Off-Highway Vehicle users will find many opportunities for off-road enjoyment in the Eldorado National Forest.

In return for the privilege of operating your OHV on public lands, you assume considerable responsibilities. By handling your machine properly and using common sense, you can help make sure this area will remain beautiful and enjoyable to visit in the future.

Become familiar with OHV laws, restrictions, and closures. Respect private property, wildlife and other forest visitors. Always operate your vehicle in a safe and responsible manner and enjoy your visit to the Eldorado National Forest.

RIDING OPPORTUNITIES

The Eldorado National Forest offers a variety of trail riding experiences.In general off-highway vehicles can operate on any designated road or trail as long as it is dry enough to not be damaged and is not in a closed area. Most of the forest roads are out and back rides. Some areas have enough interconnected roads to make an enjoyable experience. The links below highlight recommended OHV opportunities, including the three excellent trail systems on the forest.

• ELKINS FLAT OHV ROUTES - A popular motorcycle trail system off of the North South road.
• GOLD NOTE TRAILS SYSTEM - One of two trail systems off the North South road. Accommodates both motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles.
• RUBICON OHV TRAIL - For four-wheeling recreation, the Rubicon OHV trail is known around the world as one of the best in the United States.
• ROCK CREEK TRAIL SYSTEM - Our trail system in the Georgetown area, south of Wentworth Springs Road. Mostly motorcycle trails with some ATV, bicycle, and hiking trails. For more information call (530) 333-4312). Detailed trail map available for sale. Web page to be built this spring.

"MULTIPLE USE"

Sharing Trails - Many people with different interests may be enjoying an area at the same time. Trail and camping courtesy are essential for everyone to have an enjoyable experience. Be a good neighbor and extend the same courtesy and consideration to those around you as you expect from them.

• Motorcycles Yield to All
• Bicycles Yield to Equestrians and Hikers
• Hikers Yield to Equestrians

RANGE USE

Remember that you share these trails with others, including wildlife and livestock. While operating your OHV, be sensitive to the life sustaining needs of wildlife and livestock.

• Range flyer (pdf)

RED STICKER OPEN RIDING SCHEDULE

The Rock Creek/ Mace Mill area and Barrett Lake are the only Red Sticker restricted riding areas on the Eldorado National Forest. The open riding season for red stickered bikes is now year-round for both areas. Riders still need to comply with other restrictions, such as; seasonal deer and wet weather closures if they apply. For other areas in California check out the California State Parks web site.

ORGANIZED EVENTS

The use of National Forest lands for organized recreation events, such as enduros, poker runs, and rallies, requires a Special Use Permit. Contact the District Ranger responsible for the administration of the proposed area for details and requirements. Phone numbers can be obtained from the Contact page.

LOW IMPACT CAMPING

Do your part in helping to preserve the natural setting and quality of your favorite forest areas by practicing low impact camping techniques.

For more information about outdoor ethics, visit the Leave No Trace, Inc. website.

FIRE SAFETY

Dry grass can ignite at about 600 degrees Fahrenheit. The temperature of an exhaust pipe and manifold is about 1000 degrees Fahrenheit. These conditions make vehicles potential fire starters. Stay off vegetation and make sure your vehicle is equipped with a functioning, U.S. Forest Service approved spark arrestor and exhaust system. One stray spark can ignite tinder dry brush and grass. For more information on campfire permits and safe campfires view the Campfire Permit page.