Top Best UTV and ATV Trails in the US
Riding an ATV and UTV is one of the most enjoyable ways to walk in nature. In and around the US, there are plateaus for ATV and UTV rides and forest roads suitable for these activities. You can climb steep slopes and traverse particularly rugged terrain. Individual or group excursions can be arranged on forest roads. Skill off-road racing competitions can be organized.
So, if you are looking for some of the best UTV and ATV trails in the US, you are in luck. There are plenty of them to choose from - including the Hatfield McCoy Trails, Cedro Peak, and Moccasin Gap.
Below is a list of some of the greatest destinations you can consider this year for a welcomed summer adventure. If you want to take your UTV for a spin, these trails will be the perfect place to start.
Hatfield McCoy Trails
The Hatfield-McCoy Trail System in West Virginia has over 700 miles of trails for UTV enthusiasts to explore. This system is constantly growing and includes both new and established trails, ensuring that riders of all skill levels can enjoy the fun. The Hatfield-McCoy Trail System has a variety of terrain for a variety of skill levels, and the Hatfield McCoy Trails are among the best in the US.
The Hatfield-McCoy Trail System is not a huge open field; rather, it is a professionally maintained series of trails. These trails are ideal for both beginners and experts alike and offer everything from twisting forest trails to scenic mountain views. The trail system is open all year round, so anyone can take advantage of its terrain to the fullest. Moreover, the Hatfield-McCoy Trail System includes lodging and restaurants.
The Hatfield-McCoy Trails are open year-round. Conditions may vary from muddy and icy to frozen ground, but even in winter, they are fantastic. The trails are especially gorgeous after a fresh fall of snow. Whether you're looking for scenic, technical, or extreme riding, Hatfield-McCoy Trails are ideal for your next adventure.
Moccasin Gap
There are four main ATV loops at Moccasin Gap. You cannot miss the Gap Hollow, Stave Mill Falls loop, High Mountain Loop, and Black Oak loop, as they are exhilarating. Each trail features a combination of jeep roads, abandoned logging roads, and single-track ATV trails. The trails are multi-use and scenic and offer a variety of speeds and terrain. If you're looking for a challenge, you'll find fast drops, and a few serious water bar jumps here.
Cedro Peak
If you're looking for a great off-road adventure, consider a trip to the Cedro Peak UTV trail. This popular New Mexico destination features a series of single-track trails for ATVs, motorcycles, and SUVs. To access the trails, you must have a New Mexico OHV permit and a spark arresting exhaust silencer. The noise limit is 96 decibels.
Once at the parking area, the trail heads up the mountain, paralleling the road for a short time before diverging slightly. You'll find several trails on the way to the peak, so be sure to bring your GPS! When you get to the trailhead, you can either head for the peak or return to the parking lot. Either way, you'll enjoy this rewarding adventure. And don't forget to grab a snack while you're out riding!
There are a number of trails that are close to the park, including a 20-mile loop near Santa Fe. Although moderately trafficked, the loop is generally flat, bumpy, and rutty. The terrain gets more interesting near the end of the loop. If you have more time, you can take an 8-mile hike on the Point to Point Trail, which is considered moderately difficult. This route has a number of obstacles that make for an exciting ride.
Before you pack your bags and start thinking about off-road races and trails in New Mexico, check out the official information coming from New Mexico, as the trail might be closed for some periods throughout the year.
Zion National Park
If you're an adventurous type, you might consider taking your ATV for a spin in the rugged terrain of Zion National Park. From mountain forests to lowland deserts, ATV trails here are as diverse as the terrain itself. This park is home to the northernmost population of Joshua trees in the U.S. The Joshua Forest OHV trail winds nearly 20 miles through conservation areas, mountain passes, and abandoned copper mines. It is a unique opportunity to view rare desert flora and fauna. Another unique attraction is the Woodbury Desert Study Area, which is used for studying the native desert tortoise population.
