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Friday, July 29, 2005
Rabbit Creek Mountain Mud Blast ATV Park
Can you guess what you'll find here from the name of this ATV park? You won't see too many rabbits, and there are no mountains, but you will find mud and a lot of fun. There are over 900 acres of muddy and dry trails for you to ride you ATV on. There are lighted climbing hills to challenge your ATV skills, and there is even a drive under a waterfall. Bring your camera for that one! It's not a vantage point you'll get too often on your ATV.
Many of the trails in Rabbit Creek are muddy all year round due to springs that flow in the area, make sure you have an ATV riding buddy that can tow you out if your ATV gets stuck in the mud. If you get really down and dirty with your ATV on these trails, Rabbit Creek has lighted shower facilities that have both hot and cold water.
There are a number of events exclusively for ATV riders, check the calendar online or call ahead and find out if they have an event going on that weekend or not. If you're ready for a fun weekend ride on your ATV, check out Rabbit Creek Mountain Mud Blast ATV Park, bring your friends, your ATV, and your camera, you'll want to remember this ride.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Mill Creek Park ATV Trails
Mill Creek Park ATV Trails are around 15 miles of trails located within this ATV park. Mill Creek requires that you show a waiver and a permit prior to riding your ATV. The waivers are available for $4 -$6 depending on if you will be riding your ATV within the District or outside the District.
Additionally, you will need to show a permit that can be obtained through the Department of Motor Vehicles. The permits are $11 if your ATV is titled in the State of Illnois, and $18 if the ATV is titled outside the State. The trails are randomly patrolled and any ATV rider found without the proper documentation to be riding within the park, will be subject to a minimum $100 fine. That $18 for the permit isn't looking so bad now, eh?
When the ground is very wet and riding your ATV could damage the trails, the Park will be closed to ATV riding. Call ahead before you make the trip and verify the park is open. Also, the ATV trails start roughly 2.5 miles into the park, make sure you have a way to transport your ATVs to the trails. Helmets are required, even though we know you wouldn't ride your ATV without one!
You must stay on the ATV trails and the Park has a strict policy again trailblazing. Because of the danger of fires, all ATV's must have mufflers or spark arrestors that are federally approved. Mill Creek Park has a lot of rules for ATV use, but it's a beautiful place with a lot of great trails to explore nonetheless.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Using ATVs At Primitive Acres Guest Ranch
A closely guarded secret in East Texas is the fun ATV trails at the Primitive Acres Guest Ranch. There are miles of ATV trails in this densely foliaged forest country.
The fees are very reasonable at only $10 per day plus $5 per extra person. if you need a place to stay to continue exploring on your ATV another day, Primitive Acres has you covered. There are currently 10 camp sites, 5 cabins, 3 cottages, 4 RV hookups, a concession stand, and even a pool with covered tables along the sides. The fees for camping are nominal.
There are ATV trails that lead to other ATV trails and since this area is not developed and many trails are not marked, a GPS would be a handy gadget to have mounted on your ATV. It's easy to lose your bearings in a densely wooded area as many of these trails are. These are shared trails so be aware of other foot and hooved traffic. Many of the ATV trails are muddy and there are a lot of creek gullies, hills and challenges. A riding buddy with experience getting out of mud and ravines would be a plus on this ATV trail ride. This can be a very challenging ride but you won't find one more fun if don't mind getting a little down and dirty with your ATV.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Royal Gorge ATV Club
If you're looking for an ATV club that is active in the community, you've come to the right club. The Royal Gorge ATV Club makes it their responsibility to help out and volunteer to the community when they can. This ATV club is family friendly and has two primary goals.
1)To enjoy safe, yet challenging ATV rides in the natural beauty offered to all lucky enough to live in Colorado.
2)To bring friends and family together in a year-round outdoor activity.
Membership in this ATV club is only $5.00 per single and $10.00 per family per year. Their members come from all over Southern Colorado to ride their ATVs with this fun, safe group of folks. Beginners are welcomed, as are experienced ATV riders. You can always pick up great tips from other riders no matter how long you've been riding your ATV.
