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Friday, March 17, 2006
ATV Riding in Wyoming
Home to many still active Cowboys and Native Americans, Wyoming is a state that has a very rich and varied history, which is very evident to all those who are passing through. The state is home to a large variety of people and it is also home to a huge assortment of nature, wildlife and excellent ATV trails. The terrain that Wyoming has to offer varies from expansive forests full of pine to colossal mountains that reach into the sky. This diversity is what makes Wyoming a great place for ATVing, as well as other sports and activities, such as skiing and snowmobiling. Whether you are an experienced ATV rider looking for a challenge among the rocky terrain, or a beginner who just wants to romp through a simple forest trail, Wyoming has something for you.
Like most states, Wyoming has certain simple rules and regulations that you must follow while riding your ATV in the area. First of all, in order to ride an ATV in Wyoming, you must have your vehicle registered with the state's Recreation Management Agency. You will be charged a small fee for this registration, and the fee varies from county to county, but it is normally a very small fee. You cannot ride an ATV that weighs more than 900 pounds while in Wyoming, and your ATV cannot be longer than 50 inches.
There are no minimum age requirements for ATV riding in Wyoming, but it is required that all children under the age of 18 must wear a proper helmet that was purchased after 12/31/03 to insure maximum safety. Have fun riding your ATV in Wyoming!
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Riding Within A Working Forest in Washington State
For the serious ATV fan, Capitol State Forest is the biggest DNR managed land area in Washington State. There are a total of 91,650 acres of what is called "working forest" under their watch. The DNR very solemnly optimizes all aspects of this trust. In order to make conditions nearly perfect for ATVers and other OHVers all roads in the Yacolt Burn State Forest and Jones Creek trail area are closed for ATV/OHV use and will reopen, this year, May 1.
This is to maintain trails, and to prevent erosion. Much of the under soil in the area is clay and during winter rains the under soil cannot absorb the total waterfall. If trails were left open for ATV use they would soon be rutted beyond safe use levels, and water runoff would rut them further. The DNR would be forced to close some of them permanently. Also, at this time the DNR and volunteer groups, including ATV groups and clubs sign up to do trail work, and work on some of the facilities provided, such as picnic and camp areas. This makes a great time for all when the trails reopen.
For any ATVer who wants to hike the area and get the lay of the land in off-season, the park is open for non-ATV/ORV use. Any ungated forest road is open to the public. This is really a nice way to set up trips to the forest. An ATVer can plan the total ride by checking length, elevation, stops, and what might be needed to be brought along in season.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
ATVing in Wisconsin
If you are like the majority of people in the U.S, the mention of the state of Wisconsin probably brings cheese to mind. Though the state is in fact well known for it's large manufacturing of cheese, Wisconsin has many other things to offer, such as great ATV trails. Wisconsin is home to a large array of land that is ripe of ATVing, and the state is home to an abundant amount of ATV trails and riding areas. Riding an ATV in Wisconsin is very fun, and there are many chances to spot wildlife in the state. There are all sorts of forest areas to ride your ATV on within the state, and there are many lakes and streams in the state as well. The many trails in Wisconsin offer riding opportunities for both experienced and beginning riders, so ATV enthusiasts of all skill levels will be able to have some fun.
If you want to ride your ATV in Wisconsin, you will have to register it with the state's Motor Vehicle Registration agency. Registration is easy, but there is a small fee. The state has regulations on the width and weight of your ATV, and you cannot ride an ATV that weighs over 900 pounds or that is wider than 48 inches. The minimum ATV riding age in Wisconsin is 12 years old. All children under the age of 16 must ride while supervised by a parent, and all persons under the age of 18 are required to wear a proper safety helmet. All helmets must have been purchased after 12/31/03 to guarantee that they are still safe and operable. All riders under the age of 18 must also have a Safety Certificate in order to ride.
Have fun riding your ATV in Wisconsin.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
West Virginia ATVing
Established as a state in 1863, West Virginia is full of great people, abundant wildlife, and tons of great ATV trails. The landscapes and terrain that are contained within West Virginia are very diverse, from hilly mountainous regions to more flat and forest ridden, to large fields of crops and grass. While you in West Virginia you will have the choice between a large assortment of ATV trails. You will be able to ride your ATV on the hilly and more challenging aspects of the state, or you could ride through some of West Virginia's less intimidating forests and flat plains. Whichever it is you prefer, you will be able to ride your ATV on many trails of both persuasions. The very hilly and mountainous regions are recommended for more experienced ATV enthusiasts, while the flat forest areas can be travelled on by riders of all skill levels. One of the best places to ride your ATV in West Virginia is the Hatfield-McCoy trails. Know as "Trails Heaven", the Hatfield-McCoy trails are home to over 500 great ATV trails that span across the state's varied terrain.
