Click Here to View/Download our NEW Guide to Responsible ATV Driving

LET'S  R I D E! !

ATV riding is a great sport!  For the most part, trails are rough (great for the challenge!); remote (great for getting away from it all); and beautiful (great for getting closer to God and Nature!).  Views are breathtaking as you crest over the top of that tall ridge, and your eyes are blessed with the visage of a woodsy winter scene! Or perhaps you are riding on the plains or the desert sands.  In any event, the views can be breathtaking!

Allowable trails can generally be found by contacting the DNR or Bureau of Tourism in the area you wish to explore.  There are many kinds of trails available.  Hunting trails, trails from closed and abandoned railroad beds, groomed trails, and wilderness trails, to name a few.  It is important that no matter what kind of trail you use, you respect the trail.  Some trails cross private land by permission of the land owner.  But if traversing private land not previously authorized by the land owner, make sure you get permission from the land owner.  Some trails have been closed or have banned ATVs due to the disrespect and carelessness of a few riders.  Any trail is a privilege to ride, and riders should not tear up the turf, wander off the trails, nor clutter the landscape with their litter or leave it for others to deal with, nor disturb or destroy trees, brush, outhouses, etc.  To me, this seems like a common sense thing.

One of the most remarkable rides we enjoyed, was in Northern Minnesota in October.  The Paul Bunyan State Forest was a treasure chest of off road travel and awesome trails!  One could get very lost, but we had a guide and there were about 30 other riders.  It was a GREAT ride, and though the weather was somewhat crisp, it was beautiful!

Along with RESPONSIBLE RESPECTFUL RIDING, CAUTION must be your byword when traversing these trails.  Although it is rather fun (if quite dirty and wet) to slam into a mud bog full throttle, be sure you know how deep you are getting yourself into!  There may be large rock's or deep holes that you cannot see, so make sure you have checked it out before you slam into it!  When fording streams, traverse only where the marked trail crosses.   Valuable trail information and demographics can usually be obtained by contacting the US Forest Service, the DNR, or the Area Board of Tourism.  Our Wisconsin county, for instance, provides free trail maps and information.

ALWAYS make sure your equipment is well maintained before heading out for a ride.  Nuts and bolts must be tightened, fuel levels checked, brakes and tires checked, throttle and lights in good working order, etc.  Becoming stranded due to an avoidable equipment failure can ruin the ride for you and those with you!  Bring along road emergency tools, including a tire kit, flares and candles, food and water, flashlight, etc.  It is also handy to carry toilet paper and a refuse bag is a must.  A tarp you can string up in case of rain, and dry clothing or blankets, are also good to have along.

NEVER ride while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any mood altering substance!

ALWAYS wear a helmet, as well any other protective gear the terrain or the weather calls for.  Heavy gloves and long sleeves are a must in thorny, close trails.

So remember your manners, BE SAFE, and HAVE A GREAT RIDE ! ! !