Load up your motorcycles and dirtbikes and gas up your ATVs: It’s time to hit the trails in Montana. Hoping to race through Montana’s endless rolling plains or navigate exciting mountain terrain this summer? Here’s everything you need to know before you set out on your OHVing adventure in Montana:
What Is OHVing?
OHVing is off-highway vehicle recreation, an outdoor activity using motorized vehicles like dirt bikes, ATVs and side-by-sides to roam exciting terrain. From technical climbs to adrenaline-fueled downhills, there’s no shortage of land to explore no matter how you choose to get around.
Know Before You Go
Before setting out on the trails, there’s some important prep to do. When riding through rural landscapes, cell reception will be limited and unreliable. Make sure to alert someone of your plans and location, and it’s best practice to always ride with a buddy. Services will also be limited in these areas, so remember to top off all fluids ahead of time. Educate yourself on the trails to familiarize yourself with the area where you’re riding, and download maps to your phone if riding in an area without cell service. Conditions in Montana can change on a dime, so make sure you’re properly packed and dressed should the weather turn.
OHV Permits
If you’re planning to ride personal OHVs in Montana, you’ll need a permit known as an OHV Trail Pass. Residents and visitors are required to have their permit fixed to their vehicle, which can be purchased from the FWP Online Licenses page. These permits can take up to four weeks to be printed and mailed to you, so make sure to plan ahead when applying prior to your excursion. If you’d prefer to explore with rental equipment, you don’t have to worry about securing a permit — the outfitter is responsible for handling it. Find more information on OHV permits here.
Where To OHV in Montana
With thousands of miles of backcountry trails, Montana is a paradise for OHVers of all skill levels. Throughout the state in the summer months, riders can find everything from routes through wide-open landscapes to challenging mountain terrain. Physical trail maps are available at local Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks and U.S. Forest Service offices, and digital maps can be found on mtrecmaps.com. Looking to camp in between rides? Check out this article for information on all the best OHV areas that allow camping on or near the trails.
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Riding Responsibly
While you’re revving your engines, remember that the most fun is had when you’re riding responsibly. Be aware of your skill level, and don’t attempt to traverse terrain that you’re unable to navigate. Stay on trails in order to leave the landscape as undisturbed as possible. This helps to preserve the area not only for other riders but for local wildlife as well. Be a courteous rider, and respect other recreators to ensure everyone is able to enjoy their ride.
Go With a Guide
New to OHVing, or you’d rather someone else handle the details? Go with a guide! From helping you rent equipment to driving you through the toughest sections of the trail, a guide helps ensure that you have the most fun — and safe — ride possible on your OHV trip. With guides located in prime OHV recreation areas throughout the state, there are plenty of experiences to choose from.
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