There is no minimum age for ATV riding in West Virginia, and you do not need to be registered with any agencies to ride your vehicle in the state, though some trails, such as the Hatfield-McCoy trail system, do require that you obtain a riding permit from them before you ride. There is no restriction as to how big your ATV can be in the state, and there is also no minimum age for ATV riding. Have fun riding your ATV in West Virginia.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Washington State - ATV Gem
Horn Rapids ORV Sports Park is the best-kept secret jewel for the ATV driver in southeast Washington State. This is a 300-acre park, but there is a lot packed together into the space. There are: open trails, 4X4 tracks, an MX track, ATV track, a sand strip, and peewee trail. There is an RV camp area, restroom areas - one with showers, picnic shelters, an airfield for remote controlled planes, and leased areas for go-karts, and also sprint boat racing.
This is a wonderful place for local ATVers to spend time during the week, after work or during the day. The park is open to the public at no cost Monday through Wednesday, and Saturdays and Sundays when no ORV events are scheduled. Horn Rapids Park is closed on city holidays, Thursdays and Fridays all year. This attests to the level of care shown for the track conditions since Thursdays and Fridays are track maintenance days.
This year there are several events scheduled of ATVer interest. May 21, 2006 is ATV only Grand Prix, and May 22 is ATV only Motocross. June 24-25, 2006 is ATV only National MX. This is a very well taken care of area for the whole family any time of the year, and ATVers in southeast Washington have one great place to ride.
Though use of the Park is free during the week, most events are ticketed. Ticket information and Park rules and regulations may be found with city of Richland parks department. They love to hear from ATVers.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Washington ATVing
Perhaps known best mainly for Seattle, the state of Washington has much more to offer than their biggest city. Washington is a large state with a huge amount of variety, which makes it a great place to go ATVing. Home to beautiful forests, big mountains, plenty of wildlife and countless lakes and streams, Washington is a great place to go if you are looking to connect with mother nature, or if you just want to have a lot of fun with your ATV.
The varied landscape that the state contains is perfect for ATV enthusiasts who enjoy a lot of options, and it also means that there are trails and riding areas for ATV enthusiasts of all skill levels. If you want to splash your ATV through a muddy forest trail or ride on a big rocky mountain, Washington in the place to go.
In order to ride your ATV in Washington you must first register it with the state's Motor Vehicle Registration Agency. Registering your ATV is simple and it does not cost much money. The fee charged varies from county to county, but it is worth it to be able to ride in Washington. Washington has very little rules and regulations on ATVing, so you more or less get free reign in the state to a certain degree. There is no minimum riding age, no restrictions on the width and weight of your ATV, and a MV Operator's License is not required. However, while this means that you will be able to ride an ATV that is too big for other states, it does not mean that you should throw all caution out the proverbial window. Be safe while riding your ATV in Washington, and have fun.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Thursday, March 16, 2006
ATVing in Vermont: Home to Variety
People from all over the world come to Vermont to ski and snowmobile in the winter, but not many folks annually embrace the state's many splendid ATV trails and riding areas. Vermont is home to a varied amount of beautiful terrain, from thick lush forests and bright green grass to breathtaking mountain views. Due to this varied terrain, ATV enthusiasts have a large variety of ATV trails to choose from while in Vermont, and there are trails available for those of all skill levels, from beginning riders to more experienced ones. In Vermont, you could ride your ATV on the rocky terrain of a mountain and then brush through a nice muddy forest trail all in one day. This great variety is what makes Vermont such a great place to ride an ATV, and the state is sure to have something to offer to just about every ATV enthusiast.
To ride your ATV in Vermont, you must register it with the state's Motor Vehicle Registration Agency, which requires a small fee. However, you only need to register your ATV if you will be riding on public land. Vermont does not require you to be registered on private land, so if you know someone who has some ATV friendly private property you won't have to pay the fee. The minimum legal ATV riding age in Vermont is 12 years old. All persons under the age of 18 who are riding an ATV in Vermont must have a safety certificate and must be supervised at all times.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Thurston County ORV Park, Can an ATV Group Takeover?
For ATV residents of Thurston County, Thurston County ORV Park was a local treat. It was opened in 1979 and located on the north edge of capitol State Forest, on highway 8. This was a 155-acre site. Thurston had 5 miles of trail, ATV and OHV, a racetrack and grandstands, camping area and a keeper's home onsite. There were organized ride events throughout the season.
