Living in Atlanta and eager to take your dirt bike out for a decent ride? There are actually some really good trails around.
When the sun is shining and there’s nothing in the calendar, then it’s time to load up the trailer and get out there!
Most dirt bike riders from Atlanta and much of Georgia ride at Chattahoochee National Forest with more than 250+ miles of total trails for beginners and experienced riders. This is open to all types of offroad and dual-sport motorcycles, both registered and unregistered. Other users on these single and double trails include ATV’s, mountain bike riders and 4×4 enthusiasts.
There is an increasing amount of people getting into this sport in the state given how much epic riding there is available. Don’t miss out and get yourself out there with this helpful guide.
Best Dirt Bike Tracks near Atlanta
When we started off looking for places to ride, it was so difficult. There were these sites setup where you couldn’t really see where the trailheads where unless you paid some big bucks. This didn’t feel right to us.
Everyone deserves to have access to these tracks and explore heavily. It’s much more fun than being infront of the computer screen…that’s for sure!
These are Atlanta’s best dirt bike riding tracks:
1. Durhamtown Plantation
Head into the Durhamtown Plantation where you’ll find more than 100 miles of excellent riding conditions. These include creek crossings, hill climbs and excellent forest tracks covering more than 6,500 acres. There are motocross tracks in here too for those who want to hit some whoop sections.
2. Town Creek OHV Trail
Located near Athens and Greensboro is the Town Creek OHV System. There are two very well maintained trails here. Note that only one of these is open to dirt bikes and mountain bike riders while the other is for ATV/quad bikes. These are low-speed winding trails where you’ll be in 2nd or 3rd gear much of the way.
3. Whissenhunt Trail
Another great dirt bike trail in the Chattahoochee National Forest is the Whissenhunt Trail. Just go around 6 miles north of Dahlogega and you’ll find the trailhead, witht he trail itself being about 15 miles long. Both dirt bikes and adventure motorcyclists use this trail often and it’s well signed.
4. Houston Valley
While you’re in the area, check out the Houston Valley Trail System. There are 20+ miles of awesome dirt bike riding tracks which traverse ridges, valleys and river crossings. It’s best to ride in a group here given the numerous steep hill climbs which can be challenging for a beginner.
5. Highland Park Resort
Many people from Atlanta and Chattanooga head to Highland Park resort on weekends and bring their bike plus camping gear. The reviews for Highland Park Resort are very good especially as there are more than 90 miles of trails paired with a dealership on-site to help you with instant repairs. No need to bring a spare tube here!
It’s very much mixed terrain here. You can choose from 1 of the 30+ tracks ranging from beginners to experienced riders and they are well marked. Children are also welcome and many families visit here too. It’s best to book in advance during public holiday weekends and the warmer months.
6. Beasley Knob Trail
Another favorite riding spot for Atlanta residents is the Beasley Knob Trail. This isn’t the best option for beginners as there are challenging sections and the track is closed at night, but well worth the visit if you’re already in the Chattahoochee Forest.
7. Millsap Training Facility for MX Riders
If you want to truly develop your skills as a dirt bike rider, get yourself out to Millsap Training Facility. This place has 4 motocross tracks which are open to dirt bike riders which hold an AMA Pro License. This is a professional place and it’s run by Mark Barnett who’s a former national champion. If you’re just riding casually then you won’t like this place, but if improving track times is at the top of your list, then get along to here real soon! They also run programs for juniors.
Getting Started
There are clearly some great spots to go riding and many of them are in the Chattahoochee National Forest. You’ll be sharing the trails with some others who are out of state, especially from Chattanooga. These trails all get busy on weekends with many users so consider a weekday ride if you can and do watch out for the black bears!
Those living in Tennesse are spoiled for choice with places to ride their dirt bike. Literally – there are just so many good trails.
These are spots just begging to be discovered on 2 wheels, so let’s not waste any more precious time watching yet another YouTuber braaap their way through the mountains.
Best Dirt Bike Trails Tennesse
Here at Frontaer, we love the sound of a thumping 4-stroke just as much as the next rider. What we love more is discovering new and exciting places to ride dirt bikes.