This ATV club is very active in helping clean up trails and maintain trails for future ATV riders to enjoy. They have volunteered heavily at several riding areas, and more than once in many cases. They are a very environmentally conscious group that upholds the standards set forth by Treadlightly, and help to educate its members and other riders on safe and eco-friendly ATV riding habits. Colorado has its fair share of eco-conscious ATV clubs and Royal Gorge is certainly one of them.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
ATV Trails at O.C. Fisher Lake
O.C. Fisher Lake is located around San Angelo, Texas and has over 7600 acres most of which are completely undeveloped. There are some semi-desert conditions that are great for riding your ATV over, as well as some densely wooded areas. So there is something for every ATV rider's taste.
There are a lot of ATV trails to ride and make sure to use a map. These trails are densely covered in underbrush and the ATV trails are always clearly marked. As you are crossing the small rivers and streams in your ATV, look carefully at the water and you should see the big "concho pearls" produced by the fresh water mussels that inhabit these waters and produce the beautiful iridescent gems of all sizes and colors.
During the dry weather, the small streams will run dry and look deceptively low, cross in your ATV with care, the bottoms of these streams are very loose and you can get your ATV stuck rather quickly if you're not an experienced rider. Make sure you always have someone to tow your ATV out of these situations.
O.C. Fisher Lake has facilities available that include campsites with running water and electricity. If weather is inclimate, you can choose to stay one of six mini-cabins that accommodates you and 5 of your ATV riding friends. Gather up your friends and make the next ride you take with your ATV at O.C. Fisher Lake.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Rocky Mountain ATV Club
This is a fun ATV group in the Denver, Colorado area. There are no dues, no meetings, just a lot of riding. This is also a family oriented group and everyone is welcome to ride their ATVs.
Their members range in ages from 12 to 60+, and ride everything from utility to racing quads. Beginning ATV riders are especially welcome in this club and the other members are especially eager to help new ATV riders learn how to properly and safely navigate their ATVs.
How fast you ride is not important, this ATV club accommodates every riding style with a simple rule - When you come to a fork in the trail you wait for the rider behind you before continuing. That way no one gets lost, and everyone can ride the ATVs at their own pace. This group stops frequently to regroup and socialize, an idea way for beginners to learn to navigate and proper trail riding etiquette.
This group does alot to promote safety while having fun and respecting the environment. And because of the extreme nature of Colorado's high country, they also make sure everyone is well versed in the "must haves" for riding in the high country. According to Peter Kummerfeldt, who teaches survival at the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, "Most mountain accidents can be traced to two conditions that rob our brains of good judgement", Kummerfeldt said,"dehydration and hypothermia." His survival prescription calls for warm layers of clothing, a carbohydrate-based diet, rest, lots of drinking water and careful attention to avoiding injury.
Riding in Colorado's high country is an experience and this is a great group to experience it with!
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Thursday, July 28, 2005
The Positive Things ATVs Have Done To Improve Lands
If you have an ATV, you've probably heard from at least one well meaning friend about how your ATV is going to destroy the eco-system and you are not quite as eco-friendly as they thought you were. That's an unfortunate image that gets played again and again in the media, but the fact is, yes there are a few bad apples in the ATV barrel that gave a lot of responsible ATV riders a bad rap.
Colorado has a great program for ATV riders to contribute back to the community. Their Adopt a Road program allows an ATV club to adopt a road or ATV trail and maintain it. Nearly 100 ATV trails are currently being maintained in this manner. Several other States including Texas, Michigan,California, and Oklahoma have ATV clubs that participate in road clean ups, trail management, and even free education courses on the "leaving no trace" style of ATV riding, to insure up and coming ATV riders learn how to have fun on their ATVs but leave the terrain as natural and untouched as when they began their ride. Many ATV groups donate several weekends a year to carefully creating new ATV trails to allow vegetation to reclaim old trails so there is always not only a fresh trail to explore, but minimal damage to the land.
To give you an idea of how much trash an ATV group can remove, the Long Island Off Road Trail Cleanup reported they removed 18 tires, a freezer, loads of trash including a torn plastic bag filled with dirty diapers, lots of scrap metal, including pieces of appliances and signs. And this was before they reached the ATV trailhead to begin the clean up!
Another great cause that ATVs are used for, is the The Four Wheelin' Women of Ontario. This group has a fund raiser every year since 2000 to raise money and awareness about male breast cancer in honor of the father of a Parry Sound resident who passed away from the disease. As you can see, ATV groups and the great people who ride them, quietly do a lot of good things!
