Get Your Motor Runnin’! The South East BDR® Stays Here

There’s something about the rumble of engines winding through the backroads of Appalachia that gets your heart racing, even if you’re not the one in the saddle.

When the crew behind the South East Backcountry Discovery Route® (SEBDR or South East BDR) rolled through Tennessee on their dual-sport motorcycle journey, they made a pretty cool pit stop: Welcome Valley Village, one of our Timberroot properties. Their team chose our forest-wrapped riverside cabins as a launchpad for their ride through the wild and rugged terrain of the Southeast – and we think that says a lot.

They could’ve stayed anywhere. They chose us. And that makes us proud.

But this blog isn’t just for BDR® riders. This is for our people. The ones who chase meaning, not mileage. The ones who want to feel connected to where they stay.

If that’s you, keep reading.

We’ve got stories to tell, trails to share, and a slice of Tennessee that just might be your next favorite place to explore.

So, What Exactly Is the South East BDR?

The South East Backcountry Discovery Route® (or SEBDR, if you’re into the whole brevity thing) is a 1,300-mile off-road motorcycle route stretching from the white sands of Florida’s Gulf Coast all the way to the mountains of Virginia.

It’s part of the nationwide BDR® project – a nonprofit that maps out dirt-road adventures for dual-sport motorcycles promotes responsible land use and helps boost small towns along the way. Think dirt, gravel, switchbacks, and enough scenery to make your jaw drop.

Basically, it’s the kind of thing that makes you want to ditch your inbox and hit the trail, helmet or not.

And here’s the kicker: this adventure-packed ride passes just 10 minutes from Welcome Valley Village.

Welcome Valley Village: Not Just a Pit Stop for the South East BDR

Let’s talk about our spot for a second.

Welcome Valley Village is tucked right on the banks of the Ocoee River, surrounded by forest and fresh air, with just the right amount of rustic charm. Whether you’re adventuring on two wheels or two feet, it’s the kind of place that makes you slow down and stay awhile.

Here’s what you’ll find:

• Log cabins and Conestoga wagons that feel like something out of a storybook (but with A/C and comfy beds, of course)
• A dock on the river perfect for swimming, paddling, or just sipping coffee while the mist rolls in
• A big ol’ covered pavilion for group dinners, games, and laid-back hangs
• Hammocks and hiking trails woven through the woods
• Crackling fire pits for late-night marshmallows and stargazing
• And some serious peace and quiet

It’s not just a place to stay; it’s a place to connect.

With nature, yourself, and each other.

Why the South East BDR Riders Chose Us

These folks ride some of the country’s gnarliest, most scenic roads. They know what makes a great place to rest, recharge, and tell stories from the day. And they picked Welcome Valley Village for a reason.

We’re just 10 minutes off the route, surrounded by forest, close to small-town stops for gas and food, but still wild enough to feel like you’ve discovered something special.

We even made it into the official SEBDR promo video and were featured on the Ride BDR Youtube Channel. Not to brag… but okay, we’re totally bragging.

You Don’t Have to Be on a Motorcycle to Get It

Even if you’ve never so much as sat on a motorcycle, there’s still plenty of adventure here.

Looking for something mellow? Float down the Ocoee River. Take a hike through Cherokee National Forest. Or just find a hammock, grab a book, and listen to the birds.

Craving adrenaline? We’ve got whitewater rafting, ziplining, glider plane rides, and mountain biking just minutes away.

Traveling with the crew? Our cabins and wagons are perfect for family getaways, group trips, and reunions. Let the kids run wild. Grill out under the stars. Swap stories by the fire.

Where Adventure (and Good People) Stay

The SEBDR crew came through on two wheels and left a little trail dust and a lot of inspiration behind. We’re not just proud they stayed here; we’re proud to be the kind of place that adventurers of all kinds call home, even if it’s just for a few nights.

So whether you’re riding cross-country or just escaping for a weekend in the woods, Welcome Valley Village is ready for you.

Book your stay at Welcome Valley Village and see why adventure stays here.

(And if you hear the faint hum of motorcycles in the distance… now you know the story.)