We’ve essentially done the research so you don’t have to. We eliminated areas that were too centered around MX riding as we’re sure you’re after forest and enduro trails in the state.
We see these dirt bike trails as the best that Tennesse has to offer:
1. Ride Royal Blue ATV Resort and Campground
We love family-orientated dirt bike parks and this has to be the best in Tennesse, if not the entire country! With tracks marked for difficulty, you can feel safe knowing that there isn’t much that your kids need to overcome on some select sections of trail. There are a few waterfalls to make things interesting plus a few hill climbs to test your skills.
When you’re done with the day then the family will appreciate the amenties on offer. We’re talking a proper resort here with RV sites, cabins, a restaurant, volleyball court and recreation room. You can even have a fire if you want things to be more primitive!
2. Doe Mountain Recreation Area
Doe Mountain is seriously an epic riding spot with many multi-use trails to choose. This is the type of place where you’ll be stopping often to take photos so bring a high quality camera long. These single track riding areas are hardpacked yet can get muddy after heavy rainfall as it takes a while to evaporate.
You can’t camp with your dirt bike at Doe Mountain though there are several nearby camp sites including R&D Campground which we mention below this guide. It’s also good to check out some of the local cabin rentals in the region if your other half isn’t keen to rough it out for a few nights in a tent.
3. Stinking Creek Campground
Head into the North Cumberland Wildlife Management Area with your dirt bike and you’ll be surprised to see what’s on offer. There are very long trail loops which take you past abandoned mine sites and remote waterfalls that are untouched by the kids of Instagram.
If you are going here, it’s best to reserve 3 to 4 days to really experience everything otherwise you’ll miss out. Back at the campground you’ll find full services at the pull through sites as well as firewood and ice on offer. You’ll need a TWRA Permit which is best done by purchasing online prior to entry.
4. Prentice Cooper State Forest
Who doesn’t love riding their dirt bike in the State Forest? Of all the forests in the State of Tennesse, our pick goes to Prentice Cooper. There are many miles to explore and the views of the Tennesse river are to die for! The best spot to park your RV or 5th wheeler would be Hunters Creek Station as this place is bigger and greater heigh clerances, though Davis Pond is alright if you have your dirt bikes in a truck.
This one is highly rated by locals and those in the surrounding regions too. Therre really is something for everyone with tight technical single track mixed with open areas like the one above.
5. Adventure Off Road Park
There are 120 miles of pristine forest trails to explore on 2 wheels at Adventure Off Road Park. It’s in South Pittsburg, TN and it’s best to stay overnight here to really see everything. All vehicles are welcome here and shower facilities are provided. It’s only open Friday > Sunday and it’s best to book or call ahead of schedule to ensure there aren’t any weather-related closures.
If you do want to ride during the week when it’s much quieter, then you can do a group booking with enough people. Sometimes the Tennesse dirt bike riders club organizes events here. For updates, check out their Facebook group.
6. The Ridges at Royal Blue
Let’s say you want to do North Cumberland WMA but don’t want to stay at Stinking Creek Campground. The best alternative is The Ridges at Royal Blue which offers direct trail access. You’ll get excellent views of the Appalachian Mountains among other great sites.
The Ridges is actually not too far from Ride Royal Blue Resort and some people get confused, but they are two very different complexes. This one has only RV sites but no cabins to hire, but does it matter with epic views like this? Certainly it’s the stuff that you’ll be wanting to show off on social media.
7. Aetna Mountain Adventures
Aetna Mountain Adventurers in Marion County hasn’t been open for long but has already created a reputation as a place where thrills and spills are easily found. Popular with 4×4 enthusiasts, dirt bike riders can find more than 1,000 acres here with miles and miles of trails going in many directions. You’ll need to pay a membership fee though the cheapest way in is to find an existing member and then you’ll only need to pay the day-use fee.
8. Belle Ridge Retreat
This place based in the Cumberland Mountains is so crisp that you probably don’t want to see it on a noisy 4-stroke, and instead choose to hike it. On second thoughts…riding is just so much more fun! That is until you realize that there’s a 20-mile speed limit here which is disappointing yet understandable. We’ve included this for the ADV community rather than dirt bikers.