So what changed Thurston into "had" place and not a 'has" place? Thurston County ORV Park closed down in 2002 due to budget problems the county was facing. This is a sad fate for such a well-put together place for ATV use. The park is still there, but is closed. Could there possibly be a way that local ATV groups could reopen this park? Would any ATV group care to undertake this quest? It would mean so much to all users if this could be happen. Sometimes it is just a matter of talking to the local town and county boards. Even if this is county land, it could be pointed out that Thurston could be a ongoing concern with responsible stewardship by ATVers, and if it were open there could be revenue gained from a site just sitting there.
Maybe there is something in the works as this is written, but if it still seems to be just sitting empty, maybe an enterprising, concerned ATV group could come forward and look into the viability of bringing Thurston back to the ATV world.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Thank You to the ATV Enthusiast
Least anyone forgets that there is more to ATV than just having fun and here is some interesting factoids. The figures used here are representative statistics of 15 counties in Arizona. The figures are 2004-2005 totals; and surely have grown in the past few years. The statistics are an average.
Of the entire total county's population, 30% of the people living there have OHVs, 34% of these are ATVs. The total monies that these OHV/ATVers created for the state of Arizona were a staggering 186.43 million dollars. Basically, this means, all the money you spend on gas and fuel, buying groceries, or eating in restaurants, fees for trails, fees for events, souvenirs and such went into this total. This in turn created full and part-time jobs, wages, and tax revenues.
Also, here is a list of what matters the most to ATV users: enjoying an area's natural beauty, respecting private property, respecting the environment, respecting other users, ease in accessing the ATV area, enjoying a closeness with family members on an ATV trek, cleanliness of the ATV area visited, and enjoying the solitude of an ATV area.
No one is standing at a trail head with a smile and a decal for all you do to help the economy, no one is standing at the entrance of a state or national park to shake your hand, but, at the back of it all, everyone involved with making your ATV experience great knows how very key you ATVers are in the "big picture."So, here's to you, thank you! The next time you're going out on an ATV run, remember, we think you're the greatest!
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Tahuya State Forest by ATV
Tahuya State Forest is overflowing with ATV excitement. There are enough trails and variety for any ATV skill level. Tahuya is a blend of public and private properties, so you might run into an occasional "NO TRESSPASSING" sign, but for the most part, the area is so immense there is no reason to feel stymied by them. Just ride in another direction.
This is an area for the mud loving ATV group! The Tahuya has a temperate rainforest climate. The best time of year for ATV mud runs is during the rainy season. Because the natural landscape was created by receding glaciers long ago, there are deposits of glacial till and exposed gravel throughout the area. In the summer this causes very dusty conditions and rather nasty traction, but the mud is great when it rains!
The Park is over 23,000 acres and has something for everyone. Any paved roads are county roads, so be sure you're street legal if you must use them. Pick up a map at a ranger station before you start out, all the trails marked on the site maps are ATV / OHV useable. There are unmarked roads are for hikers and bicyclists, who may also come darting out of the underbrush at you, so be aware of its multiple use status. This is a huge place to take in and there are campsites available, so plan to spend some time here with all your ATV equipment, and ATV buddies. Tahuya is open all year during daylight hours. There are no ATV usage fees, but always be expecting that to change at any time in the future so be sure to call before you haul- it's the times we live in.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Reiter Pit ATV Trails
Near Gold Bar, Washington, Reiter Pit has ATV trails for the serious ATV sport person. It's big enough to ride through without seemingly finding the end. It's open all year, and is not yet charging any fees. Park where your car and haul are out of the way, just be space respectful for anyone else who may show up. Oh, make sure your gear includes a helmet; this could be a rough ride.
Reiter Pit is an area made up of round rock and gravel. Most of the trails reflect this. There are forested areas, but mostly you'll be seeing the forest through the trail, since the trails don't get into too much tree area. Because of all the hard landscape, it is advisable to take children to 'softer" ATV parks. This might be a perfect place for teens to sharpen driving skills. They can't be too rough without the trail being rough right back. Make sure to pack basic first aid supplies, bandages and such things. Also, pack plenty of water or sports style drink, it's easy to get dehydrated without knowing it, even the "grown up" kids do it.
This ATV area is a nice weekend trip. It is an entertaining spot for most ATV levels above beginner. The one basic rule the park as is: keep ATV/ORVs off the pavement, but, with all the rock around, what ATVer wants to ride on pavement. Keep an ATV journal, and be sure you make room in your plans to write up an ATV trip to Reiter Pit.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Rating ATV Trails
What would ATV trail riding be without a system to grade trails difficulty or ease? In some cases or on some trails there are posted signs stating: easy, more difficult, most difficult. These may be called out on trail maps. This is not only for the ATV experience one can gain by challenging yourself to more and more difficult rides, but also to help make wise choices for younger ATV family members as to what trails they should attempt. An inexperienced ATV driver should work through the difficulty levels and by the time they reach the most difficult level their skills should take them into off road areas which may not be posted at all.
