Motor Vehicle Use Map Clarification

Due to the passing of a new state law in Washington (HR1632), there’s a need to clarify the Motor Vehicle Use Map language as it pertains to driving ORVs on National Forest roads.

The Motor Vehicle Use Map shows the roads, trails and areas where you can take your Off Highway Vehicle.   These roads, trails and areas are designated by type of motor vehicle allowed and the allowable season of use.

For example, on National Forest System Roads that allow motor vehicle use the 2 primary designations are Roads Open to Highway Legal Vehicles Only and Roads Open to All Vehicles. 

Some examples of the vehicle types that are highway legal are:  passenger cars, pickup trucks, SUVs and motorcycles that by state law are licensed for general operation on all public roads within the state.

Some examples of vehicles that are not highway legal include: ATVs, UTVs (side by sides), off road motorcycles, golf carts and any other motor vehicle that by state law is not licensed for general operation on all public roads in the state.

A road that is designated as open to all motor vehicles allows any motor vehicle both licensed and unlicensed for general operation on all public roads in the state which would include all Off Highway Vehicles. 

Refer to the appropriate Motor Vehicle Use Map to determine the allowed motor vehicle use for a specific National Forest System road, trail or area.  These maps are available at all National Forest offices and on all National Forest web sites.  Call your national forest if you have questions.