Epic UTV Trails Across the U.S. You Need to Ride
UTV riding is more than just a sport; it is an adrenaline-packed way to explore the great outdoors. Whether you love tackling rocky climbs, navigating deep forests, or ripping through open dunes, the U.S. is packed with epic UTV trails waiting for you.
This guide highlights the top UTV trails across the country, from the legendary slickrock of Moab to the sandy playgrounds of Glamis. No matter your skill level, there is a perfect trail for you. Buckle up, fuel up, and let’s ride!
1. Moab, Utah – The Ultimate Off-Road Playground
📍 Location: Moab, Utah
🛠 Terrain: Slickrock, sand, steep climbs
📏 Difficulty: Moderate to extreme
🗓 Best Time to Visit: Spring & Fall
Moab is a bucket-list destination for off-roaders. The unique slickrock terrain provides incredible traction, making for a thrilling ride over steep inclines and technical rock sections.
Top Trails in Moab:
- Hell’s Revenge – Famous for its steep, technical climbs and breathtaking views.
- Fins and Things – A fun, rolling trail with slickrock sections perfect for intermediate riders.
- Poison Spider Mesa – A mix of sand, rock crawling, and challenging sections.
Pro Tip: Some trails require permits. Weather conditions can change quickly, so be prepared.
2. Hatfield-McCoy Trail System, West Virginia – A Rider’s Paradise
📍 Location: West Virginia
🛠 Terrain: Forested trails, mud, rocky climbs
📏 Difficulty: Easy to extreme
🗓 Best Time to Visit: Year-round (Fall is stunning!)
With over 1,000 miles of interconnected trails, this legendary trail system has something for everyone. You will ride through dense forests, climb rocky hills, and experience some of the best-maintained UTV trails in the country.
Top Trails in Hatfield-McCoy:
- Rockhouse – A mix of easy and technical trails, great for all levels.
- Bearwallow – Features steep climbs and incredible mountain views.
- Devil Anse – A historic trail passing through scenic coal country.
Pro Tip: Many nearby small towns cater to UTV riders with UTV-friendly lodging and dining options.
3. Glamis Sand Dunes, California – The Ultimate Dune Experience
📍 Location: Imperial Sand Dunes, California
🛠 Terrain: Massive sand dunes
📏 Difficulty: Moderate to extreme
🗓 Best Time to Visit: October – April
Nicknamed the "Sand Toy Capital of the World," Glamis offers an open playground of rolling dunes perfect for high-speed fun.
Top Spots in Glamis:
- Osborne Overlook – A scenic spot for breathtaking views.
- China Wall – A challenging section with steep dunes.
- Oldsmobile Hill – Popular for high-speed hill climbs.
Pro Tip: Bring paddle tires for the best traction in deep sand. Watch out for fast-moving vehicles.
4. Black Hills National Forest, South Dakota – Scenic & Rugged Terrain
📍 Location: South Dakota
🛠 Terrain: Rocky, forested trails, streams
📏 Difficulty: Easy to moderate
🗓 Best Time to Visit: Late Spring – Early Fall
This off-road paradise is home to hundreds of miles of trails winding through forests, open meadows, and rugged hills.
Pro Tip: Trail permits are required. Many routes pass through historic sites, so take time to explore.
5. Paiute ATV Trail, Utah – Endless Riding Opportunities
📍 Location: Utah
🛠 Terrain: Mountainous, rocky, high-altitude trails
📏 Difficulty: Moderate
🗓 Best Time to Visit: Summer & Fall
The Paiute Trail is a massive 275-mile loop with thousands of side trails, offering endless riding possibilities. Be prepared for elevation changes and unpredictable weather.
6. Cloud 9 Ranch, Missouri – A Private Off-Road Paradise
📍 Location: Caulfield, Missouri
🛠 Terrain: Forested trails, rocky climbs, creek crossings
📏 Difficulty: Easy to extreme
🗓 Best Time to Visit: Spring through Fall
Cloud 9 Ranch is a 6,500-acre private riding destination in the heart of the Ozarks. This members-only ranch offers a well-maintained and diverse trail system, from easy scenic rides through wooded areas to steep, technical rock climbs.
Great Trails at Cloud 9 Ranch:
- 101 Trail – A beautiful trail through dense forest with creek crossings.
- Eagle Rock – A challenging rocky climb with rewarding views at the top.
- John Wayne – A mix of rocky terrain and winding wooded trails.
Pro Tip: A membership or guest pass is required to ride. Camping, cabins, and other amenities make this a great weekend destination.
Other Must-Ride UTV Trails in the U.S.:
- Ocala National Forest, Florida – Sandy trails in a subtropical setting.
- Windrock Park, Tennessee – 300+ miles of trails in one of the biggest off-road parks in the U.S.
- Imperial Sand Dunes (Gordons Well), California – A lesser-known but equally thrilling sand dune area.
- Brimstone Recreation, Tennessee – A hidden gem with 300 miles of wooded, mountain trails.
Tips for an Epic UTV Adventure
✔ Safety First: Always wear a helmet and protective gear.
✔ Know the Rules: Check for permits and trail regulations.
✔ Pack Smart: Carry water, tools, and a first-aid kit.
✔ Respect the Trails: Stay on designated paths and leave no trace.
Get Out There
Whether you are chasing steep rock climbs in Moab, high-speed dune runs in Glamis, or scenic mountain trails in Tennessee, the U.S. has endless UTV adventures waiting for you.