The Easy Trail designation means the ATV driver is looking at finding grades of less than 10%. These are places where ATV drivers will find relatively smooth and easy surfaces with little traction problems. The trails are an average of 24 inches wide at the widest point. Even ATV drivers with limited skills or ATV driving knowledge should be able to navigate these trails.
A More Difficult trail post usually means the grade pitch can rise up to 30%, and on average, they will vary from 10% to 15%. There may be some rough patches an ATV driver will encounter. The ATV trail will be less than 24 inches in most places, but not less than 12 inches over all. This is a learning trail and ATV skills can be developed here.
The Most Difficult trail posting designation is for ATV trails that have pitches grades at over 30% throughout, with grades normally 15% to 20%. Most of the trail surface will be rough, and the ATV trail will by and large be 12 inches wide. This type of ATV trail does require a high degree of skill to navigate, and is a challenge to the ATV driver throughout the run. Overall, ATVers should heed posted signs for their safety and enjoyment.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Wednesday, March 15, 2006
ATVing at Moses Lake
Just about an hour outside Beverly Dunes is the second dune site in Washington where ATVer can have a great time. This is an area of 3,000 acres, 2,000 acres of which is open to all OHV.
Moses Lake Dunes has somewhat similar sand to the dunes in Beverly, but it is finer due to ash fall from the Mt St Helene's eruption in the '80s. This makes the sand dustier, so expect to come home with sand in your "nooks and crannies." Because the wind has an eastward flow the dunes flow this way also. Be aware of their lay before starting out on a run, there are 20-foot drops in areas. Also, be aware of any rules and regulations of the area before starting. The Moses Lake Sheriff Department can clue you in on any updates or changes. As with Beverly Dunes, there is a rule that says all ATVs/OHVs need to have a flag on their antenna for visibility. Take care watching for any other ATVer in your riding area; blowing sand does mess with visibility.
Besides all the variety of ATV experiences here, the gem of surprise is the Moses Lake itself. You might want to double your daytrip time and take your ATV and Jet Ski along. No Jet Ski, no problem, just spend some time swimming. There is boating allowed, too. This is a nice place for the water nuts in the family. Those who want to ATV can spend the weekend on the dunes; those who love the water can spend the weekend on the lake. The perfect ATV combination, you can swim off the sand every evening.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
ATV Mini Me's
Perhaps the easiest way to be a responsible ATV owner/operator is to be brought up as one. Since ATVs are relatively new on the scene, it is safe to say most older ATV owner/operators have brought to the ride things they learned driving other vehicles in diverse conditions. In addition to these habits of driving, many ATVers have not had extensive practice driving "in the wild", as it were. ATV running is not basic street driving. It's a whole new world out there in the woods, or in the sand.
To make sure "the sins of the father are not visited -you get the drift"; talk with the knowledgeable sales reps at Raceway and find out good pointers and tips on driving and generally handling ATVs.
Investing in some safety lessons for your child is a great way to help them learn to ride safely and minimize the risk of accidents. A perfect way to do this would be to invest in a small, kid sized ATV. That is, if you have kids. If you aren't married or have kids, this is a great time to become a Big Brother or Sister and invest some money and quality time in them with an ATV. This way you could learn along with your charge.
Some of the essentials to know about ATVs would be: knowing what and where are all the moving parts on an ATV, what are the minimum tools necessary to have when you're out riding, what can the ATV owner safely fix or change on an ATV, how does the ATV handle under differing conditions, what is the balance and rollover points on you ATV, and safety, safety, safety.
Children ultimately learn by seeing and doing. If they watch you as a responsible ATV owner/operator they will grow up to be responsible, too.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Homegrown ATV Trails
There are ATV trails near and far; but for those ATVers who seem to find them more far most of the time, here is a suggestion. There are times when you just have to take the shovel by the handle. If you love to run ATVs, the outdoors, and doing it all close to home, you must become proactive.
If you are an ATVer lucky enough to live close to a county, state, national, or possibly private area where there are some limited trails, you could always write letters, emails, or make phone calls to give voice to your opinion trails should be expanded. You could form an ATV group who regularly rides these areas and become involved in finding out how they were created and how they are maintained. Sometimes the easiest way to do this is to talk with other ATVers and people who work at the sites, if any.
The best way for an ATV group to expand on their local ATV riding venues is to see the need, which, when you're running ATVs is very simple. Then, go to the closest local official or official office and volunteer, as a group, to help fill this need. There are times when money for supplies is available, when the labor is supplied. As an ATV group you might have the chance to help clear trails, build picnic shelters, or children's play areas. ATVers might help hang signs, do clean up details, maybe become involved in public speaking for ATV education. As an avid ATVer, whatever you choose to do to expand your local trail area will only make your future rides there sweeter.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Green Mountain State Forest for ATV
Green Mountain State Forest is a nice weekend ride for ATVers who live close by. This would mean any ATV families in or around Seattle. There is a campground here for weekend camping, so any ATV family or individual can make the most of your riding time. This is a fun time for summer vacations when kids are out of school. The area is open all year, but restricted to ATV and other vehicle use to June 1 through October 15. This is for trail maintenance purpose, which any ATVer will understand as necessary for optimum ATV enjoyment.