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
ATVing Somerville Lake
Somerville Lake has a great little ATV area for you to explore. The area is undeveloped, very eroded and you will find small pools of water in the lower lying areas (make sure you have someone that can tow your ATV in case you get stuck).
ATV riders are allowed to ride anywhere within the ATV area, there are no marked trails to follow. The ATV area is open all year around and no permit is required. Please use common sense and use all your safety gear when operating your ATV, especially on undeveloped terrain such as this.
Only 3 and 4 wheel ATVs are allowed on these trails along with motorcycles. If your ATV won't fit through the pipe rail fence at the entrance of the ATV trail, you simply can not ride it there. Since you're sharing these trails with other riders and the trails are not clearly marked, do exercise caution. This ATV area is only open from dawn until dusk and there is no camping allowed.
For such a small area, Somerville has a lot of challenges for the more experienced ATV rider. Beginners should stick to the paths closest to the trail head as it is a more open area, the terrain is eroded further into the ATV trails and could be more challenging than some ATV riders would like. Always get a map and see the most current trails so you know what to expect on your ATV ride. That will ensure you ride at Somerville Lake is a fun and safe time.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Southeastern Utah OHV Club
If you live in Utah and you want to join an ATV riding group, you can't get any better than Southeastern Utah OHV Club (SUOC). This non-profit organization located in Castledale, Utah represents the interests of not only ATV/OHV riders but motorcycle enthusiasts not only in the area but the State of Utah as well.
This group has worked hard to keep the land awareness issues open so that many riding trails can not be closed to responsible ATV/OHV riders, due to a few folks that didn't or wouldn't follow the basics in good sense and safety and ruined some of the great riding trails in Utah.
SUOC is involved in trail improvements and maintenance, ATV/OHV safety and etiquette awareness, and political action regarding land decisions for all recreational vehicle riders. This group did extensive work rebuilding and managing some trails in the mountains around Southern Utah to show the good that can be done when responsible groups of ATV/OHV people get together.
This group shows the positive side of ATV/OHV riders and the good that can be done when like minded people band together to make a difference.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Shiloh Ridge ATV Riding Area
Shiloh Ridge is located in East Texas and this park offers a variety of ATV riding challenges no matter what your skill level is. There are mud hazards, big water puddles, hill climbing and for the less extreme ATV rider, some really great scenic ATV trail riding.
There are plenty of primitive camping sites for you to stop your ATV at if you want to call it a day and continue exploring in the morning. The hills particularly are a good challenge for the experienced ATV rider. Some of the mud holes are fairly large so make sure you have a buddy with a tow and winch with you, just in case. A GPS mounted on your ATV would be a good idea too. You most definitely need a map to ride these trails and you can download a map of Shiloh Ridge here.
Shiloh Ridge is open year around except in inclimate weather. Make sure to call ahead first and make sure the Area will be open for ATV riders.
Shiloh Ridge isn't a large place to ride your ATV, but it has as many if not more challenges than ATV areas twice its size. Bring your ATV buddies, pack your gear, and come check out Shiloh Ridge for a lot of ATV riding challenge in a little area.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Skoolz Out ATV Park
Skoolz Out ATV Park not only has a fun name, it is a fun place for riding your ATV.
Situated on just over 300 acres between Nacogdoches & Lufkin in Texas. You will find a diverse ride for your ATV here. A little over half the acreage is hilly and dry and the other half is mostly nice wooded areas to explore on your ATV keep your eyes open for wildlife including deer and coyotes.
Muddy trails lead to a number mud holes with a few being very challenging for you and your ATV to get out of. There is open land to ride your ATV on and if you're in the mood for fishing. Bring your license and tackle box and head on down to the Attoyac River, it can only be reached via ATV.
With the hills, muddy trails, mud holes, flat lands, and actual developed ATV trails, there is a little something for ATV riders of every experience level.
There are a number of ponds if you need to rinse the mud off, and a couple of ATV/MX tracks for just some riding fun. Next time you want a fun destination to ride your ATV, Skoolz Out!
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Sam Houston National Forest ATV Trails
The Sam Houston National Forest is located about 50 miles north of Houston, Texas. This is a large forest which covers over 160,000 acres of land.
