Motorcycle Off-Highway Trails, Off-highway motorcycle (OHM) riders have access to more than 750 miles of trails, which are included in this section. A brief description of the path and how to reach the trail management are provided below. It might be difficult to determine which sections of a route are appropriate for motorcyclists. OHMs with street licenses are permitted on some trails, but not OHMs that are not permitted to be registered with the Department of Transportation for usage on public roads. These OHMs are also known as limited-use off-highway motorbikes or dirt bikes.
Best Dirt Bike Trails & Tracks in Wisconsin
May You Ride Dirt Bikes On ATV Trails in Wisconsin is a well-liked state to travel to for dirt bike riding because of its location near the Great Lakes and tremendous geographic diversity. Off-roaders can find some thrilling trails through rocky or forested areas. When you add fishing and hunting to it, Wisconsin can be a very outdoor-focused destination. So, here are the top dirt bike tracks and trails in Wisconsin.
1.) Nemadji State Forest
This forest contains 100 miles of trails for OHV, ATV, and dirt bike enthusiasts and is situated along the Wisconsin-Minnesota border. In addition, 27 miles of single-track and only suitable for motorbikes and dirt bikes. Nemadji State Forest’s sinuous, tight-turning trails are sure to test you and make for enjoyable riding. The trail networks in this area extend outside the state forest, letting you ride farther on the Gandy Dancer Trail or the Matthew Lourey Trail as well. Additionally, hunting and fishing are both enjoyable activities, and dispersed camping is permitted.
2.) Bong State Recreation Area
In Kenosha County, Wisconsin, there is a 10-mile dirt bike trail called the Richard Bong State Recreational Area. Three dirt loops that travel through wetlands and prairies are available for riding. Probably the busiest and best-known dirt bike track in Wisconsin, this one is well-known nationwide.
More broadly, the 4,515-acre Bong State Recreation Area, which begins in the town of Brighton, is virtually a managed prairie. Great egrets, sandhill cranes, and other uncommon species can be found in a wildlife preserve where you can engage in a variety of outdoor activities like horseback riding, hunting, and fishing.
3.) Syracuse Mound ORV Area
The Syracuse Mound, Recreation ORV Area, has two designated dirt bike trails that span 250 acres and 8 kilometers of riding. The paths wind through the forest, and for added enjoyment, there is a supercross, peewee, and motocross course, as well as a sizable mud bog play area. Expect easy, muddy, and sandy trails with little ascent and a few quick routes. Syracuse Mound is located 15 miles south of Wisconsin Rapids; for information on hours of operation and regulations, visit their Facebook page.
4.) Pecatonica State Trail
The Pecatonica State Trail is located close to Calamine, one of Wisconsin’s nicest regions. This is the most popular dirt bike route and travels over an old railroad for 10 miles before reaching the state’s historic capital city. You’ll be riding along the Pecatonica River, which is really picturesque, as well as through farms, historic structures, and other locations, as you get a terrific immersive tour of Wisconsin’s past. When traveling east, you will reach Calamine, where you can join the fantastic 47-mile Cheese Country Trail. The route finishes in Belmont, where it connects to the Mound View State Trail if you travel west on it from Calamine.
5.) Cheese Country Trail
Due to its numerous dairy farms, Wisconsin is best known as the Cheese Country, and as a result, this is one of the symbols that the entire globe will identify with the state. It makes sense that there is a Cheese Country Trail The 47-mile trail traverses Iowa, Lafayette, and Green counties and passes through a variety of scenery, including bluffs, woodlands, and rolling hills. Another name for it is the epicenter of dirt bike joy. Along the road, there are numerous restaurants, hotels, and shops, which will only increase its popularity. Along the trail, you can also try your hand at snowmobiling, horseback riding, and many other outdoor activities.
6.) White River State Forest
The Black River State Forest and counties in Wisconsin have 33 miles of ATV and dirt bike trails. These trails have camping, picnicking, and shelter places, and they are open all year long. To ride here, your motorbike must be street-legal and registered with the DNR as an off-highway motorcycle (OHM). Go here to learn more.
7.) Cattail Trail
Ride the Cattail Trail for 13 miles on a graveled rail bed in Polk County. In spring, summer, and fall, you can ride dirt bikes here and connect to the Polk County officials-maintained Sawmill County Trail, Sterling County ATV Trail, and Gandy Dancer State Trail.
Wisconsin’s Top Trails For Off-Road Biking
1.) The first is the Douglas County Off-Highway Motorcycle Trails in Wisconsin.