Dual sport riders are welcome at Belle Ridge Retreat, though dirt bikes aren’t so welcome.
There are miles and miles of world-class forest trails which take you past caves, waterfalls and river systems. These are best done by hiring a golf caddy. Back at the Belle Ridge Retreat, you’ll find more than 50 RV sites which are spacious and more than 30 tent sites (with shower facilities) and a dozen cabins. This place would be perfect if they allowed dirt bikes as they are currently banned, but a great overnight camp to explore the rest of the region by 2 wheels. Many dual-sport riders stop by here for the shower facilities.
9. American Rebel Mud Park
Our tip is to spend the morning seeing the trails on 2 wheels, and when you’re done, return back to camp to see some real spills and laugh at the carnage and heavy use of vehicle recovery straps. This mud park attracts dozens of 4×4’s who are keen to show off their skills and thumping buggies in the mud pits.
Children are welcome here with a kids-sized track that’s perfect for helping them hone in their skills. Then again, they’ll probably want to simply watch the guys drifting around on the mud tracks. There is a big wash down bay as you would expect and an epic campground with everything that you need.
10. Trails End Motosports Park
Did someone say 600 miles of epic dirt bike trails systems in the State of Tennesse? Yep! You’ve caught our attention. You can bring all your gear here and spend a few days really seeing all the trails here. There is a store on-site as well as a camp ground, RV dump station, shower facilities and ATV rentals. You’ll need a TWRA Permit if you’re riding the ATV trails.
We recommend bringing some extra fuel cans and leaving them back at camp locked up, otherwise you just won’t get a chance to see it all. The trails are marked for difficulty and serve all types of riders.
11. R and D Campground
You’ll take at least 2 days to see all the trails at R and D Campground over at Doe Mountain. The campground is great but the trails are even better! Flat terrain for the beginners as well as some hill climb sections and enduro loops galore. It’s mostly hard-packed though there are some loose sections too.
Kids are welcome here and they’ll appreciate the swimming pool and playground. It’s more of a resort than a playground actually, but hey, at least mum will be kept happy!
12. Windrock Park
We’ve definitely left one of Tennesse’s best dirt bike spots until last! With more than 70,000 acres of epic trails to ride, you could easily spend all week here. It’s north of Oliver Springs and draws in dirt bike riders from all parts of North America. Some even spend their 2 weeks of vacation leave here and it doesn’t surprise us one bit – just look at the views!
Windrock Park is one of Tennesse’s best-kept secrets in the dirt bike community.
There are various names for Windrock Park which include Coal Creak, Toddy Mountain, Wolf Ridge and Patterson Mountain Hannah Top. After all, this places traverses so much area. You can camp here overnight with your RV, tent or go with a more comfortable experience with an ensuite cabin. There are showers on site and heaps of people come here daily, so it’s best to book ahead.
Getting Started
A couple of notable entries that we missed are Wheelin’ in the Country Inc Off Road Park and Wooly’s Offroad. These spots are really popular and it’s best to book a few days ahead to ensure you don’t miss out.
Now it’s clear to see that Tennesse is spoiled for choice with these epic spots to ride dirt bikes. From private property to State Forests, it’s obvious why people travel in from out of state quite often.
As you’ve probably noted, many of these riding spots are best for those camping overnight. They are just massive and you just won’t have time to see everything otherwise. The ADV community also loves Tennesse because of the stunning scenery and the acceptance of OHV on government land.
Do you know what time it is now? It’s time to get out there and explore more of your own backyard!
The Honda XR650R is a legendary dirt bike that’s worthy of any dual-sport or dirt bike enthusiast consideration.
After all, it lends itself to dirt bike riding as it does to adventure riding. I mean – just look at that headlight!
XR650R Review
Firstly – this bike rips along! These are bikes which are damn hard to source in the used market given the reputation that they built for themselves. It makes us wonder why Honda ever stopped the production of the XR650.
This bike is known as a Mexican superhero due to its association with the Baja 1000 having won the 1999 race despite Kawasaki holding the title for 9 years. The invention of the XR650 was all because of one person in Honda’s new bike development team called Bruce Ogilvie. For years he was pitching this concept to his bosses until they eventually listened. It didn’t go easy as there was already a big bore XR in the lineup, but it was nowhere near what Bruce had foreseen.