There is great ATV riding weather nearly all year around in this area, the winters are mild and usually in the 50 degree range, and although the summers are hot, they are usually fairly dry. Since these ATV trails stay mostly dry, they aren't eroded and are very dense and natural to drive your ATV through. Only during deer hunting season are you and your ATV restricted to only certain areas for obvious safety reasons.
Within Sam Houston National Park, the Cagle Recreation Area located along the shores of Lake Conroe, has opened up 85 miles of ATV trails. You will sharing these with hikers, bikers, and horseback riders, so be on the alert when you're riding your ATV of the other types of traffic you will encounter.
ATV trails are called Multi-use trails in this Park and they are clearly marked. Never go trailblazing and make new trails, these trails are carefully made and closed in a specific manner to insure new growth heals the old trails while you are exploring new trails to insure Sam Houston National Park will have nice, densely foliaged trails for generations to come.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Wednesday, July 27, 2005
Grapevine Lake ATV Trails
Located right smack between Dallas and Fort Worth, Grapevine Lake offers a lot of ATV riding trails for exploring. The ATV trails surround a 7200 acre lake. The area around the lake is undeveloped and the trails around the lake are clearly marked and easy to follow. There are a lot of small hills and some steep grades, and a lot of mud to ride your ATV through. Even a week or so after a rain, the inner ATV trails around the lake will still be very muddy due to the thick forest that keeps the sun from shining on the forest floor. Although you should never ride your ATV alone, make sure that you have a friend with you just in case one of you gets stuck in the mud.
Be certain to wear your helmet, it's required, and also since you'll mostly be traveling narrowly cleared path with limbs sticking out here and there, make sure to wear chest protection, long sleeves and protect your legs. There is nothing fun about getting slapped in the chest or leg by a tree branch when you're riding your ATV.
Grapevine Lake has a beautiful view and the ATV trails are long and winding. Plan on spending an entire day there are so many to explore on your ATV. Like all Texas ATV trails, a permit is required and a helmet is required gear. Make sure you have both and you'll have a great time riding your ATV at Grapevne Lake.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Gator Run Park ATV Park
Located in Easton, Texas, Gator Run Park is a great place to ride your ATV. There are small admission fees, and this ATV park is open every day of the week from 7am to midnight. They offer primitive camping if you want to spend the night and there are shower facilities, rest rooms, pressure washer for ATV clean up, and a concession stand.
Now, let's talk about the ATV riding. This place is like candy for your ATV. There are over 5000 acres of terrain to ride your ATV through. You will find muddy trails, dry trails, sand pits, clay pits with hills and small springs and creeks. All are fun to ride around and through in your ATV. Be aware that the clay can really grab your tires if you're not technically skilled at maneuvering around it in your ATV, so make sure you have a friend handy that can pull you out if you run into a clay trap. Overcoming obstacles with skill is a lot of fun on an ATV, but always have a buddy with you just in case, never take on ATV trails alone. There are maps available as well, and mapping out your ride before you take on unfamiliar territory in your ATV is always smart.
The Park does require that you wear DOT approved helmets and you know the rest of your safety equipment isn't a bad idea to insure a good time on your next ATV ride.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Cococino National Forest ATV Riding
Cococino is a beautiful place and offers a lot to the beginning as well as the experienced ATV rider. Due to damage caused by irresponsible ATV and other OHV riders, many trails in this beautiful forest have been closed. There are many still open but they have some strict rules and regs for riding your ATV on them. Since you're already a responsible ATV rider, it shouldn't affect your good time in Cococino National Forest one bit.
The Forest Service requires that you have your ATV permit displayed in a prominent place on your ATV at all times, you have a spark muffler installed as fire is always a hazard in this area.
The Forest Service also asks that you use your good common sense and the guidelines set forth by Treadlightly, a nonprofit organization that teaches people to use their OHVs responsibly. They advise that when you cross one of the several small streams in Cococino, be sure to only cross where the trail crosses the stream this will help keep the integrity of the trail through the stream for other ATV riders.
Stay in the middle of the ATV trails to avoid widening them. On slick ATV trails, moderate the throttle and use the clutch to gain maximum traction with minimum wheel-spin. Pack out what you pack in. Carry a trash bag on your ATV and pick up litter left by others. After you ride, wash your ATV to avoid spreading noxious weeds the next time you ride. It sounds like a lot, but most of it is just common sense.
