As the sun filters through the pines and the wind carries the scent of sagebrush just up ahead, you fire up your engine and feel the reverberation in your chest. Ahead of you are off-highway-vehicle trails that wind through landscapes so diverse, they seem curated from entirely different continents. One minute you’re ripping through alpine meadows carpeted by wildflowers, the next you’re picking your way through rocky outcrops with views of the endless peaks.
This is Montana—where a vast network of OHV trails offers something that few destinations can match: true freedom. Here, nature becomes your playground, with thousands of miles of terrain to explore. Whatever kind of motorized adventure you crave, Montana has it all.
But arguably the best part of Montana’s OHV experience is its five-star backcountry lodging, er, camping choices. Pitch a tent under the Milky Way where your nearest neighbor is a moose, or glamp in campgrounds where a hot shower awaits. Also consider a Go Fast Camper, a rooftop wedge camper made in (you guessed it) Montana, which allows you to just haul your OHV.
In Montana, you can choose your own adventure—that’s what this state is all about.
Terry OHV Area
The Terry OHV Area is a small gem—only 110 acres—in eastern Montana, but it punches above its weight, offering hard-packed trails that wind through rugged badlands terrain along the Yellowstone River. With all the rock formations that change color with the sun, it’s almost like riding on another planet, and most of the riding is suitable for all levels. Camping here is primitive—bring everything you need—but the raw beauty of this place makes it worth the extra prep.
Photo Credit: Montana Department of Commerce, visitmt.com
Glendive OHV Area
Spanning 2,800 acres of eastern Montana public land open to every vehicle type, Glendive is an OHV adventure park with trails for every skill level. Whether you’re a beginner building confidence or an experienced rider tackling the steeps, you’ll likely have the place all to yourself come spring or fall. Get a rustic experience with camping on BLM land, or upgrade at nearby Makoshika State Park—Montana’s largest—that features mind-bending rock formations and is a stop on the Montana Dinosaur Trail.
Koocanusa Sand Dunes and Trail System
Timing is everything at northwestern Montana’s Lake Koocanusa, where hulking sand dunes and play pits emerge as the lake water levels drop in the late spring and early summer. (You can
even see the concrete foundations of the original site of the City of Rexford.) Aside from the desert-like dunes, 20 miles of trails traverse the reservoir and the Kootenay National Forest. Swisher Lake Campground provides four campsites, while Rexford Bench Campground offers more plus additional amenities for larger groups.
Photo Credit: Montana Department of Commerce, visitmt.com
Glasgow OHV Area
Near a town that proudly claims the title of America’s official “middle of nowhere,” the Glasgow OHV area packs a lot of excitement into its 40-acre footprint. Located in northeast Montana, this zone features challenging climbs and natural launches for advanced riders, plus flat areas and gentle slopes for newbies. Camp nearby at The Park Campground in Glasgow, and be sure to take a picture under the “Middle” and “Nowhere” street signs.
Fresno OHV Area
Comprised of 82 acres in the surreal badlands on the eastern shores of Fresno Reservoir, Fresno delivers trails, pits, and a unique dried lake bed riding surface. Just north of Havre, nearly in Canada, the landscape is remote (and nearly vegetation-less), but the access does cross private lands, so respect is a must. Camp at Fresno Reservoir Campground on the southern shore.
Pipestone OHV Area
With approximately 75 miles of trails near Butte, Pipestone offers smooth and fast riding through diverse terrain. Don’t miss the fascinating Ringing Rocks formation, which sounds like a bell when struck with a rock or hammer. (Believed to be due to the rock’s composition and the way they’re stacked, they only ring when left the way you found them.) Dispersed camping is allowed throughout, with the Four Corners Trailhead serving as a popular hub thanks to its restrooms and convenient loading ramps.
Photo Credit: Montana Department of Commerce, visitmt.com
The Big Belt Mountains and Little Belt Mountains
These central Montana ranges provide classic mountain riding with single track options for motorcycles and ATV trails for four-wheelers. Both areas offer excellent camping opportunities and serve as gateways to some of Montana’s most pristine backcountry.
Know Before You Go
Your OHV must be registered, street legal, and have a spark arrestor. Additionally, an OHV trail pass is required when riding on designated motorized routes and trails in Montana, both for residents and nonresidents.
Always follow safety guidelines and abide by posted signage. Follow recreate responsibly principles, and respect wildlife, the environment and other trail users.
Be prepared: Check the area where you wish to ride ahead of time for any restrictions, regulations, or seasonal closures. Plan ahead, download maps, and let someone know your itinerary and when you plan to be back.
Photo Credit: Jason Stilgebouer
Even if the OHV trails you ride are on public lands, you may need to cross private land to access them. Navigation apps from onX (pictured above), headquartered in Missoula, give you the designations of the lands you recreate on, so you know not only where you are but what activities you can do there. onX Offroad is geared specifically for OHV and offroad enthusiasts and provides offline access plus trail photos and descriptions.
Most importantly, get ready to have the OHV adventure of your life! Because the best roads are the ones less traveled.
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