6 replies to this topic

[XJINTX]

Hey you all... have a question for the experts. I'm planning a trip with some other guys and gals in 2020. We will run the Washington and Oregon Backroad Discovery Routes. My question here is if any of you have run either or both in your rig with your FWC? I have done some other Discovery Routes and done some pretty good off road stuff in mine.

 

I am trying to decide if I want to do these routes with mine? Of course the FWC combo with my F250 is a lot more comfortable than my Tacoma with OZ tent setup. Should I err to caution and take the Tacoma or would the FWC be OK?

 

THANKS!!!!

[AWG_Pics]

Interesting. I have been on 80% of those roads over the last 20 plus years and never knew they were designated Washington and Oregon Backroad Discovery Routes. I thought they were just good ways to get off the beaten path! Having said that, I don't anticipate you would have any trouble with your FWC. Perhaps others have a different opinion, but most of those roads were originally created as logging or other working roads. I have seen logging trucks, dump trucks, low-boys with heavy equipment and lots of recreationalists on these roads. You will be traveling through some amazingly diverse and beautiful country. Have a great time!

[Wandering Sagebrush]

Tony, I wonder if there are different routes in Oregon with the same common name.   Trying to get information for Roger, I asked my SIL about his experiences (he’s a motorcycle rider), and he said that portions of the Oregon BDR were rocky, rough, and more suitable for jeeps.  

[AWG_Pics]

Tony, I wonder if there are different routes in Oregon with the same common name.   Trying to get information for Roger, I asked my SIL about his experiences (he’s a motorcycle rider), and he said that portions of the Oregon BDR were rocky, rough, and more suitable for jeeps.  

That could be the reason I have only traveled 80% of the routes. Likely the other 20% was too gnarly for my friend's 4 Runner or the Isuzu 4WD I had at the time. Likely the OP will need to occasionally loop away from the BDR and reconnect later if he takes his FWC. Good information!

[Kolockum]

Sections I am familiar with (Been on within last 4 years):

- Rimrock Lake to HWY 410. Gravel Road good condition. Be sure to check out Timber Wolf Overlook

Not sure of the route from HWY 410 to Wenas - some of those roads are nice some are just wide rocky dirt bike trails.

- Wenas Rd to Umtanum Ridge to Dur Creek is normally passable. There are some deep mud holes on the ridge during early spring.

- Durr Creek to Ellensburg to Table Mountain (stop at lions rock for good view) is good dirt and paved roads.

-Table Mountain to Wenatchee is a narrow dirt road/nice trail if I remember right (been about ~7 years)

 

Would I try to drive the entire route with my Tacoma/FWC Eagle: Yes, it is on my list for this summer.

[Adventurer]

Some of the route in So Oregon will be very rocky and will beat the snot out of your FWC; however, it will be fine if you're willing to drive in four-low and just idle through those sections.  They will take hours though if you want to drive that slow.  I would suggest jumping off the trail, I think it's south of Riley, and then hop back on...I can't remember where.  I was driving south to north.  It is absolutely beautiful and mostly doable in a full-size rig.  Have a great trip and report back, with lots of pics!

[clikrf8]

There are some trip reports out there on other websites. We have been on parts but have not done the entire routes. In Washington State, there are several routing options if you are inclined to be more cautious or adventurous. Check out this blog for some ideas: https://adventuretaco.com/ He has done quite a few BDRs. I think most of the western states have one. Butler Maps has all but OREGON which has a website and their own maps. You can get paper editions or digital gps maps on the AVENZA app. I think they are around $15?