On the ATV trails that are open, you will be treated to turns and twists within the deeply forested area. Also small inclines and streams add to the fun of the ride. Cococino National Forest is a great ATV excursion.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Caring for your ATV helmet
Your ATV helmet is almost as precious of a piece of equipment as your ATV itself. Your ATV helmet should be DOT inspected and approved. But that's not all. There are some things you need to know about what to do with your ATV helmet when you're not riding that can make all the difference in the world in the quality of safety and use out of your ATV helmet.
A big no-no for ATV helmets is to never store them around gasoline or cleaning fluids. The fumes can cause a reaction in the resins and padding of your helmet and cause a breakdown of the fibers. This will cause much faster deterioration of your helmet.
Never place your helmet near any hot engine parts of your ATV or any place it could get heated up. The heat can corrupt the integrity of the padding in your helmet and if you have the unfortunate situation of being involved in an impact, your helmet will be useless to protect you.
Accidents happen, and your ATV helmet is good for only one impact. If you suffer an accident that involved your helmet taking any shock for you, best to replace the helmet now. There may be micro-scratches or breaks in the integrity of the helmet that are not even visible to the naked eye, but your helmet can no longer protect you as before. Then you do a routine maintenance check on your ATV and give it the once over, check your safety equipment too. You'll have a much safer ride on your ATV.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
ATV Riding in Angelina National Forest In Texas
Riding your ATV in Angelina National Forest is a great ride for you and your ATV. There is dense foliage, very natural, undeveloped trails, and numerous types of plant and animal life you will see on the fly.
The bad news is, because of damage to endangered species, unique plants, and the trails themselves mostly by unmanaged use, certain areas in Angelina National Forest are closed to ATV riders. The very good news is that the Forest Service is developing over 60 miles of ATV trails for your riding pleasure. The new trail system would include narrow pathways to keep the natural feel of the trails, and construction of bridges and crossings so less experienced ATV riders would be able to navigate safely throughout the trail system.
There are still some open areas, but you must use a map to navigate them and you are not allowed to take your ATV off the designated trails or into a trail that is closed. Closed ATV trails are marked by a sign, a closed gate, or a mound of dirt. Some ATV riders will go right over that mound of dirt to go explore but be aware this is a rule that is sternly enforced by the Forest Service.
There is no mud-bogging allowed and be aware you will be sharing these trails with hikers, bikers, and horseback riders. Just be aware of the other person, follow the signs and don't ruin your good time. There are no fees to ride your ATV in Angelina National Forest, and when the new trails are opened, they are going to be free to the ATV loving public as well.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Arizona ATV Riders
Arizona ATV Riders is a great group of folks that promote safety, the ideals put forth by treadlightly.org, and all while managing to have a good time riding their ATVs.
This ATV club rides in Arizona, Utah, Colorado, California, Mexico, and is open to new destinations for ATV riding. Both sport and utility ATVs are welcomed in this club.
When planning an ATV ride for their group they do give out information rating the difficulty of the ride so beginning ATV riders don't get in over their heads. This group is as big on safety for all ATV riders as they are passionate about riding their ATVs.
Most trail rides are done in loops so as much foliage and terrain as possible can be viewed. They recommend packing a lunch as most locales chosen for the ATV rides are rather remote locations and last all day.
New ATV owners/riders are welcome to join, but the AZ ATV Riders recommend that you attend rides that are rated according to your skill level (such as "easy" or "beginner") and complete an ATV rider safety class. Additionally, they ask that you let the RideMaster know before ride day that you might need some assistance, pointers, or even for somebody to take your ATV up or down a hill for you.
The Arizona ATV Riders are a great example of how great a responsible group of ATV riders can be when they get together.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Tuesday, July 26, 2005
Colorado Off Highway Vehicle Coalition
If you live in Colorado and you ride an ATV, you would be richly rewarded to look up the Colorado Off-Highway Vehicle Coalition (COHVCO). They work very hard to represent, assist, educate, and empower ATV/OHV recreational riders in the safe use of and protection the off highway riding areas throughout Colorado. COHVCO is an environmental organization that advocates and promotes the standards put forth by Treadlightly to help preserve the lands for the enjoyment of future ATV riders.
