Off-Road Trails: Idaho

Idaho is a recreationalist's paradise with endless possibilities for off-road riding. Idaho literally has everything you need to off-road adventure. Plus, all of the riding areas are scattered all across the state, making for a wide range of opportunities no matter where you are stationed.

From forest-laden mountain roads to wide open sand dunes, the terrain in Idaho is diverse and ready for you and some friends to explore.

Wild Idaho Outfitters

There’s rugged, and then there’s Central Idaho rugged. Wild Idaho Outfitters operates in the 150-square mile Salmon-Challis National Forest "Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness". This area is not for the faint of heart, but those that venture here will be rewarded with some of the best scenery to be found in the Northwest. Wild Idaho Outfitters, part of Destination Yamaha, serves mostly as an outfitter and guide service for hunting in the area. Looking for world-class elk, mule deer, and black bear hunts? This is the place to go. They can also set you up for some spectacular trout fishing and they rent Yamaha Viking XI machines for whatever adventure you are planning.

• Distance 50+ Miles
• Skill Level All
• Trailhead Hansen, Idaho

South Hills - Cassia Division

Just south of Twin Falls, Idaho, the popular "South Hills" is an off-road rider's paradise with vast valleys and tall peaks, all in one area. Top mountain peaks rise up to an elevation of 8,400 feet, and the area is covered with a wide variety of forest land and trails. Several campgrounds dot the area, and the proximity to the major city of Twin Falls allows you to have options for more camping, eating, and supplies if needed - it's a great place to bring family and new riders along.

• Distance 40+ Miles
• Skill Level All
• Trailhead Pocatello, Idaho

Pocatello ORV Area

With riding up to 7,000 feet in elevation and plenty of designated routes to ride your side-by-side, the Pocatello ORV multi use trail system is a multi-use trail that has several different staging areas. Within this area, the Blackrock Canyon Recreation Site offers over 40 miles of trails for OHV enthusiasts. With its nearby town of Pocatello, amenities, including lodging, supplies, and gasoline, are all within close distance to the riding area.

• Distance 101 Miles
• Skill Level Expert
• Trailhead Near Elk City, Idaho

Magruder Road Corridor

Those of you who love long distance adventures will instantly fall in love with the Magruder Road Corridor, which is located in the northeastern part of Idaho. This is a trail that winds its way through rough backcountry and wilderness areas that most people won't see in their lifetime. It is a must to be prepared for anything on this trip, and most will attempt to complete the trail in a matter of two days with a stay in the middle of the trail at one of the remote campgrounds. Be advised that the nearest city, Elk City, does not have much there, so you are advised to pack all of your essentials in the larger city of Grangeville. Be sure you plan to either return the way you came, or have someone drive your trailer around the mountain to the other side of this trail.

• Size 10,600 Acres
• Skill Level All
• Trailhead Egin Lake, Idaho

St. Anthony Sand Dunes

One of the most dramatic dune fields in the continental United States lies in Idaho, and it is named the St. Anthony Sand Dunes. This set of dunes are some of the largest and most fun in the entire county, that is if you're a sand fanatic. Several campgrounds are near the riding area, and the city of Rexburg has everything you need to enjoy your stay!

• Distance 200+ miles
• Skill Level Any
• Trailhead Wyan, Idaho (with several others)

Caribou Loop

The Caribou Loop Trail winds along through the border between Idaho and Wyoming, making it a multi-state trail. It consists of mostly gravel roads, making it pretty easy for any skill-level rider. There are snow-covered peaks and wide open views along with some scenic forest trails. The main loop is 200 miles long, with over 20 side trails to explore. Idaho ORV registration is required and all USFS regulations are enforced. This is a great trail system to explore over a couple of days. Campsites are available. Machines are limited to 66-inches in width for most of the trail system.