Whether you're in the mood for a multi-day backpacking expedition or a family-friendly out-and-back, Zion National Park has hiking trails for every skill level. Hiking trails here can range from multi-day backpacking trips to day hikes to Emerald Pools. Because of the elevation, Emerald Pools is a great route for all ages. You can even take your dog on a leash to enjoy the park's spectacular scenery.
When choosing a time to go for a UTV tour, keep in mind that the summer months can be extremely busy. Many people opt for a more relaxed vacation in the park during the off-season when the weather is not as hot as in winter. The weather is more cooperative, and there are many hotels to choose from. But no matter what time of year you choose, it's important to know that Zion National Park has many advantages, including excellent lodging options.
Ocala National Forest
The Ocala National Forest is a popular destination for off-roading enthusiasts, as it is home to some of the best UTV trails in the US. In addition, the forest is a perfect place for a family UTV outing. Since it is located in the south, you can ride year-round. There are 17 miles of OHV trails to explore, and the trail system is accessible to all vehicles.
The Ocala North OHV Trail System is an impressive 125-mile loop that accommodates all types of ATVs and motorcycles. There are six main trails and more than 20 smaller, more specialized trails. There is also a 14-mile motorcycle-only loop, as well as a 35-mile trail for all-terrain vehicles. In addition, the Ocala National Forest ATV Tour welcomes beginners and intermediate riders.
The spring and fall seasons are ideal for UTV-ing, but be sure to bring insect repellent. Ticks can be particularly bothersome, so it is important to protect yourself from them. Permethrin is recommended by Sawyer Products for clothing and skin. Both repellents are EPA-approved. There are miles of muddy trails, perfect for a family of four or a group of friends.
The Ocala National Forest has several trails, including the Paisley Woods Bicycle Trail. These 22-mile single-track trails are located in rolling hills and deep woods. The trails are accessible throughout the year and are great for beginner riders, but you should note that you should ride at slow speeds, and avoid the rocky areas. In addition to a plethora of trails, you can also visit lakes and rivers throughout the region.
Bayfield State Park
If you are in the mood for some adventure, Bayfield State Park has some of the best UTV trails in the US. Its 185 miles of trails connect with hundreds of miles of other trails in the surrounding counties of Northern Wisconsin. At the Four Seasons Resort in Bayfield, Wisconsin, you can rent a UTV or ATV and head out to explore the beautiful landscape. The trails wind through glacially sculpted features and offer a wide variety of scenery. You can also expect to encounter a variety of wildlife along the way.
The park features a 220-acre terrain with trails for all levels. The park is located in a historic community on Lake Michigan. Forty buildings are on the National Historic Register, and the Kewaunee Historical Society Museum explores maritime history. The park is a must-see for avid UTV riders. It also offers hiking and fishing. The trails are ideal for beginners and professionals alike.
The Valhalla Area Trails wind through the Chequamegon National Forest and connect with the Battle Axe Trail. You can also visit the Old Baldy lookout. Another trail you can take is the Lenawee ATV Trail, which is 16 miles long and is mostly sandy. It connects to the Battleaxe Trail and the Tri Country Corridor Trail. You'll be rewarded with a beautiful view as you ride through the wilderness on your UTV.
A Few Words on Safety Before You Go
You may be an off-road expert or you may be a beginner, it does not matter. Before you go exploring these trails, you need to prepare yourself and your UTV for the adventure. Check out this off-roading guide, learn all about the off-roading essentials you need to consider, get your hands on the proper accessories and safety equipment, and then go. It would be a shame to spoil a thrilling adventure because you forgot your winch at home.
Conclusion
Off-road routes in the US have become more and more popular and, in order to offer as many facilities as possible to enthusiasts, countless applications and virtual maps have been developed. Moreover, for each route you will have access to:
- starting point and route length
- road statistics and their difficulty
- a detailed description of the route
- navigation function, with an option for night mode
- maps for any off-road route
- recommendations and contacts for accommodation
- photos and details of nearby sights.
We hope you found this article useful and that it helped you discover the best UTV trails in the US. Take the conversation to social media if you like and tell us which of the trails above you have visited or would like to visit this summer.