Such as how to navigate your ATV over muddy terrain so as not to impair the integrity of the land, leaving no trace of your ride, when to open up new trails to allow old trails to reclaim themselves so future generations of ATV riders will have just as wonderful of an exploration experience as you and your ATV have in the present.
COHVCO does a lot of volunteering and monetary donations to support legal efforts to protect ATV riding privileges in Colorado. They spend a lot of time of energy fighting unfair legislation that would deny ATV riders the right to ride.
Somewhere in all of this ATV/OHV activism, they find time to participate in road clean ups and trail rides. This is a great group that promotes safety, good riding practices, and community service.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Cedar Creek Mudcats ATV Club
If you live in the North East portion of Texas and you ride an ATV, you'll probably want to meet the Cedar Creed Mudcats ATV Club (CCM). This ATV club meets once a month, has a number of get togethers, and rides in the occasional parade.
This ATV club does charge nominal dues of $25, but it goes towards the further support of the ATV club. CCM is also a very socially conscious ATV club, that participates in the State's Adopt A Highway program four times a year.
They encourage safety and continuing education for all ATV riders. CCM also sets a good example for other ATV riders to follow by contributing to community projects. CCM is also striving to get the word out that all ATVers do not wreck lands, ignore private fence signs, and other activities that just seem to give ATV owners a bad name. CCM is looking to change that undeserved reputation by showing ATV riders can be environmentally conscious, safety conscious while riding their ATVs and still have a darn good time.
If you are in North East Texas, look this group up they are doing great things for ATV riders everywhere.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Colorado Quad Runners ATV Club
The Colorado Quad Runners is an ATV club that is not only made up of ATV riders, it also includes a variety of 4x4, Sport and Race quad riders. The ages of the group members range from 6 years old to 75 years of age. This group welcomes singles, couples and family riders from the Denver area, Colorado Springs, North West Colorado and all points between and beyond.
The Colorado Quad Runners is another great ATV group that supports the highest in safety and good trail riding ethics for ATV riders. They require that all State and Federal regulations be followed, helmet and eye protection is mandatory. A safe ATV ride is a good ATV ride.
For ATV and OHV fans that have a competitive streak, this club is helpful to get you started in racing, or offer support to current racers to further expand the sport. This club has members in all aspects of racing (Short Track, Super Cross & Motocross, Cross country, Hare Scrambles, Hill Climbs, and Drag Racing) and also offers Race Clinics with tips on gear, machine maintenance, riding and racing techniques and skills.
The Colorado Quad Runners is an ATV group that is working hard to further positive attitudes about ATVs and the fine people that ride them.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Kansas All-Terrain Vehicle Association (KATVA)
If you are new to ATV riding or you're an old hat at it and you live in Kansas, check out the KATVA. This great club was started way back in March 1987 with just 9 members who were concerned about the issues of ATV safety and the extreme bad press that the sport was getting due to people not following common sense and basic safety rules.
Now, in 2005 this fine ATV organization has grown into three chapters with over 300 members committed to land use issues, rider education and most of all safe ATV riding. One of the things KATVA did was to expand the riding area for recreational vehicles around Lake Perry, and turned an 18 acre ATV riding area into almost 200 acres complete with fences, bathroom facilities, and improved creek crossings and cleared and marked ATV trails.
In 1990, the KATVA signed a five-year lease on fifty-seven acres for a club riding area. As before, the members worked hard and improved this property and made it safe and fun for ATV riders. Fences were put up, trails were cleared and course trails were made. Additionally a playground for the kids, benches around a fire pit, tow vehicle parking, camp sites with electricity, and even a shelter house and bathroom facilities.
The children's ride area was built next to the adults area so the kids can have safe, supervised fun. The KATVA has always made ATV riding safety the number one priority of the club. They have two slogans "Protecting our right to ride" and "Family fun with safety number one." With their good community work and attention to safety they are certainly living up to both!
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Dunes and Trails ATV Club
Dunes and Trails ATV Club in Las Vegas is one of the older clubs in the world of ATV riding. Formed in 2000 to bring ATV and other recreational riders together for rides on deserts, dunes, and mountains of the west. This is a very friendly and active ATV group that rides quite a bit and all skill levels from the beginning ATV rider to the old pro are welcome to join.