Off-road dirt bike routes covering more than five kilometers are available in Douglas County. The trails are very well-liked by dirt bikers and are accessible during the summer. This track joins a vast network of trails that provide 45 miles more off-road travel, but they go into our neighboring state of Minnesota.
2.) GREEN/IOWA/LAFAYETTE COUNTIES, WI, CHEESE COUNTRY TRAIL
One of the off-road motorcycle trails in the state that is most highly recommended is the Cheese Country Trail. Through the counties of Green, Lafayette, and Iowa, the 47-mile trail travels south and east. Prepare yourself for one of the loveliest rides of your life. Cheese Country Trail is unquestionably the epicenter of dirt bike happiness, featuring undulating hills, densely wooded areas, and majestic cliffs.
3.) CALAMINE, WI’s PECATONICA STATE TRAIL
Through some of Wisconsin’s most stunning regions, the Pecatonica State Trail formed an old railroad grade. You can travel the 10-mile winding trail from one of the oldest settlements in our state to the location of our previous capital. You’ll witness farms, the magnificent Pecatonica River, old houses, and much more!
4.) KENOSHA COUNTY, WI, BONG STATE RECREATIONAL AREA
The 10-mile trail at Bong State Recreational Area in Kenosha County is ideal for dirt riders. You’ll like the adventure of the three dirt circuits that saunter across wetlands and prairies.
5.) CLARK COUNTY, WI, KNOBBY RIDGE TRAIL SYSTEM
The Knobby Ridge Trail meanders through the county of Clark. The stunning Clark County Forest has a looping trail system that is nearly 16 miles long. The Knobby Ridge dirt bike track requires passes to be purchased before use, and the greatest thing is that ATVs and UTVs are not permitted on the routing system!
Wisconsin’s Best Dirt Bike Trails to Explore
It’s enjoyable to ride your dirt bike and explore the world-class trails in the Milwaukee, Kenosha, and Madison areas. You’ll undoubtedly find some amazing spots nearby, whether you prefer the difficult bog holes and hill climbs or the more sedate wide country with some tight technical portions thrown in for good measure. Others require a small entrance fee, while some are free. Park for bicycles in Arkansaw The Arkansaw Cycle Park, which is more well-liked by MX riders and professional competitors, is a great option if you want a well-kept train. If closed-circuit racing isn’t your style, there is an 8-mile enduro course as well as a place for kids with the PeeWee course. It’s best to call beforehand before bringing your bike and gear to any of the AMA events that are conducted here.
1.) Syracuse Mound Motorcycle Recreation Area
Like a 500+ acre open space with well-defined trails? If so, you’ll adore this place. The kids are entertained by the supercross, motocross, and peewee tracks. Get into the mud bog hole and have fun winching yourself out if that isn’t sufficient.
2.) Cedar Lake Arena
Do you enjoy biking all year long but struggle in the snow? Then Cedar Lake is actually a dirt bike-friendly indoor motocross facility. It is located in New Richmond, Wisconsin, and is open nearly every day, though it is essential to phone ahead of time to schedule a session.
3.) Copenhagen Cycle Park
The Denmark Cycle Park is accessible to enthusiasts on two or three days each week. ATVs and dirt motorcycles are both permitted here. As they run certain scheduled events on weekends, it’s recommended to contact them once more.
4.) Wisconsin’s Flambeau Trail System
The Flambeau National Forest is located in Fifield and boasts more than 70 miles of trails that were once logging roads but are now a fun adventure. It’s perfect for dual-sport wilderness adventuring and some covert camping because of the breathtaking environment.
UTV and ATV
Time to get out on the trails! Washburn County is a premier ATV destination that you won’t want to miss. It has over 100 miles of ATV & UTV tracks that connect to an expanding network of ATV trails in Northwest Wisconsin. The county’s numerous loops, which connect to the Wild Rivers and Tuscobia State Trails, produce an unparalleled ATV experience. Planning an ATV holiday is simply because of the abundance of ATV parking spaces and the accessibility of hotels and eateries. ATV trails normally start operating on Memorial Day weekend’s Saturday and continue operating until the fall, when snowmobile and winter use routes start operating. Fall is a fantastic season for exploring the local trails and admiring the stunning fall foliage. If you’ve never taken an ATV Scenic Tour, you should pick up the brochure and go exploring
Dirt Bike Riding on ATV Trails
When it comes to riding dirt bikes on particular trails, each state has its own regulations. I’ve gathered information on riding dirt bikes on ATV trails here so that you can do it safely and legally. As long as the rider(s) is/are eighteen years of age or older, wearing a helmet/protective gear, and abiding by the regulations of the state they are riding in, dirt motorcycles are permitted on ATV trails. There is no exception for irresponsible driving, going over the posted speed limit, or letting kids under 18 travel unattended.
