It doesn’t matter what part of the country you live in, you’re not too far from some of the best off-road trails for dirt bikes.
Every state offers rugged trails and open land worth exploring; you just have to know where to look. Whether you take your bike to the dunes of California or you have a try at the rugged Tennessee Mountains, you are sure to enjoy the thrill and adventure these gorgeous surroundings offer you.
Backcountry trails provide lots of recreational opportunities for your OHV, ATV or dirt bike. That’s why we’ve chosen our 17 best off-road trails in the US for dirt bikes. At the end we included some tips on how to best preserve the land you’re riding on and how to pack for a backcountry dirt bike trip so you’ll be fully prepared next time you hit the trails.
Of course, there could be plenty more to add – drop us a comment if you don’t see your favorite spot!
So in no particular order, here are 17 of the Best Dirt Bike Trails in the United States
17. The Paiute ATV Trail, Utah
In Central Utah, you’ll find the Paiute ATV trail that consists of more than 2,000 miles of trails to explore. It’s not meant for the lighthearted, rather only serious dirt bikers will make it. The main loop consists of almost 300 miles and stretches out over four counties in the state. It would take you over 24 hours to ride it all!
The Paiute Trail is one of the largest in the country and showcases some amazing rock formations, wild forests, diverse wildlife and lakes, and all the gorgeous landscapes Utah is known for.
The best time to visit is from August through October. Make sure you plan to stay for at least a couple days, although we recommend spending over a week here if you truly want the full experience.
16. Moab, Utah
We can’t help but stay in Utah for a moment to discuss the hundreds of OHV trails located around the infamous town of Moab. We also can’t wait to get Moab out of the way, because while it’s the one that gets all the attention from riders of all sorts it’s far from the most impressive place to ride a dirt bike in the United States.
You’ve probably never seen someone talk bad about Moab before, so take a second to recover from the shock.
Sure, it’s the ideal area for enduro-style riding. The surrounding area features plenty of National Parks, canyons and rock trails to try out. Many of them are challenging enough to thwart even the best riders.
And don’t get us wrong, it’s a truly beautiful place.
While the OHV trails on BLM and public lands are open to all off-road vehicles, some of them will require 4x4 ability to cross. That’s why the area hosts many annual 4x4 competitions includes Rally on the Rocks. Take your time and visit the most popular dirt trails like Poison Spider Mesa, Chicken Corners, Pritchett Canyon, Hell’s Revenge, Hidden Valley, Golden Spike, Kane Creek, The Rim and Hurrah Pass.
We highly recommend equipping your dirt bike with night lighting because you’ll want to check out the scenery once the sun goes down. Pack your tent and camp in the Canyonlands National Park for a full experience. And remember, camping on BLM land is free!
The problem with Moab is that it’s the Disney World of the off-road community.
Everyone goes there, everyone’s kids are screaming, and there’s barely an off-season to speak of. It’s one guy in a Mickey Mouse suit away from being a theme park in Florida.
You will rarely have a trail to yourself in Moab, and depending on who you are that can either improve or ruin the desert experience.
But hey, it’s that popular for a reason.
15. Imperial Sand Dunes, Glamis, California
If you want to explore sand for miles on end, you have to visit the Imperial Sand Dunes. Otherwise known as Glamis, this is the largest collection of dunes in the state of California. It’s also one of the largest recreational areas for OHVs.
That’s because the dunes measure 40 miles long and five miles wide. Some of them reach up to 300 feet from the ground. It’s the ideal place to push the limits on your UTV, ATV or dirt bike.
Glamis is one of the best places in the world to experience the desert on two wheels.
There are three main areas for OHV riding at Glamis.
You’ll mainly want to check out Oldsmobile Hill which is a giant dune that hosts thousands of enthusiasts each weekend. The best time to visit would be during early spring, fall or winter because summer temperatures reach over 100 degrees!
Of course, there’s no lodging nearby so you’ll need to pack your tent or take an RV with you. While some of the campsites offer bathrooms, you’ll need to plan ahead for all your other provisions.
14. Taylor Park, Colorado
If you want the ultimate outdoor adventure, then Colorado is calling your name.
Taylor Park is a haven for Jeeps, dirt bikes, UTVs and ATVs. It’s like a giant mountain playground that attracts die-hard off-roaders year round.