The Dunes and Trails ATV Club meets once a month at 7:00pm on the 2nd Thursday of the month. There are two scheduled ATV rides every month except December.
This group generally has two kinds of one day rides : one of the ATV rides is situated in the local vicinity (great for the beginners), and the other is a one day ATV ride (within 1 1/2 hours travel time from Vegas). The other type of get together this club does is a weekend ATV ride. They drive up to 5 hours from Vegas (most often about 3 hours), camp overnight, and ride their ATVs both Saturday and Sunday. During the summer, rides are held in both Utah and central Nevada for the weekend rides.
Everyone is welcome to join Dunes and Trails ATV Club. They have a great monthly newsletter, written trip reports of all ATV rides, information and how to get involved in local land use issues, being a member of this club can get you discounts at some local ATV businesses,and great new people who love riding their ATVs as much as you do.
Dues are only $25 per family, good for 12 months from the date you join.
If you are in the Las Vegas area and want to join up with great ATV riders that do great things for the sport, check out Dunes and Trails ATV Club!
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Northern Colorado ATV Trail Riders Club
The first thing you see when you log onto the Northern Colorado Trail Riders (NCTR) Club is the saying, "We don't stop riding because we get old, we get old because we stop riding". A very true sentiment. This club is very active in getting the word out that all ATV riders and other recreational vehicle drivers are not out to wreck the land or destroy the environment.
While most of their members are motorcyclists, they have a good number of ATV fans in their ranks. During riding season, the NCTR hosts ATV/OHV rides to diverse destinations such as Southern Wyoming and eastern Utah. They also host rides across Colorado.
This group is heavily involved in building and improving trail riding for ATV/OHV riders in Northern Colorado. They work had to uphold the standards set forth by Treadlightly that have become the norm with responsible ATV/OHR riders such as if you bring it in with you - bring it out, do not ride on muddy ATV trails, make new trails periodically to allow old ATV trails to reclaim themselves.
This group is working hard to make sure the ATV and OHV riding opportunities stay available for all riders.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Outback Explorers ATV Club
Outback Explorers ATV Club meets regularly in Panaca Town Hall in Nevada. This club was established in 2003 to bring together those people who love to ride their ATVs and love to explore this great country that we live in.
This ATV club has day rides and weekend rides where you'll be taking a tent, or staying in your RV. Nevada has a lot of regulations and some people in the State Government are working to close all lands to ATV riders unless privately owned. This group much like other responsible ATV riding groups adopts the standards of treadlightly and just plain, good common sense for their riders.
This club does require that you sign a waiver of risk for all ATV club rides, understanding even though this is a group that promotes safety and education for all ATV/OHV riders, accidents can happen.
A lot of ATV Clubs are starting to band together to promote the positive side of ATV/OHR riding, such as road clean ups, rescue operations, and land patrolling. Very few ATV riders are the irresponsible folks that leave gates open, knock down fences, and wreck the trails with unwarranted abandon. So many ATV riders are socially and environmentally conscious folks like this great ATV group who not only loves to ride they promote doing it safely.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Riding Your ATV At Barnwell Mountain Recreational Area
In Gilmer, Texas it seems more people ATVs than cars, and it has a great area to go ride your ATV called Barnwell Mountain. The Barnwell Mountain Recreational Area (BMRA) has 1800 acres of well marked ATV trails, parks, wildlife, on site food vendor, and even bathroom facilities located throughout the property.
The BMRA is open from 5pm Thursday through Sunday about 6pm. The BMRA requires helmets and safety equipment for all ATV riders. No double riders on your ATVs,and Tow Hooks, CB, and winch are recommended as there are some challenges along the trails.
The trails themselves are a treat, they are clearly marked and unless otherwise marked are two way. Be sure and get a map, there are trails for every skill level of ATV rider and you can look ahead and plan your ATV ride. The ATV trails are have dense foliage and hills in many areas and you will enjoy taking your ATV through these areas, this is what your ATV was made for! The BMRA has full camping facilities and if you want to go primitive it's only $8-$10 per night of if your idea of camping out includes someplace to plug in your hairdryer, you can get full electricity for $10-$15 per night.