Green Mountain has a group of shorter trails with very nice ascents and descents - there are areas with sharp, but short elevation levels. The area is well marked for everyone's benefit, ATV user and all others, which includes bikes, hikers, and horseback riders. This is why the park in open for ATV uses on weekends; these other groups are there during the week.
There are gravel roads and dirt paths. The views are really fun to come up on. There is Seattle and the Cascades on one side, and off on another stretch you can see Hood Canal and the Olympics. The trails drift back and forth through the camp area so you are always close to your base. Stop at the top for a view and some lunch. Green Mountain Park has a lot going for it; All in all, a very favorable spot to take an ATV out for a spin.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Government and the ATV
At first glance, you might not think government bodies (i.e. Federal, state, and various police agencies) could be an ATVers best friend, but if given the chance, they could become just that. After ATV equipment, the prerequisite to fun on an ATV is a place to ride. Unless you are personally related to someone who has lots of open land they are willing to let you tear around on, you need to find a place.
The first and fastest way for a new ATV driver or even an old hand driver to find the closest open spaces is to go to your computer and do a search. Search for federal, national, state or county parks. Search by state for those places closest to you, or search in the state where you would like to take an ATV vacation. Once you find a website - most usually they will be .gov, or .org sites, you can find very important information in ATV trip planning.
You should find seasonal open/close information, daily open information, access road information, conditions, and if there are camps, picnic areas, amenities, and other users along with ATVers. You can also find addresses and phone numbers for emergencies. It is advisable, in this cell phone age, to keep emergency police, or ranger phone numbers in your phone for the duration of your ATV drive, in the off chance a real emergency occurs. There are more emergencies that can happen in the wilderness to ATVs besides trail accidents. Some people forget to take their daily medications along, or some ATVers are enthusiastic, but pregnant - so emergency numbers are a must.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Gifford Pinchot National Forest and ATV Use
There are many trails throughout this park, many of which have been reconditioned for ATV use. The main ATV and bike trails are noted on maps available through the district office. Even though there may be out-of-the-way trails in view on a ride, do not wander off the mapped trails, since these others are not for motorized use. Gifford Pinchot has some higher elevations within it, and therefore snow remains longer here than in other parks. There are times when snow is visible in patches even in late summer.
An ATV drive here is challenging because after storms there may be tree falls even though the trails had been cleared from the previous winter. The beauty of the park will lull you into not keeping a close eye on your route, but an alert ATV driver will be prepared for all eventualities. Make sure, if you are in charge of planning you ATV outing, you pick the trails best suited to the least skilled in your group. It will make a nicer time for everyone.
These are the trails available to ATV use: Valley Trail number 270, north of Blue Lake Trailhead, Jump-Off Trail, number 271A, Blue Lake Ridge Trail, number 271, Valley Trail, number 270, and Blue Lake Area. These make up to about 16 to 17 miles of ATV trail. These trails are also used by motorcycles, bicycles, hikers, and horses, so be aware. As in other state and national parks, the trails are closed to motorized use during the winter season. Here this is December 1 through April 1, but after winter can an ATV Spring be far behind?
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Tuesday, March 14, 2006
Evans Creek ATV Ride
An interesting ATV ride can be had at Evans Creek in the Washington Cascades area. Evans Creek is located in Mt Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, near the town of Wilkeson. Closed only in winter, it has 20 miles of trail. There are picnic areas and a 26 unit primitive campground with shelter.
For ATV groups into nature and scenic beauty, this is an ideal place for ATV rides featuring stately Mt Rainier. Mt Rainier National Park in northwest of Evans Creek and there are many photo opportunities on ATV drives throughout. This is a rather popular ATV/ORV riding area and is hectic unless you travel out further into the forest you may run into quite the crowd on weekends and holidays. Take time to plan some weekday outings here.
If you are an ATVer who goes into the national areas on a weekly basis, you may want to look into buying an annual park pass. Subject to being increased, it is currently $30, but will save you the mandatory $5 daily parking fee. So, for any ATVer who is out a lot, this is paid for in six day's worth of ATV outings. This area is about 1 to 2 hours from Seattle depending on which side of the city you live, and is great for ATVers in this region.