On ATV trails, Are Dirt Bikes Allowed?
Yes is the clear-cut response. ATV paths are open to dirt bike use. Each state, however, has its own rules regarding the use of dirt bikes on its trails. Some dirt bikes require registration; some require riders to wear helmets (which goes without saying), and so forth. Given that they are off-terrain vehicles, dirt bikes are regarded as ATVs. They have access to paths intended for all off-road vehicles because they are designed to be driven on trails and up through the mountains. All-Terrain Vehicles, or ATVs, are vehicles that may be used for off-roading and are even permitted to travel on public highways in some jurisdictions with particular registration and licensing. In other words, as long as you are of legal age and are safe, it is perfectly safe and legal to ride a dirt bike on ATV tracks. However, you must check your state’s rules and registration requirements to be in compliance with the law and to ensure your safety. If these regulations are broken, there may be fines of up to $500 in various areas.
What Regulations Apply to Dirt Bike Riding on ATV Trails?
Riders of dirt bikes can take a variety of precautions to keep themselves safe in the event of an injury or serious accident. Before plunging headfirst into a trail they aren’t legally prepared for, states mandate that dirt bike riders who wish to ride on ATV trails need to complete a few steps first. Most states have laws requiring helmet use when riding a dirt bike on ATV trails. If these kinds of rules are not properly described and made available to the public, it is a serious safety concern and could cause trouble for the state. Safety should always come first, so make sure your helmet is with you at all times.
Some states go so far as to ban irresponsible driving.
Some may wonder: What constitutes reckless driving? This is sometimes described as exceeding a speed restriction that is dangerous and beyond the rider’s control. It is irresponsible to exceed anything on a bike that can’t be quickly halted or turned. Or reckless driving is any kind of driving that can endanger others by moving at an excessive speed or getting in the way of other drivers. Everyone under the age of eighteen must be under the supervision of who is at least eighteen years old, according to state law. This is a safety measure for many if not all things that could be regarded as hazardous for children and untrained individuals. Anyone over the age of fourteen is permitted to ride without tight supervision in areas like California, where laws prohibit anyone under the age of fourteen from doing so. Additionally, this may vary according to the state and what its laws are about minors operating licensed vehicles.
Security First
No matter your age or the state you live in, it may seem obvious, but riding a dirt bike safely is really vital. Making sure you are wearing the appropriate safety equipment when riding on an ATV path greatly enhances your ride and increases your safety. Every state has a law requiring helmet use for anyone operating any kind of off-road vehicle. One of the body’s most important organs, the brain, is shielded by a helmet. If you breathe to fall off your bike unintentionally, the helmet will serve to protect you from concussions and any object passing through your skull. All bikers, not only particular ones, should wear helmets for their protection. According to states, wearing a helmet when riding is required as a safety measure to avoid litigation and terrible incidents that could harm the state and the riders.
Some jurisdictions even go so far as to mandate that motorcyclists wear protective clothing in addition to their helmets, including long sleeve shirts, gloves, and in some cases riding boots. Riders are protected from horrific scrapes and bruises by using long sleeves or protective shirts. Gloves prevent riders’ knuckles from being broken by branches or other debris and provide a firm grasp on the handles. Rocks, bushes, and other debris that are stirred up while cycling can only be protected by boots. Being safe should always come first, regardless of where you are riding or what vehicle you are using. States require riders to wear protective gear that will shield them from significant injury in order to use ATV trails. All motorcyclists can benefit from wearing a helmet, riding gloves, a long sleeve shirt, or even boots when necessary. Doing so will keep you and everyone else safe. Considering how risky trails can be, safety should always come first.
Do Dirt Bike Size Restrictions Exist?
In Kentucky, anyone under the age of sixteen is not allowed to operate an off-road vehicle with an engine larger than 90 cubic centimeters unless they have direct parental supervision and are wearing safety equipment. Without parental supervision and safety equipment, anyone under the age of twelve is not permitted to operate an off-road vehicle with an engine larger than seventy cubic centimeters. Similar to Kentucky, other states also set laws and restrictions and put them in place to prevent riders from riding things that are difficult for them to control and to ensure that they can stop safely and within a fair amount of time. States ensure that parents are shielding their children from needless danger while also safeguarding the riders. Even if each state has a distinct size and restriction requirements, inexperienced riders should still be closely supervised by their parents or guardians and should be aware of the significance of safety and riding a bike that is suitable for their size, age, and level of experience.