The BMRA does ask that you keep your ATV on the marked trails and do not leave the trails. Trailblazing will get you and your ATV a free trip right off the property. The fees for riding your ATV are very reasonable at only $40 per year or if you only want to purchase for a long weekend, the fee is $15 for the first day and $5 each additional day. You can purchase a Day Use Membership for only $20.
Next time, you and your friends are looking for a getaway for some good ATV riding, getaway to Barnwell Mountain Recreational Area.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Monday, July 25, 2005
What Will A GPS Do For Me While Trail Riding With My ATV?
If you haven't looked into getting a GPS (Global Positioning System) for when you're riding your ATV, you're missing out! If you aren't familiar with GPS, it does exactly what its name implies, it tells you exactly where you and your ATV are at any given point on earth.
If you're curious how a GPS works, it's very simple. There are 30 GPS satellites, called NAVSTARs, in place and the oldest one was launched in 1989.
A GPS will calculate its position using the signal emitted by 3 or more of those satellites. The more satellites it is able to communicate with, the more accurate its calculation of your ATVs exact location.
Even the lowest quality GPS units have an accuracy of 300 to 500 meters real time which is more than enough for your ATV riding needs. When activated, the GPS will search and attempt communication with all the satellites it can contact. The lower priced units are nearly impossible to use inside of buildings (especially buildings with steel girders) or in densely wooded areas.
If you find a new trail when you're out riding your ATV, all you need to do is jot down coordinates or even better, if your model of GPS has a "save" feature, you're in luck, you'll never have to remember where a particular ATV trail begins or ends again.
One good bit of advice, spare no expense on your GPS mount for your ATV, and consider the placement in relation to tree branches and other outside forced that might hit your GPS and damage it. Even a low priced GPS will improve your ATV ride by letting you know where you are at all times, look into getting a GPS and a good mount for your ATV.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Using An ATV At Apache Sitgreaves National Forest
The Apache Sitgreaves National Forest area is actually two forests. The Sitgreaves has a little something for ATV riders of every preference. Desert terrain to eight cold-water lakes. The Apache National Forest ranges in elevation from 3,500 feet to nearly 11,500 feet and is named for the tribes that settled in this area. You will enjoy riding your ATV in this area as there is so much to see in this over two million acres of undeveloped area.
In order to ride these fantastic ATV trails, you need to make sure you have your ATV sticker prominently displayed on your ATV and do a little pre-ride inspection and you and your ATV are off! There are hundreds of clearly marked ATV trails and while going trailblazing in your ATV is not encouraged, it is legal if no damaged is done to plants or soils and a muffler/spark arrestor is in place on your ATV.Make sure your ATV has tow hooks and a winch are recommended as there are some challenges along these trails and there are a few low lying areas that can get your ATV stuck if you don't come prepared.
There are fees to ride your ATV in Apache and Sitgreaves National Forest, they are only $15 for an individual and $20 for a family. For a great time riding your ATV, you can't go wrong with an excursion to Apache Sitgreaves National Forest.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Red River ATV Park
If you are between Texas and Oklahoma and you're looking for a great wide open place to go ride your ATV, check out Red River ATV Park. They are open from 8 a.m. Saturday through sunset on Sunday and on all major holidays.
If you have a group that wants to ride, the ATV park may be opened by special request, which is great if you have a get together you want to plan - you can ride your ATVs in privacy. This park not only offers great ATV riding but for those who do not wish to ride (we can't imagine who), there is fishing, camping, hiking, swimming, and paintball.
After a day of ATV riding, camping with electric hook-ups ($15 per night), and showers with hot and cold water is available on a first-come, first-served basis. The park is open to all ATV, 4-wheel drive, dirt bike and other off-road vehicles.
This park has over 400 acres of family-owned and leased trails along the scenic Red River at the Texas and Oklahoma border, including 4 miles of river frontage. Easily accessible from the Dallas-Fort Worth and Oklahoma City areas. The park has a few good rules for everyone to follow when riding their ATVs and they do require safety equipment be worn at all times. You must stay on the paths, no littering, be sure to stay off the highway slopes,no alcohol or drugs allowed, respect the wildlife, use only deadwood for firewood. Also be aware other private property boarders the ATV trails in many places, be aware and stay on the marked trails.
This park smartly puts safety first and ensures a good time riding your ATVs for your entire family.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
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