ATVing
In the 1.2 million acre Black Hills National Forest in western South Dakota, there are 5,000 of miles of primitive roads ideal for ATV or ORV riding. Most of these roads are open to off-roading fun. The BHNF has no trail designated for ATVs or motorcycles. Riders are directed to use the many miles of low-standard "two-track" roads that crisscross the forest. Generally you can ride anywhere in the Black Hills National Forest, guided by the "open-unless-closed" principle. That means area where you should not ride will be posted or gated. Be careful, because hundreds of acres of private property are intertwined among the Forest Service Land. An official Forest Service map shows not only public and private land, but also trails, tracks, mines, springs, fire lookouts, etc.
We have liberal and enlightened ATV policies...but you must ride responsibly if we are to continue to be able to ride in the Black Hills!
In some portions of the Black Hills National Forest, travel management rules prohibit off-road riding to protect soils and other natural features, timber harvests or wildlife refuges. Please remember that over-aggressive driving can cause extensive resource damage and wildlife disturbance.
The Black Hills National Forest encourages all motorized users to follow the Tread Lightly! Pledge: Travel and recreate with minimum impact. Respect the environment and the rights of others; Educate yourself – plan and prepare before you go. Allow for future use of the outdoors – leave it better than you found it. Discover the rewards of responsible recreation.
Areas that are strictly off limits to ATV and ORV riders include Black Elk Wilderness, Victoria Lake, Spearfish Canyon, Bear Mountain, Polo Peak, Jasper and Elk Mountain fire burns, campgrounds, picnic areas and lake areas. Hiking trails including George S. Mickelson Trail are closed to ATV and ORVs.
A portion of the Centennial Trail, through the Black Hills National Forest near Nemo, is designated for ATV riders.
One popular riding area for dirt biking and ATV riding is located on the north edge of the Buffalo Gap National Grasslands, south of Farmingdale. The dirt bluffs and grassy knobs at the Railroad Buttes ORV Area are filled with challenging trails and jumps. Go only when it's dry; in wet weather this area is a quagmire of slippery, super-sticky clay that locals call "gumbo."
ATVs in South Dakota are governed by state motorcycle law. There is no minimum age or license for off-road drivers; however, manufacturer’s operator guidelines should be followed. On-the-road drivers need a valid drivers license and a licensed ATV. ATV use is prohibited on the interstate highway system. A complete list of laws regulating ATV use in the state can be found at www.offroadriders.org
Links to Consider:
Printable Centennial Trail Brochure
