Off-Highway Vehicles (OHV)
Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) users will find many opportunities for off-highway enjoyment in the Sierra National Forest.
Become familiar with State OHV Laws, restrictions, and closures. Respect private property, wildlife and other forest visitors. Always operate your vehicle in a safe, responsible manner and follow the USDA Forest Service Rules of Conduct.
For information regarding how you can help protect the forest follow this link and learn how you can Tread Lightly while using your OHV.
Use only the roads and trails designated for off highway motor vehicle use.
OHV Trail Riding
OHV trails on the High Sierra District are:
- Bald Mountain Area.
- Bear Diversion
- Brewer
- Coyote Lake
- Dusy/Ershim
- Hooper
- Mirror Lake
- Onion Springs
- Red Lake
- Spanish Lake
- Swamp Lake
- West Lake and Strawberry Lake
Motor Vehicle use Maps (MVUM)
To locate roads and trails designated for vehicle use, and their opening/closing dates on the Sierra National Forest please visit the MVUM finder. It is your responsibility to reference the MVUM to stay on designated routes for motor vehicle use.
Open/Close dates are subject to change without notice and can be condition based due to weather and safety factors.
For more information regarding OHV Routes and Conditions, please Contact the following OHV District Offices:
Bass Lake Ranger District - 559-877-2218 ext.3125
High Sierra Ranger District - 559-855-5355 ext.0
Areas for OHV Trail Riding at High Sierra Ranger District:
Bear Diversion and Hooper Diversion OHV Map
OHV Camping
There is no camping within 100 feet of lakes, streams, trails, and meadows. Campfire permits are free and available at your local Forest Service office, or you can click here to get one online. A campfire permit is required for wood fires, charcoal fires, or portable stoves.
OHV Road Riding
The Sierra National Forest offers a variety of trail riding experiences. In general, off-highway vehicles can operate on any road or trail that is designated with a OHV marker (a jeep symbol). California Vehicle Code and Green Sticker laws apply on all National Forest roads.
OHV Trail Riding
Many people with different interests may be enjoying an area at the same time. Trail and camping courtesy are essential for everyone to have an enjoyable experience. Be a good neighbor and extend the same courtesy and consideration to those around you as you expect from them. If you are using a Off-Highway Vehicle please follow the rules below when using trails:
- Motorcycles Yield to All
- Bicycles Yield to Equestrians and Hikers
- Hikers Yield to Equestrians