Because there’s lots of hiking trails, camping, fishing and spectacular views, we highly recommend taking a couple of weeks to enjoy them. At the very least, you’ll need to take a few days to ride around in the Rocky Mountains. For health reasons, of course.
13. Wayne National Forest, Ohio
Ohio might be the polar opposite of Moab, but there’s some beautiful riding to be had here.
There are four trail systems within the Wayne National Forest. It’s also one of the most extensive trail systems located in the state of Ohio. You’ll find a total of 145 miles of dirt bike trails chock full of deciduous forests and rough Midwestern dirt.
While your dirt bike won’t have any trouble on these trails, you might want to leave your UTV at home. Some trails aren’t wider than 50 inches and there are no plans to change that.
Wayne National Forest is a quiet place to visit if you want to avoid sharing the trail with hundreds of others.
12. Windrock Park, Tennessee
If you want to explore more than 72,000 acres and 300 miles of trails then Windrock Park is for you.
Personally, I feel that every off-roader needs to experience this haven at least once in their life. It’s everything you’ve dreamt about and more, and it’s one of the few places everyone on our staff has been and we all agree about.
This park is a privately owned area. In fact, it’s the largest in the country. They feature trails suited to any type of rider and there are accommodations for any vehicle. You can take your Jeep, mountain bike, truck, dirt bike, ATV or SxS if you desire.
Do your research before you go because there are specific trails for the beginner rider and advanced off-roader, but there will always be a super-experienced local on-hand that you can ask for directions.
From gravel washes to stair steps, from mountainside trails with sheer drop-offs to vast plateau vistas of rural Tennessee, Windrock Park easily contends for the best off-roading area in the United States.
11. Red River Motorcycle Trails, Texas
If you want to test out your skills, Red River Motorcycle Park is a great place to do it. They offer 2,500 acres geared toward motorcycles, dirt bikes and ATVs. There aren’t any easy trails, but you will find a variety of moderate courses to advanced.
There are varying types of terrain as well. Drive on sand, rocks, clay or dirt.
With all that’s offered, you’ll want to spend more than just a day there. Unfortunately, the park only opens on weekends. If you prefer to ride during the week, you can call and make an appointment instead. They generally require 24 hours of notice to book you a slot, so plan ahead. Book your stay here.
10. Ogemaw Trails, Michigan
The Ogemaw Sport and Trail Center is located in Michigan and is part of an ATV and Motocross campground. They offer youth tracks as well as some intermediate and advanced trails. Some of their tracks even include doubles, large table tops, a triple, step-ups, tall bowl berms and a ski-jump.
It’s the perfect way to enjoy a day out with the entire family.
Keep in mind that you can’t go on the youth track unless you are under the age of 12. You can stomp your kids’ friends in baseball or basketball all you want, but here you’re going to have to let them win.
Still, they have plenty to keep adults occupied with the freestyle jumps and hill climbs. Enjoy varying terrains that include rocks, mud and deep sand in the unique backdrop of rural Michigan.
9. Croom Motorcycle Area, Florida
Florida is a haven for off-road enthusiasts and Croom Motorcycle Area is one of the best trail systems this state has to offer.
It features 2,600 acres located in Central Florida’s Withlacoochee State Forest. They are open every day of the week and feature a variety of tracks for the entire family.
In addition, they offer a training area plus a section specifically for young riders. Head out for a long weekend and get away with your family.
8. Hatfield-McCoy Trails, West Virginia
You’ve probably heard of Hatfield-McCoy Trails because of those iconic names. Or perhaps from another name: it’s nicknamed Trails Heaven for good reason.
It’s become one of the most popular OHV riding areas in the United States because it offers more than 600 miles of managed terrain, offering something for everyone. Choose to ride in the woods on some twisting paths or enjoy a scenic mountain overlook. Or do both in the same day!
These paths are open year round and cross through several counties in the state. You will share the pathway with UTVs and ATVs, but you must get a permit to ride here. Get one here.
7. Sawtooth National Forest, Idaho
The Sawtooth National Forest in Idaho features some of the best views in the country, dirt bike or otherwise.
If you enjoy riding dirt bikes, you get a bonus because it provides thrilling riding to boot. Start at the Baumgartner area which is located along the South Fork Boise River. You will find it just eleven miles from Featherville.