The bike has earned not only a reputation as a powerful beast but one that is very reliable. They almost never broke down and even today, you’ll find them on Craigslist and Gumtree. It’s truly a legacy bike and often held by those who just don’t want to give up the keys to this mastercraft.
This is closer to a dakar-inspired race bike rather than MX super hero. You’ll find it on enduro tracks with a lot of top-end power as opposed to a twichy throttle in low gears. The bike appears to go…and go…and go!
Yet it appears to be more of an adventure or dual sport bike as opposed to a bike that you can throw around on the local trails. Set up some panniers and see the world behind the handlebars of this reliable demon.
Why Did It Stop Production?
For 7 years the XR650R was produced by Honda with massive fan-fare. After all, seeing it win the Baja 1000 after all those years held by Kawasaki was refreshing for the Honda fans. They wanted the bike for that element alone.
Given the rise in technology of the big bores, the XR650R became super-seeded by more powerful and robust engines of the same capacity, or often less. The Honda CRF450 Rally for instance for Ricky Brabec’s bike of choice to win the 2020 Dakar Rally.
While 20 years ago it would take a great capacity bike to accomplish such records, now the same can be done with 450cc dirt bikes which are merely tuned up. The same can be said with KTM as both Alex Doringer and Toby Price ride 450s which have come a long way.
Still Worth It?
Given that these bikes are more than 15 years now, their parts availability is becoming more limited. Instead, we see more potential in lighter and more powerful 450’s or even a 250.
If we had all the space in the garage to fill and simply wanted a bike to ‘see what it could do’, then the XR650R would be at the top of our list. Otherwise, we can expect many bikes on the market to be running original parts which are in need of replacement. This is both an expensive and time-consuming process, and we’d rather be out there riding!
If you’re living in Louiseville, Lexington-Fayette, Bowling Green or Owensboro then you’ve got some great dirt bike trails.
These are places that you don’t need to travel far to explore. Some of these spots you can literally ride from home provided you have a registered dirt bike with insurance and a licence. Most people do haul their bikes in the back of the truck or on a trailer.
Best Dirt Bike Trails Kentucky
We’ve done this roundup of the best riding areas to save you a ton of time! After all, it’s just much more fun to be out there on the ground and exploring these regions. If the sun is shining, then refer to this list and get yourself out there!
While it’s not a review of these places in that we haven’t ranked these in a particular order, we’ve removed places that didn’t meet our expectations. We wanted to show you enduro and open riding areas instead of the typical MX track that loops around. Some are tight forest tracks and others are open savannah.
So essentially, these are Kentucky’s best dirt bike trails:
1. Mine Made Paradise Adventure Park
This is the best spot in all of Kentucky! You’ll have to head to Knott County which is near Lexington and Cincinnati. Here is where you’ll find miles and miles of dirt bike trails spread across more than 40,000 acres. They actually separate the dirt bikes from the other offroad vehicles here.
Mine Made Paradise Adventure Park is certainly our favorite in Kentucky!
There are many scenic forest loops and water crossings to keep you guessing behind the handlebars. Both beginners and experienced riders will be well served with both easy and more difficult trails here which are well marked. Fortunately, this is one of those places which remain open year-round and the campground is well served with RV hookups and showers provided.
2. Hollerwood Park
There are more than 3,000 acres of epic riding trails at Hollerwood Park. This is private land where you can camp overnight and you’ll probably want to given how big it is. The terrain is perfect for dirt bikes but it’s also shared with other recreational vehicles.
Hollerwood Park is pretty epic.
They do monthly and yearly passes at the moment and many people around Kentucky come here often when the weather is good. It gets real busy on weekends but with so many trails to explore for both beginners and experiended riders, it’s unlikely you’ll come across another group that often.
3. Redbird Crest Trail System
100+ miles of epic trails? We’ll have that! Redbird Cres Trail System is excellent for those who want free access to riding tracks in Kentucky. This saves having to pay a moto park a fortune to get in! There are numerous tracks and the terrain is a bit tough going.