Evans Creek is a fine area for repeated ATV trips. It's close, yet far enough way to get the real feel of the forest primeval. A great place for photos with scenic backdrops, there is nothing nicer than a picture of your favorite ATV ride with a mountain as a backdrop.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
DNR Allowing Winter ATV Use?
The Washington State DNR closes some trails to ATV use in the winter to help keep trails in optimum usage shape for the three seasons it has them open. However, there is talk of keeping part of the Jones Creek Trail open, as a test for all year ATV use. Normally, Jones Creek would be closed to ATV/ ORV use from December 1 through April 30th. The projected test would take place on two weekends, one in February and one in March, to check any actual wear to the trails they would receive by ATVs/ ORVs during typical winter conditions.
The DNR is being proactive in helping to create maximized forest usage for an avid ATV/ORV crowd. They believe in responsible forest stewardship, trying to balance recreational enjoyment while protecting the environment, now and for the future. They are visionary in trying to work with ATV groups and ORV groups to discover and expand appropriate year round opportunities.
The DNR wants exclusivity in collecting any data that shows actual conditions of ATV/ORV usage. They do not want to hide anything, but point out all that can happen to the environment in all cases. They are searching for imaginative solutions from all areas to test what they feel they have done to solidify trails against all weather conditions, and where more is needed to be done. In this case, any ATVer could come to them and discuss trail conditions in the winter.
Perhaps the most the DNR is reaching for is a respectful relationship between them and the ATV/ORV public. There is a great demand for winter use trails throughout the DNR system, and this shows they are trying to meet the ATV/ORV enthusiast half way and more.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Capitol State Forest ATV Overview
As mentioned, Capitol State has the largest area under DNR management in Washington State, which is great news for ATVers. The park is a true forest with Douglas fir, Western Hemlock, Red Alder and Cedar dominating the landscape with strong undergrowths of fern plants. All vehicles, including ATVs are allowed on forest management roads year round - unless posted. If posted HEED the signs.
There are 7 campgrounds with a total of 96 campsites located throughout the park. Facilities are considered primitive and open only April 1 through October 31. The North of the park is the ATV/ORV use area. There are 89 miles of road and trail here. These are closed November 1 through March 31 for winter maintenance.
Here is a trail overview: Rock Candy East and Rock Candy West are 2.25 miles each, North Rim Trail is 25 miles, Mt Molly Porter is 21 miles, Middle Waddell Loop is 8 miles, Lokkie trail is 8 miles, Mt Molly Loop is 7.7 miles long. The numbered trails are: 51, .4 miles, 50, 2 miles, 40, 5 miles, 30, 4.5 miles and 20, 2 miles long.
In addition to ATV and riding trails there is so much more for an ATVer to do in the park. Here are various things going on at any given tie of the year: hunting (turkey, bear, deer, elk, and grouse), fishing, target shooting, sightseeing, hang gliding, firewood gathering, and berry and mushroom picking. There are also six mountain bike, six motor and five horse events planned, with one mountain run rounding out the year. For the volunteer in you, the ATV/ORV groups have volunteered a total of 4559 hours to help keep Capitol State Forest the great place it is.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Beverly Dunes ATV Site
Beverly Dunes ATV Site is located about 1 mile due east of Beverly, Washington, near the Columbia River. Currently, there is no use fee to ATV here. It is open for year-round ATV use; though in the winter do expect to see some snow once in awhile. The main rule the Beverly Dunes has is all ATVs/OHVs must have an antenna flag for their visibility.
Beverly Dunes has a nice blend of topography that will entertain an ATVer for a full day's outing; it not a huge area, but very nice to run. The Dunes are roughly 300 hundred acres in total. Their layout is 1 to 2 miles long by 1/2 mile wide. They are deceptive in their appearance. There are trails throughout the Dunes, with small bowls scattered through them. These bowls are great to jump, but be aware of the dangers of coming up and over a drop-off. To drive responsibly, an ATV family should just take a short run around the place to become familiar with the overall lay of the place.
Beverly Dunes has a succession of trails that ring the dune area, on the outside boundary overall. Here you will ride a bit of fence line, and then a river, which makes for very nice, peaceful scenery. If you want an ATV challenge, head for the center of the area to test your jumping and hill skills.
There is one special event that happens at the Dunes. The third Saturday in April has been a standing date for the Desert 100 Motorcycle Race. You can watch this from the vantage points of several bridges near the Dunes. You can always take your ATVs and spend the rest of the weekend chasing up and down the dunes.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
ATV Trails, Home Built or Not?
Many ATV drivers are in a hurry for an ATV experience, and do not take the time to research trails, but are all gung-ho to build a trail. This is acceptable when an ATVer owns a chunk of private property, but there are times when where you build is not exactly "private". When in doubt, call the DNR.
