soon as you discover a “hot spot.” Duct tape also works for this purpose.
- Povidone Iodine USP 10 percent, 1 oz.: For preventing infection. Bottled PVD iodine 10 percent solution should be diluted to a ratio of 1 percent or less for flushing wounds.
- Aloe vera gel: Found in packets or small bottles for relief of minor burns.
- Pain relievers, including aspirin and Ibuprofen: Provides relief for minor aches and pains, reduces fever, helps reduce inflammation of sprains and other injuries.
- Antihistamines: For relief of pollen allergies, or to reduce reaction to bites and stings.
- Immodium 2 mg capsules or tablets: For relief of diarrhea from intestinal infections.
- Pepto Bismol or antiacid tablets: For relief from general diarrhea, abdominal upset.
- After Bite or hydrocortisone cream USP 1 percent: Relieves skin irritation from bites, poison oak, stings, or allergic reactions.
- Latex or nitrile gloves: Protects against blood-borne diseases and infection.
- CPR microshield mask: A compact flexible barrier with a one-way valve for rescue breathing, which protects user from blood, vomit or saliva.
- Oral rehydration salts: Packet of electrolyte salts and glucose for treatment of dehydration, heat exhaustion, or loss of fluids from vomiting or diarrhea.
- Space bag/blanket: Lightweight emergency shelter. For treating hypothermia victims.
- Paper and pencil: For recording medical data such as body temperature, pulse, time and date of symptoms, injuries, medicines administered, etc. Most repackaged kits include accident report forms.
- Wilderness First Aid booklet: Many prepackaged first aid kits contain one. An excellent pocket guide is the Wilderness Medical Handbook