You’ll need a trail pass to ride your dirt bike on Redbird Crest Trail System
You will need both a trail pass (available from the Ranger Station) as well as a registered dirt bike and a licence. After all, this is public land within the Daniel Boone National Forest within the Redbird Ranger District. This is yet another popular place for weekend riders so come here during the week if you want the place to yourself.
4. Rush Off Road
When someone hands you over to 7,000 acres to explore, what are you gonna say? “Yes please!” and that’s what many people do at Rush Off Road. There are trails everywhere and it’s open to all OHV vehicles, so bring all your toys and camping gear too.
Most people make a weekend trip here or even stay for a few days. This is also because they sell either a weekly pass or a seasonal pass to riders, so it’s best to make the most of it. When you’re done with a day of riding, drop a fishing line into one of the numerous fishing ponds and try your luck. Don’t forget the beer!
5. West Kentucky ATV Recreational Area
While not the biggest place around, it’s still worth checking out West Kentucky ATV Recreational Area. This place is free to ride and the trails are open to dirt bikes and those from all skill levels and horse power. The terrain isn’t too challenging with mostly gravel tracks and some mud pits to make it all interesting.
6. Wildcat Adventures Offroad Park
If you’re looking for some longer loops that are clearly marked for difficulty, then Wildcat has you sored. They welcome dirt bikes and all other offroad vehicles here. The dirt bike trails are really easy to navigate and ride which makes this the perfect place to bring a first-timer looking to develop their skills slowly. You can bring the RV or simply rent one of the on-site cabins. When the riding is finished, hire a kayak or throw a line into the water as the fish start biting in the late afternoon.
7. White Sulphur OHV Trail System
Within the Daniel Boone National Forest and not far from the Redbird Crest Trail System is White Sulphur OHV Trail System. This place is smaller with under 20 miles of good trails to explore on 2 wheels. You’ll need a trail permit (Cumberland Ranger District is who you contact) and you can camp at Zilpo or Clear Creek campgrounds.
8. Turkey Bay OHV Area
This is yet another place that has more than 100 miles of trails to explore. This is becoming a common trend, isn’t it? 100 miles. Must be something in the Kentucky water supply. In addition to everything to explore here, you’ll also find a fenced-off kids motocross track to help them get started in the sport. This is one of those rare places which is open year-round though it does close when it gets too muddy as being bogged for days is a very real threat.
9. Blue Holler Offroad Park
With numerous trails on offer, Blue Holler is perfect for people from all backgrounds. These tracks are typically tight and narrow where 1st and 2nd gear will be the main go-to options. What makes them so special is the large drive-through cave which is perfect for that Instagram snap!
The occasional water crossing is worth trying out!
You can camp here although there aint no water or power but there is shower facilities and toilets to keep the family happy. A food truck comes in the busier months to serve hot food. Nearby is the Mammoth Cave National Park which is worth a hike.
10. Dirt Nasty Off Road Park
Dirt Nasty has 600 acres of trails surrounded by woodlands paired with the occasional challenging hill climb and bog hole. It’s the perfect place to let loose and it’s out towards Morehead. They only open on weekends at this stage. This isn’t to be confused with Dirty Turtle which has a similar name but is a smaller park over in Bedford, KY which is more open country and where 4th or 5th gear can finally be found.
11. Earlington Loch Mary Lake ATV Park
With around 10 miles of riding trails to explore, it’s worth checking this place out. You’ll need a permit as this is an OHV trail and goes through hardwood forests. No camping on site though there are bathrooms and some excellent scenic views. This place is also closed during hunting season.
12. Daniel Boone Motocross Park
This is a motocross track that’s usually used by enduro riders looking to improve their skills, with the track well groomed by the hosts. If you’re looking to improve your confidence when jumping then this is the place for you. Competitions are seldom held here so you stand a good chance of being able to ride here freely but it’s best to call ahead first.
13. Royal ATV Trails
If you’re looking for some flat country where you can really open up that engine and see the top end of your gearbox, then you’re in the right place. Royal ATV Trails has numerous trails, muddy bog holes and a motocross track to refine your skills. You can even hire motorcycles here if you’re not keen to bring your own, or get a friend into the sport. Neat!