In Washington State, alone, there is approximately three million acres of DNR managed lands, which include: trusts of agricultural, forest, commercial, and current and future beneficiaries. These all together create more than 5.5 billion in revenue so that groups including ATVers do not have to pay excessively for the use of those areas open to the public, among other state projects. This is good for everyone.
Any ATVer or ATV group can contact the DNR and find useful information on trail building, and if the trail they want to build is, in fact, on public or private land. The DNR is working to identify as many traisl as they can find that may have been built on trust lands and how these trails can be brought into the general use system. They are not against any ATVer having a great time, or building trails, they just want everyone to optimize their efforts for a good time. There are over nine million users of recreational lands in Washington State each year. ATVers are an integral part of this figure. As an ATV promoter, please involve the DNR in your efforts when working on riding areas near you.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
ATV Rush - Sadie Creek
Sadie Creek Recreation Area can be found in Lyre River State Forest, and is a promising area for ATVer. It is considered part of the Olympic Peninsula region of Washington State. Sadie Creek is about 18 miles west of Port Angeles, and is accessed off logging road 3040. There are two major trails found here, a short loop and a long loop. The area is world renown for its beauty. A true wilderness area, there are views for the ATVer of the ocean and the mountains.
As for the ATV rides, the short loop is an 11-mile ride overall that climbs and drops in 200-foot increments. This loop is an average difficult loop for a good ATV rider, and one who is willing to learn a few more techniques. It borders Lyre River in places and be careful of power line towers or poles. The river bottom area is a nice place to take a break and stretch those ATV legs, maybe have a bite of food.
The long loop is 18 miles, but can be shortened by which access area you choose to start. The trail runs a bit through old growth forest, which is spectacular all on its own. This is considered a difficult trail and will challenge you to pull out all your ATV arsenal of skills. The climbs and drops on this loop go 1500 feet or more. Areas on some of the ridges give you views of panoramic proportion. If there is no mountain fog an ATVer could see Mt Baker, Vancouver Island, San Juan Islands, or Strait of Juan de Fuca.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Monday, March 13, 2006
Washington State is ATV Friendly
Any ATV group looking for ATV sites around which to plan outings, take a look at Washington State. Washington has a broad terrain spectrum from which an ATVer can choose to plot a course. They have several sand dune areas, much mountainous areas, and, for those just in love with the forest landscape, there is plenty there from which to pick to be surrounded by trees. Anyone who lives within a day of one of the many ATV sites, plan a weekend, or a day trip. If you live out of state, plan a three-day weekend, or even plan a week vacation in Washington State. Take in the ATV friendly national and State Parks.
Also, an ATVer has the choice of season there. Spring, summer, or fall are all great times to ATV there. There are even cooler times where a light dusting of snow can test your ATV mettle. The ATV runs are not as grueling as, say, a stark desert run, nor are they family unfriendly - in the sense that the landscape is dangerous due to the extremes in heat. Washington State has all the great places families want to be on an ATV, and it's a great place for younger family members to take some learning runs.
For anyone in the family who doesn't care to ATV the day away, there are a number of things to do. You can spend time in any number of towns taking in sites, you can camp, river raft, rapid shoot, fish, swim, hike, mountain bike, and so much more. Washington is an ATV family state.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
ATV, Dunes, and All Members of the Family
Not all ATV enthusiasts have all family members in sync with ATVing sand dunes. It is a dusty, dirty business, and frankly, sand is not all that a "girl thing." The nice thing about the sand dunes in Washington State is that they are centrally located in a place where there is a lot to do and see outside of the sand area. There are outdoorsy things available, like swimming, hiking, and picnicking. There are indoorsy things also.
The Ginkgo Museum and View Area at exit 136 off I-90 is one of them. This is free to the public and open from May to September. They have a good display of petrified woods. They also have a souvenir shop. Also close by is Ginkgo Nature Area. Here is an interpretive hiking trail system through a prehistoric lakebed. Open daily during daylight hours an ATV group could go and have some fun while the most sedate of the family takes in the natural history.
Frenchmen Springs Coulee at exit 143 is a dry falls left from an ancient flood. Here, daring members of the group can spend the day rock climbing and hiking, while others ATV over the dunes. Exit 143 will also access The Gorge. This is a natural amphitheater that you can hike around, and if you plan your ATV outing just right, you can take in a concert here. These are ticketed events and run through the summer into the fall. Quilomene Creek Sand Bar on the west bank of the Columbia has boating, swimming, and horseback riding. Being an ATV family means there's something for everyone!
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
ATV 40-60: Wenatchee Forest
At 40 miles by 140 miles the area within Wenatchee Forest is large enough for any ATV user. Even though 40% of the area is designated as true wilderness, there is still 60% open for multiple uses. The 40% is accessible by foot, for those hearty ATV souls who want a "Zen break" from all the trail riding. Sometimes the fast, grueling pace of some ATV driving needs a timeout period for some of us. The wilderness areas are so primitive there are no features or any roads available.
