Off Highway Vehicles (OHV)
Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Riding & Camping is a popular activity on the Forests. Off-Highway Vehicles include motorcycles, All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs), and Utility Type Vehicles (UTVs). See the documents below to decide which roads and trails you can travel with your vehicle type. Information signs at gates and trailheads identify closures and restrictions.
These documents can help you plan your trip:
- Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests map - available at forest offices
- 2005 Motor Vehicle Use Maps (MVUMs) - Clearwater National Forest
- 2008 Nez Perce National Forest Road Access Guide
- 2008 Nez Perce National Forest Trail Access Guide
The forest is currently completing the analysis for the Nez Perce National Forest Motor Vehicle Use Maps. More information is available at the Nez Perce National Forest Travel Management project page.
Your Safety is Important to Us
Idaho state law allows individuals under 16 years old to operate OHVs on National Forest System roads whether or not they have a driver's license. When traveling on National Forest System roads to or from your favorite camping or hunting spot, you may encounter other drivers of all ages with varying experience levels and different types of motorized vehicles. Please take extra care to watch for all kinds of traffic to avoid life-altering collisions on roads managed by your National Forest.
For More Information
Visit the Idaho State Parks and Recreation web site for complete information on opportunities and requirements for off-highway vehicles in Idaho.
The Tread Lightly web site is another good place to visit. It is hosted by a nonprofit organization with a mission to promote responsible outdoor recreation through ethics education and stewardship.
The Idaho Off-Highway Vehicle Public Outreach Project promotes the responsible, shared use of trails. The Idaho OHV campaign coordinator collaborated with five state and federal agencies (including the Forest Service) on Idaho OHV issues to produce the "Stay on Trails" video. For more information, access their website.
OHV Road Riding
There are many OHV Road Riding Areas nearby to campgrounds, some Lookouts, and Trailhead sites on the Forests.
OHV Trail Riding
The Milner Trail is one example of an excellent off-highway vehicle route. The system is graveled, having a tread surface of 8-16 feet in width with good sight distance and drainage. The grades are gentle and provide good travel for beginners and advanced users. The route is open year-round and is groomed by a local snowmobile club.
Visit the Idaho Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation Guide web site for information on ATV trails in the State of Idaho.
OHV Camping
Common OHV Camping Areas include the Highway 14 Corridor, North Fork of the Clearwater Corridor, and the Palouse Corridor.
Search for Off Highway Vehicles (OHV) Opportunities
14 Mile Trailhead
Aquarius Campground and Purple Beach Group Site
Bald Mountain Lookout
Bridge Creek Campground
Castle Butte Lookout
Clark Mountain/Orogrande Trailhead
Cold Springs Peak Cabin
Colt Creek Trailhead
Elk Summit Campground
Fish Lake Trailhead