Off-Road Trails: Nevada

Nevada is mostly a barren landscape - from the towering mountains to some of the deepest deserts, there aren't many people in this state per square mile. For off-road enthusiasts, this is a great thing because that means there is a magnificent open area for recreation.

From sand dunes to open deserts to wooded mountains, Nevada has a little bit of everything. You can even venture to the outskirts of the mysterious Area 51 if you dare, but be careful as to not enter into this and more government properties. The areas are marked, and as long as you stay on designated trails, you will be good to go.

Destination Yamaha

If you are looking for an off-road adventure in Nevada but you don’t feel like towing an ATV or UTV all the way there, Destination Yamaha has two locations in nevada where you can rent a machine.

These rental partners have everything you need for an amazing off-road experience aboard a Yamaha ATV or UTV on some of the best terrain in the state.

• Logandale - Adrenaline ATV Tours
• Las Vegas - Sun Buggy Fun Rentals

• Size 3,200 Acres
• Skill Level All
• Trailhead Amargosa, NV

Amargosa Big Dune

Las Vegas is nested in the middle of a large desert valley, and most residents of the city want to take the opportunity to stretch their legs and explore the adjacent desert in the winter time with the cooler temperatures and wide open spaces. Amargosa Big Dune is just the place to do that. Being that this sand dune spot is literally in the middle of nowhere, the crowds are non existent (or very small). The surrounding area provides great spots for primitive camping with the family. The dunes themselves are pretty small compared to other dune locations in the southwestern United States, however the primitive feel of this ride spot will keep you coming back for more.

• Size 256,000 Acres
• Skill Level All
• Trailhead Gerlach, Nev.

Black Rock Desert

Have you ever heard of the massive event called "Burning Man"?! If so, then Black Rock Desert might be familiar because it is the place where this annual event takes place. There is a bit of mountainous terrain in this area, but the main riding area is essentially 400 square miles of ultra-flat terrain - essentially a dry lake bed. If you want a testing grounds, this is a great spot to evaluate vehicles at speed with no one else around. Be careful of the summer months in this area though as temperatures consistently rise well above the century mark. Plus, you'll want to bring all of your supplies with you as there are no services in the area.

• Size 900 Acres
• Skill Level All
• Trailhead Las Vegas, Nev.

Nellis Dunes OHV Recreation Area

Located right next to big and bright city of Las Vegas, the Nellis Dunes OHV Recreation Area is mixed with sand dunes, hard pack terrain, and trails. There are plenty of rental services there if you want to drive a UTV when you visit Vegas without your own machine, or there are plenty of open trails in the 900 acres that you can take your machine out for a family ride. This primitive area doesn't have any designated camping spots, but primitive camping is allowed. Just be sure you practice the "pack it in, pack it out" principles!

• Size 25,600 Acres
• Skill Level All
• Trailhead Reno, Nev.

Bull Ranch Creek

Located next to the "biggest little city" of Reno, Bull Ranch Creek often gets overlooked as a riding area, but that would be a big mistake for all of us who like tree-lined trails and awesome scenery. Sandy terrain mixed in with some desert sage characterize the trails that run along the mountain ridges. Keep in mind that the higher elevation of this riding area will keep snow on the ground until mid-May some years, so check trail conditions before you trailer out to this spot. Be sure to fill up with supplies and fuel in Reno so you are prepared when you get here.

• Distance 200+ Miles
• Skill Level All
• Trailhead Logandale, Nev.

Logandale Trails

As we mentioned in the introduction, Nevada has a bit of everything when it comes to trails and riding areas. Logandale proves this fact, mainly because the epic scenery combines with stellar riding conditions. While it isn't very big, Logandale's sandy terrain is formed into two-track trails that are an absolute blast to rip around. Camping is permitted here in the primitive areas, and dirt tires do just fine even though it's a sandy compound. The entrance roads are all hard pack - you don't want to ruin sand tires on these roads. Happy exploring!