14. LTR Motorsports
Have we left the best until last? Well, technically this is a list of dirt bike riding trails in Kentucky and not one that covers motocross. We just love to explore the state just like you. However, this place is just too good not to mention.
You see, the problem is that winter riding really does suck because it’s cold. Most of these spots actually close when it’s snowing and yet it’s Christmas time that we have the most available time to go riding. Luckily, LTR Motorsports have an indoor motocross track over in Maysville which is open to dirt bikes and quad bikes alike.
Getting Started
Now we’re finished with one lepic list of places where you can ride in the state. Kentucky is certainly lucky to have all these spots available and those out of state typically make a trek in with the toy hauler in tow. If that’s you, then create a plan and try to hit 2 to 3 of these riding areas within the same trip.
Do try and avoid these places if it’s recently rained. We generally recommend 3 days waiting time to allow the soil to dry out relatively well, or longer if a cool change has come. Also, most of these places are best ridden with others though dual-sport riders and the adventure motorcycling fraternity do frequent these spots due to the solitude that’s offered.
Those living in Minneapolis or the entire state of Minnesota are spoiled for choice! There are just so many dirt bike tracks.
We’ve done the research for you so you can spend more time actually riding and less time researching. Life just is so much better behind the handlebars after all, as opposed to behind the screen.
Best Minnesota Dirt Bike Tracks
Given that you’ve really got 3 months of optimum dirt bike riding weather in Minnesota, it’s best to make full use of it. Assuming you can only ride on weekends, that leaves you just 12 weekends available provided it isn’t raining.
This is why you need to do some pretty good planning in advance. Some people aim to do a Friday > Saturday > Sunday trip with their camping gear in tow. One of the best spots to go dirt bike riding and camping is Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest.
It’s time to get into the meat and potatoes of this local guide. Here are the best dirt bike trails in Minnesota State:
1. Chengwatana State Forest
Head north from Minneapolis and you’ll find the Chengwatana State Forest. This spot is open to dirt bikes as well as ATV’s. There is only a 6 mile loop but it’s worth cruising along here. This is right on the border of Wisconsin.
2. Trout Valley Minnesota
Head into the Richard J Dorer Memorial Hardwood State Forest and you’ll get 2,400 acres in which to explore. There is a 7-mile trail that’s used for dirt bikes, mountain bikes and horses, so keep this in mind. It’s bi-directional so it’s best to slow down in the corners. Bring the fishing gear and a tent for an epic weekend getaway.
3. Appleton ORV Park
With 9 miles of dirt bike trails worth exploring, Appleton is worth the trip. It’s west of Minneapolis and the area has spots for beginners and experienced riders alike. This spot gets busy on weekends and national holidays so keep this in mind.
4. Martineau Recreation Trail
Another State Forest trail is Martineau. This is within the Paul Bunyan State forest where you’ll actually find two loops which are 67 miles in total. That’s a pretty decent ride for a day! Some areas of the track can be challenging and some bog holes which take a few days to dry out after rain, so keep this in mind.
5. Hurricane Hills MX Park
Perhaps you’re not into the enduro tracks and prefer closed-circuit riding. Where you’ll find this is at Hurricane Hills MX Park which is north of Rochester, MN. Unlike most motocross areas, this one actually welcomes ATV’s with their own track as well as the general track for dirt bikes and a PeeWee track to keep the kids happy.
6. Iron Range OHV Recreatoin Area
Iron Range is also known as the Gilbert OHV Site which was an active mine until around 40 years ago. You’ve got 1,200 acres in which to explore with about half of this being the former mining operation. Several trails in here which are exciting though technical challenging too. Best to ride this with a buddy in tow.
Getting Started
There we have it! Some awesome dirt bike trails for those who call Minnesota home. Even some of those out of state do come into Minnesota to explore the forests over the weekends. The region is becoming more popular with dual-sport and adventure riders looking for some epic camping experiences.
Some of these places do close seasonally due to snow, bear sightings or even bush fire hazards. Keep this in mind and call up before you tow in. There aren’t any dirt bike resorts in the state yet though we do look forward to seeing one open real soon.
Go out there and explore! Life is just to short and your bike is begging to be ridden.