In the bulk of the area, 60%, you can find timber-harvesting going on, livestock grazing, woodcutting, camping, horseback riding, and all manner of ORV/ATVs spinning around. There are over 100 campgrounds, and various picnic sites throughout, from tent sites to places for camper trucks. There is, overall, at least a total of 13,000 possible campsites available, from free to fee.
Getting down to the nitty-gritty, there are about 2,500 miles of recreation trails for multiple users. This is an ATV wonderland. The wonderland is divided into six ranger districts overall, so be aware as you drive your ATV you cross over all areas and some may have lots of rangers out and some may not. This place is big enough for any ATV enthusiast to handle. A nice place to spend a week's vacation with the family, or, even better, set up a multiple ATV family outing. Everyone is sure to have a great time running ATVs and getting back to nature.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
ATV at Ahtanum
Ahtanum Multiple Use Area is a perfect place for all around ATV fun. Included within the park boundaries are Ahtanum Meadows and Ahtanum Camp. These are located on Middle Fork Road, across from one another. Ahtanum is a large enough area to fall under the Wenatchee National Forest, and Goat Rocks Wilderness, but is state managed. It is made up of public and state lands which border the Yakima Indian Reservation.
Ahtanum is wild enough in which an ATV user can become lost. The DNR has terrific maps that are color coded as to trail use. There are a number of users here including ATV users. There are surprising views of the Cascades around fantastic climbs, and a look at the eastern deserts through the foliage. You can even cross over into the Wenatachee on ATV if you'd like. The park is open all year, but in the winter season is only open to snowmobiles. Spring and summer is peak ATV/ORV riding time.
Of all the parks in Washington State, Ahtanum is the driest; it is advisable to carry some spare air filters on your ATV trip, nothing dramatic here, just keep them in the trunk of the car "in case." The rides here are as challenging as you want them; there is something for every ATV skill level, with a nice central base camp location. If you live close enough, this could be a place to go every weekend for the summer, honing ATV skills before pushing on to a challenge run, maybe even an ATV trip out of state.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
ATV Adopt a Trail - Has the Time Come?
Recently, the Pacific Northwest Four Wheel Drive Association and the DNR, Washington State has signed an Adopt-a-Trail agreement for the maintenance of an almost 2 mile stretch in the Sadie Creek trail area. This is an idea an ATVer can take to heart. Not based on individual users, this involves clubs and groups. An individual ATV user could form a group, or join an existing one, then see about adopting some of the trails they find most fun.
The DNR strives to optimize the ATV/ORV experience by keeping trails and roads well kept, but there are more trails than can be well maintained without the help of the public. This lets the ATV person have a part in the process from the creation of a trail to keeping it fun. Once you see what goes into a trail, you will want to do your best to keep it in tiptop shape. Following the safety and trail rules will become second nature as an adopt-a-trail partner.
This is a great learning opportunity for ATV families. Once an ATVer becomes involved in trail maintenance as a family, you can learn basic trail building techniques, water quality information, how hydrology works, weathering of trails in different landscapes, how timbering plays a part in forests, and how to maintain an area for the enjoyment of future ATV generations.
Adopting trails is a voluntary exercise. The DNR is thankful for all groups, including ATV groups who come forward to build and maintain trails. They see this as a validation of the commitment an individual will make to foster an ATV experience, now and in the future.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
ATV Friendly 7 Mile ORV Park
A great ATV trail area close to Spokane, Washington, 7 Mile ORV Park is nearly 600 acres of fun. There are several different ways to get there, watch for signs that say "7 Mile ORV Park," but generally, if you're on I-90, take Maple Street exit North, to Francis, turn West (right hand turn) - staying on Francis, turn left where indicated by sign, travel about three miles and watch for sign, turn where indicated onto gravel road. Travel about one more mile-voila! You are there.
Most of the ATV areas will be open riding, but there are some ATV trails running through many treed areas, so be careful, trees are such jumping fools! First they're off to the side, watching, and the next thing you know, they're practically climbing into the ATV with you. There are also scattered sand hills, some of them quite large. A seasonal creek is a fun spot. The place is a multi use, multi skill level. If you're with a group make sure everyone is well acquainted with the average skill level of the group before taking off on an ATV climb. There is nothing worse than knowing an accident could have been prevented if only the ATV driver were up to the challenge. Take kids into consideration, too. The park has so many places for everyone, why not take advantage of the area and spend some time helping train your kids on developing good ATV habits in some of the more open, gentler trails. They will love their ATV experiences with you.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
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