This is a perfect state for trail riding that offers beautiful bodies of water and dense forests. Minnesota offers over a dozen trails to choose from. Most of the trails are located in the northern part of the state and cover every skill level from beginner to expert.
1. Appleton Area Recreational Park
This park that used to be a gravel pit, is now a 330-acre off-highway vehicle park with 20 miles of trails for riders of all skill levels. Appleton Area Recreational Park is a destination for riders throughout southwestern Minnesota and beyond, with tough and beginner-friendly ATV trails, a motocross practice track, rock climbs, and a water pit for getting muddy. ATVs are even permitted to travel on designated routes in Appleton. For more information click here.
2. Forest Rider Trail
The 100-mile Forest Riders Trail is exactly what it sounds like: a journey through some of Minnesota's most beautiful and secluded state forests. Two Inlets, Smoky Hills, Paul Bunyan, and White Earth, to be accurate. The track, which begins near Park Rapids, features a little piece of just about everything, from smoothly winding forest roads to more difficult terrain. Spend the night at one of the many surrounding lodges and motels, or camp in the Paul Bunyan and Two Inlets state forests. For more information click here.
3. Meeker County OHV Park
There are around 5 miles of ATV trails. On site, there are also 6 miles of motorcycle paths, a mud pit, and a youth training facility. The park is open all year, however inclement weather may force it to close for a short time. To utilize the trail, you'll need a Minnesota OHV Permit. ATVs, UTVs, motorcycles, dirt bikes, and SXS are the only vehicles allowed. The total range of vehicles should be 65 inches because there is an entry gate. There are a few steep hills, water crossings, and several berms and small jumps on the path, which is largely hard-packed with occasional loose dirt, sand, mud, and dust. For more information click here.