Whether you’re a diehard trail boss rolling in a brand new Raptor or the kids want to get a little mud on the ATV’s tires, Washington has some terrific spots where you can kick it into four-wheel drive and get wild. If you love off-roading, check out our guide to the best off-road trails around Spokane.
Olympic National Park
Image via Flickr by Ken Lund
Olympic National Park is a hot spot for 4×4 fans. The park charges a per-vehicle fee to enter, or you can purchase an annual pass. Hit one of the most popular routes, like one of the following:
Deer Park Road
Image via Flickr by alans1948
If you’re a newbie with your first Ford Explorer, head to Dear Park Road. This 11.8-mile moderately trafficked trail is the perfect place to get your feet wet. It’s best to visit this seasonal road between April and October, especially early in the season after a wet, snowy winter. The single-lane track leads up the Hurricane Ridge, Deer Park campgrounds, and trailheads, where you can hop on the park’s hiking and biking paths.
The road is steep, narrow, and has several blind corners, so go slow. There are pull-outs along the way, so you can avoid the soft shoulders if you encounter drivers heading in the other direction. You can expect to see loads of local wildflowers and stunning views as you crest the summit and gain 4,455 feet in elevation. You might even spot a few deer on the way.
Obstruction Point Road
Image via Flickr by brewbooks
Obstruction Point Road is a top-rated trek within the park. This 15.3-mile jaunt offers a stunning 2,664-foot climb into the Olympics. Plenty of steep drop-offs line the edges to really pump up your adrenaline, although the road is usually in pretty good condition.
This option is wider than a two-tack, and the county occasionally grates it. There are pull-outs if you need to stop, lock in your hubs, and engage your 4×4 system. You’ll also find a terrific hike via Elk Mountain Trail at the end of the route.
Bon Jon Pass Off-Highway Vehicle Route
Image via Flickr by photomattick
When you’re in the mood for a longer excursion, head to Bon Jon Pass. According to locals, it’s one of the best off-roading trails near Sequim and is the ideal destination for a scenic day trip. This route spans 32.3 miles and runs 3,904 feet up the mountain range and through dense woods. Depending on the time of year, you may even encounter snow near the summit. For the more seasoned trail boss, numerous offshoot courses offer even more challenging terrain.
Liberty Lake Off-Road Vehicle Park
Image via Flickr by BLM Oregon & Washington
Located next to Liberty Lake Regional Park on South Idaho Road, this 350-acre ORV park provides a fantastic place for ATV and dirt bike riders of all skill levels to cut loose. This rugged natural setting features 16 miles of trails and some of the area’s best obstacles, from mud bogs to steep slopes. However, to rip up this park, you must:
- Display a current ORV sticker.
- Meet the 1,000-pound ATV weight limit.
- Have a USDA-approved muffler spark arrestor and noise baffle.
Seven Mile Off-Road Vehicle Park
Image via Flickr by BLM Oregon & Washington
Located within Riverside State Park on Inland Road, Seven Mile ORV Park provides drivers with 600 acres of exclusive terrain for slinging mud and dirt. Motorcycles, ATVs, and four-wheelers are welcome to tear up hills, sand areas, and miles of trails through the Ponderosa Pines. The park is well-developed, with modern restrooms, picnic shelters, and plenty of room for loading and unloading.
You must trailer your ORV to the site unless it’s street legal, then you can ride it in. This park even has a dedicated beginner’s area. If you or one of the kiddos has less than a year behind the handlebars, it’s a great way to learn the rules of the road. Helmets are required, and an adult must supervise riders under 12.
Riverside State Park Off-Road Vehicle Area
Image via Flickr by Forest Service Pacific Northwest Region
Nested in nearby Nine Mile Falls, Riverside State Park touts another premier ORV area. It’s the second-largest state park in Washington, with a land area of 9,194 acres and almost 200,000 feet of shoreline. This one-stop spot near the Spokane River has it all, from a roped-off practice course for the youngsters to shaded picnic areas with barbecues when you work up a hunger exploring.
Explore the 600-acre area dedicated exclusively to off-road vehicles, including snowmobiles. A double-rail fence surrounds the ORV park, so stay within its boundaries. Always use a spotter when jumping hills, and make sure to gear up with all the appropriate safety equipment before you take off. If you love Riverside State Park’s trails, opt for the $30 annual pass and save a few bucks on the day fee.
Juniper Dunes Off-Highway Vehicle Area
Image via Flickr by BLM Oregon & Washington
Juniper Dunes in nearby Pasco is another highly recommended area to put your 4×4 to the test. This open range features world-class opportunities to ride loose sand. It sprawls across 3,920 acres of prime Bureau of Land Management recreational paradise dotted with sagebrush. Primitive trails abound, and there are plenty of places to catch air off the dunes.
This area doesn’t offer services, so make sure you pack a cooler before you head out. All motorcycles and ATVs must be outfitted with 6-inch by 12-inch orange safety flags. This area is hard to reach, so plan to make the trek in your high-clearance vehicle. Park at the end of Juniper Road and untrailer your OHV, and ride the rest of the way.Spokane, Washington, provides enthusiasts a variety of exceptional experiences, from beginner courses to rugged, remote terrain best left to the experts. What did you think of our picks? Let us know if we missed your favorite off-roading trails in the area. We’d love to add your picks to our list. Drop us a line today.
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