Top 10 ATV Trails and Dirt Bike Parks to Ride This Summer

There’s something timeless about spending summer on the back of an ATV or dirt bike. Warm air, dusty trails, and that unbeatable grin you get when you conquer a tricky hill. For me, summer is the season to unplug, rev up, and explore hidden trails across the country.

One July, I spent a weekend riding Colorado’s high mountain passes alone , just me, my quad, and endless switchbacks. I came back sunburnt, filthy, and convinced that summer off-road adventures are the best way to spend warm weekends. So if you’re ready for your next thrill, here’s my state ATV trail guide and dirt bike park picks to make this summer legendary.

Long daylight, dry trails, and open campgrounds , summer riding is the sweet spot for both newbies and seasoned dirt chasers. Many OHV trail maps expand in the warmer months, giving riders access to trails buried under snow all winter. Bring water, pack smart, and you’ll come home with a full heart and a muddy machine.

This list blends reader favorites, local secrets, and trails I’ve personally ridden. I wanted to highlight a mix: forests, dunes, rocks, mud pits. Some are mellow and family-friendly, others will test your machine (and your nerve). Ready? Let’s hit it.

California is a classic for riders. The Rubicon Trail is off-road royalty: granite slabs, creek crossings, and stunning views. For desert vibes, check out the Mojave Road. Need trees? Shasta-Trinity National Forest has shady paths perfect for beginners and families.

Nothing beats Colorado’s Alpine Loop. You’ll find ghost towns, alpine lakes, and peaks you can almost touch. Rampart Range is a good intro for new riders, with easy loops and picnic spots. Keep an eye on the weather , afternoon storms roll in quick!

If sand is your thing, Utah’s Little Sahara Recreation Area is endless dunes heaven. For the bucket list, ride Moab’s Slickrock Trail. The red rock grip is unbeatable and the desert views will make you stop every mile just to stare.

Tillamook State Forest offers some of the best shaded ATV trails USA has to offer. Tight woods, clear streams, and campgrounds for multi-day trips. Winchester Bay is a local gem for sand dune fans , you can run forest and coast in a single day.

Florida is a mud paradise. The Swamp Offroad Park near Chipley lives up to its name. Big Cypress National Preserve offers a rare tropical twist: sandy tracks through cypress groves, plus the occasional gator sighting. Bring bug spray!

Texas lives large in the dirt too. Hidden Falls Adventure Park has over 200 miles of trails, with terrain for every rider. Barnwell Mountain Recreation Area near Gilmer offers rocky hills and wooded paths perfect for escaping the city heat.

Windrock Park is a Southeast classic. Over 300 miles of trails snake through Appalachia, with ridge views that’ll make your Instagram followers jealous. The park is well maintained, with trails for dirt bikes, ATVs and side-by-sides.

Brushy Mountain Motorsports Park is a family go-to. Clean facilities, well-marked trails, and loops for kids to build confidence. Locals often camp out for long weekends , it’s one of the top family ATV riding spots around.

Summer means early morning rides in Arizona’s desert. Cinder Hills OHV near Flagstaff has soft volcanic soil , perfect for forgiving falls. Sycamore Creek is more technical with rocky gullies and refreshing water crossings.

Silver Lake State Park is famous for blending dunes and forest in one loop. You can ride sandy hills in the morning and weave through shady woods by afternoon. For bigger adventures, the Michigan Cross Country Cycle Trail offers hundreds of miles of connected loops.

Every seasoned rider swears by the basics: helmet, gloves, goggles, boots. Pack a first-aid kit and basic tools , they’ve saved my hide more than once.

Yield to uphill riders, be polite when passing, and always keep to marked trails. Off-roading is a privilege, so help keep trails open for everyone.

Pick easy loops and start slow. Many parks offer kid-sized tracks and safety classes. It’s a great way to bond and teach respect for the outdoors.

Always check the latest OHV trail maps and permit requirements. Some parks change rules by season. A quick call or website check saves you a big headache.

Fill your tank, grab lunch, and buy your supplies from local businesses. Off-roading helps small communities , so it’s good karma all around.

This summer, I hope you carve new tracks, find hidden trails, and come back covered in dirt and smiles. From Utah’s dunes to Oregon’s forests, the USA has endless off-road motorcycle parks and ATV trails waiting for your tire marks.