When am I permitted to drive my utility vehicle (UTV) or all-terrain vehicle (ATV)?
You may only use your ATV/UTV on State-funded Summer Use Trails from Friday of Memorial Day weekend through September 15, when trails are formally opened. White blazers are used to identify these pathways. On these trails, only vehicles that comply with the State’s definition of an ATV/UTV are allowed. (For a map of the summertime ATV trails, go here.) ATV/UTV use is prohibited on any other trails. For information on the rules and restrictions for using ATVs and UTVs on town roads at this time of year, please contact individual townships. On the Burnett County Forest Lands, you are permitted to use your registered ATV/UTV on the fire lanes, logging roads, and snowmobile routes that are already in place from September 16 through November 30. To ride on logging roads, they must be at least eight feet wide. Off-trail use is prohibited, and it’s against the law to operate on privately owned land without the owner’s consent. For information on the rules and restrictions for using ATVs and UTVs on town roads at this time of year, please contact individual townships. Since these trails are currently multi-use, any street-legal, licensed vehicle is allowed to utilize them. Off-road motorcycles are not permitted at any time on our trails or on Burnett County Forest Lands. At this time of year, trails are not being maintained. You need to be aware of whose property you are on. Additional details (PDF)…
If there is a four-inch groomed snow base, you are permitted to ride your ATV/UTV on State-funded winter-use trails from December 1 through March 31 after they have been formally opened. These paths are indicated with blue blazers and can be seen on the Winter Use Trail Map. The Frozen Ground ATV Winter Trail will be accessible as soon as the weather is suitable, even if there is no snow. Green blazers are used to identify these pathways. ATV/UTV use is prohibited on any other trails. For information on the rules and restrictions for using ATVs and UTVs on town roads at this time of year, please contact individual townships. For current circumstances, go to Trial Updates.
When It Is Illegal To Operate An ATV/UTV
The whole Burnett County Forest Lands are closed from April 1 until the Friday before Memorial Day Weekend. When the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) has posted the wildfire hazard as a Red Flag Alert, when county or state emergency fire regulations are in force, or both. When a road or trail has been bermed, fenced, or otherwise marked as being off-limits to automobiles.
Different Laws & Rules
It is forbidden to act carelessly, chase any wild animal with the intention of tormenting it or act in a way that could inflict injury or property damage on other people or their property. Unless on a track that has been approved, it is forbidden to ride an ATV or UTV in any wetlands or within 50 feet of any surface water’s normal high water mark. Your ATV/UTV needs to be registered or licensed and has a spark arrestor that has passed inspection by the U.S. Forest Service. This arrestor must be kept up to date and in good functioning condition. It is prohibited to drive your ATV/UTV faster than the posted speed limit on any road or faster than the speeds specified in State Statutes 23.33(3) and 350.10(1) while close to residences or pedestrians. On any ATV trail, it is prohibited to drive your ATV/UTV faster than 30 miles per hour (MPH). Off-road motorcycles, as well as any other unregistered or illegal vehicles, are never permitted on Burnett County Forest Land. You can ride your ATV/UTV on the Gandy Dancer Trail if there is a 4-inch groomed snow base or if there is no snow once the ground is frozen and paths have been declared open. Enjoy your stay in Burnett County by being cautious, considerate of other trail users, riding safely, and being careful.
Commonly asked questions
Where in Wisconsin can you ride a dirt bike?
Here are 12 excellent locations in Wisconsin to ride a dirt bike:
Forest of Nemadji State.
State Recreation Area Bong.
Syracuse Mound ORV Area for recreation.
State Trail in Pecatonica.
Country of Cheese Trail.
State Park on Black River.
Cactus Trail
Trail of Dead Horse Run.
A dirt bike, is it an ATV?
An all-terrain vehicle is a term that already implies this. Snow, thin ice, mud, and dry sand are all situations that ATVs are designed to operate. On the other side, cold weather severely exposes the limitations of dirt bikes. There is no tire that a dirt bike can use to plow through thick, dense snow.
Are you able to ride a dirt bike off-road?
You can always ride your legally tagged and registered vehicle off-road, but you cannot operate an OHV dirt bike on public roadways (or even trails now).
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