The Sawtooths offer endless miles of single-track ATV and motorcycle trails. You can find some paths that UTVs are permitted on, but many of them feature a 48-inch wide limit or less. Be on guard because the single tracks are technical and feature plenty of steep descents, rocky sections and narrow switchbacks. You won’t want to ride on these unless you are advanced and experienced.
With that said, if you are up for the challenge, you’ll probably never have so much fun again. You can explore for miles without ever seeing the same incredible view twice.
To stay there, you will need to camp. There are several nearby campgrounds you can pick from, but the most popular is the Baumgartner Campground. Not only does it provide tons of riding opportunities, but also a swimming hole and hot spring for your enjoyment. Just keep in mind that the nearest amenities are going to be 30+ miles away.
Also, you’ll want to wait until summer to visit. Otherwise you will face amounts of snow that make Wisconsin look like child’s play.
6. Moro Plantation, Northern Maine
There’s no denying that the beauty of Northern Maine is breathtaking. It’s like the Oregon of the East up there, and that makes for some amazing dirt bike trails.
With the Moro Plantation, you get the chance to ride on more than 1,000 miles of trails. And if you want to start off at the Aroostook County ATV Trails, you’ll find another 1,200 miles of riding await.
That means you won’t ever lack a place to test out your skills.
You can ride the trails from the end of spring through mid-October. They offer dirt roads, mud bogs and plenty of wood trails as well. Keep your eyes open for the occasional bear or moose that like to hang out in the woods. Just make sure you dress warm; the area sees more than 100-inches of snow each year.
I bolded the word bear because as fast as you think your bike is, it’s not faster than a black bear. Your cute buzzy two-stroke looks like a delicious meal to those guys.
If you want a fun place to stay, make sure you check out the Katahdin Lodge. It sits on Mount Katahdin which is the largest peak in the state. At this lodge, you receive direct access to the Maine Interconnected Trail System and Aroostook County ATV Trails. The best part is that they lodge up to 25 people at a time, so you could go with a bunch of buddies for a long weekend and not feel crowded. After you are done riding, head back to the lodge for a home-cooked meal.
5. Black Hills National Forest, South Dakota
It’s no wonder riders flock to the Black Hills every year, and not just people with loud pipes and branded leather jackets.
The Black Hills National Forest offers stunning beauty in more than 600 miles of OHV trails. You’ll get a taste of everything from prairie plains and rock climbing arenas to wooded trails and scraggly cliffsides. After a long day of riding, you’ll think you visited three states!
The forest houses 11 reservoirs, 13,000 acres of sheer wilderness and another 1,300 miles of streams. If you watch where you are going, you might even notice an old-time mining site ripe for exploration.
As far as lodging is concerned, you’ll find more than 30 campgrounds on site. This allows you to get up in the morning and start riding right away. There’s also plenty to see and do for the entire family if they want to tag along. You can go fishing, picnicking, hiking, swimming and more.
And if you’re there at the right time, you’ll hear the roar of Sturgis far in the distance. Those boys don’t know what they’re missing out on.
4. Mud Creek Off-Road Park, Jacksonville, Texas
Mud riding is its own adventure and Mud Creek Off-Road Park offers the best mud trails you can get.
This park is home to the High Lifter Annual ATV Mud Nationals. It features over 3,700 acres of exhilarating terrain like bottomless mudholes, small creeks and plenty of woods and rolling hills.
While you are visiting Jacksonville, Texas, you might also consider making a short trip over to River Run Park. This is a 2,000-acre venue that also holds some of the best mud events yearly.
Just look at all that mud! I want to take a shower just looking at that.
3. Moser Creek Trail Head, Hyalite, Montana
There’s a reason they call it Big Sky Country.
Montana offers a vast, majestic lineup of mountains that just happen to have trails running through them. Hyalite has plenty of options available to you from the Moser Creek Trail Head to the Emerald Lake area.
The best part about these locations is that they aren’t far from amenities. If you want to rough it during the day but head back to a swanky hotel and get a warm shower and meal when you are done, that’s doable. That’s what makes this location ideal for dirt bike trail riders who still want to remain civil on their trip.
Keep in mind that bikes are only permitted during certain hours and certain months. For example, Moser Creek Trail Head allows your dirt bikes Sunday through Thursday only while the Emerald Lake area only permits them Wednesday through Saturday.
2. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
The 277-mile long Grand Canyon isn’t completely accessible to those looking to off-road, but there are some areas where you can get extremely close to the rim and see some unforgettable views of what some say is America’s best feature.
We suggest spending a couple of days remote camping at the North Rim before making the long drive around to the South Rim. There’s enough to explore at both sides, but the South Rim is much busier than the North and offers far more amenities.
If you are looking to be alone, head north but don’t go there in the winter. Elevations at the North Rim can exceed 9,000 feet, and although the desert may look dry, the snow gets so deep there in the winter that you can hardly get around.
1. Denali Highway, Alaska
We said this list was in no particular order, but this one is #1 for a reason.
For anyone with gasoline in their veins, one of the biggest bucket list items is seeing the Denali Highway in Alaska. That’s because it’s majestic, picturesque and stunning in every sense of the words.
This engineering marvel stretches on for 135 miles and offers great access to some of the best off-road dirt bike trails in the world. While you ride, make sure you take in the towering mountains and breathtaking views. You would be hard-pressed to miss them.
Bring every vehicle you’ve got if you plan on making the pilgrimage to the Denali. After all, a chance like this comes once in a lifetime.
Stewardship and Conservation
While you might tear up the trail on two wheels, you don’t want to ruin it for everyone else.
As you enjoy the best off-road trails in the United States for dirt bikes, you have a responsibility to care for the area around you. You want to ensure that the back country remains clean so that others can enjoy them too. Here are some of the best ways to practice conservation and be a good steward to your environment.
Don’t litter… pretty easy
Nobody wants to ride around your trash. Make sure you dispose of any garbage in appropriate places. That might mean taking it out with you if there’s nowhere on-site to dispose of it.
You carried it in, so carry it out.
Stick to designated trails
Many trails will be clearly marked or you can find a map through the local headquarters. Don’t ever ride where you aren’t allowed to go, no matter how fun it looks.
The terrain in many National Parks can often take decades to regenerate. What may seem like a simple jaunt through the desert floor could ruin it for years to come.
Respect other riders
You want to be responsible with your OHV riding. This protects the wildlife, environment and other motorists. You can enjoy the best of the trail while allowing others to do the same. Have fun, keep your footprint at a minimum and enjoy the trail.
Off-Road Trail Riding Safety
No matter what type of terrain you plan to ride on, there are certain safety measures you should always follow.
After all, riding on the trail isn’t like driving on a flat, smooth road. Heading out on rocky, snowy, muddy, sandy and dirt terrain puts you at a greater risk for injury. Aside from that, you likely won’t be near many other people and could be far from emergency support if something should go wrong.
Here are a few safety tips to follow when you ride on the best off-road trails in the US for dirt bikes.
Wear safety gear
Make sure you take your helmet, goggles, gloves and any other protective gear with you. Don’t leave it at home. You can wear high boots to shield your lower legs from debris as well. Furthermore, you’ll want to have a full adventure riding jacket or jersey made from abrasion-resistance material or complete with built-in armor to protect you from tree limbs. This also keeps you safe in the event of a crash.
As you choose your helmet, we recommend using an adventure or full dirt bike helmet along with a pair of goggles. This protects your head and eyes. Pair this with neck protection for the safest off-road travel.
Pack wisely
There are some things you should have with you when you head out on the trail. Start by packing some basic replacement parts just in case you would break down. You’ll also need some tools to make the repairs.
If you plan to ride alone, you might also consider riding with an emergency GPS transponder just in case you need help.
And don’t forget that bear from earlier. Always carry bear spray in the mountains.
Remain aware
You never know when you are going to encounter trouble, especially as you ride alone. Stay informed of your surroundings and be prepared to flee the situation if you need to.
Stay sober
There’s no room for drinking or smoking when you are riding. You must be on top of your game to handle the difficult terrain of off-road trails. Save the partying for when the ride is over.
Start close to home
Ideally, you would get to try out all the best off-road trails in the United States, but your own state might have something amazing you’ve never even heard of. Start by finding the locations closest to you and see what you can do. From there, maybe you can schedule a couple of weekends away to try out some other spots as well.
Of the off-road trails we listed, which are your favorites? If we overlooked something you feel should have made the list, make sure you leave a comment!
Ready for an epic road trip? The best OHV areas in the country include a desert oasis in Idaho, coastal sand dunes in Oregon, and the largest OHV area of them all.