10 Best Off-Roading Trails in the US

Today is as good as any to get out and explore the great outdoors, this is especially true if you own an off-road vehicle and are willing to adventure! In this article we've put together a list of the Top 10 Off-Roading Trails in the US. Tip: Don't forget your off-road recovery gear when taking on any of these trails...

1. Rubicon Trail - California

As strange as it may sound for what's considered one of the most challenging off-road courses in North America, or even the world, the Rubicon Trail is technically part of a country road in El Dorado County, California. The Trail is closed to the public in late July and early August for the Jeepers Jamboree and the officially-sponsored Jeep Jamboree. 

2. Moab - Utah

Moab is definitely one of the most talked about and well-known off-roading destinations in America. It's breathtaking and enjoyed by off-roaders , mountain bikers, hikers, and rafters. There is enough terrain for anything from stock 4x4 vehicles to seriously modified off-road rigs. If you don't have your own trail-blazing truck or SUV, they offer guided trail tours and Jeep rentals.

3. Johnson Valley - California

Home to the legendary "King of the Hammers" off-road competition, Johnson Valley is one of Souther California's premiere off-road destinations. If you come here, don't forget to bring your traction boards!

4. Mojave National Preserve - California

The Mojave National Preserve is the third-largest national park in the country at a massive 16 million acres. The main visitor center is the Kelso Depot, which houses a restaurant, exhibits, restrooms, picnic area, and an information counter. The preserve has a number of historic and interesting trails and landmarks, including Afton Canyon, Cedar Canyon, Fort Piute, and Rock Spring.

5. Superlift ORV - Arkansas

Superlift ORV Park is the only privately-owned off-road park on this list and although it's not as open or expansive as some of the other destinations on this list, it's still a fun-filled destination for families and off-road enthusiasts in the southeast. The park features amenities like cabins, RV and tent camping areas, a bath house, and even a crawling course for RC cars!

6. Ouray - Colorado

Ouray is one of the most scenic destinations on our list. Ouray is situated within the San Juan National Forest areas also close by as well is the smaller Ridgeway State Park. There are a number of Alpine-themed hotels, conventional hotels and bed and breakfasts in the Ouray area.

7. Ocala National Forest - Florida

The Ocala National Forest provides a fresh change of scenery for those looking for a hot summer getaway. At 607 square miles, Ocala is the second-largest and most-visited national forest in Florida. It is also known for having a large proportion of Florida scrub habitat and the largest concentration of sand pine in the world. In addition, the forest also has more than 500 natural lakes and ponds.

8. Las Cruces - New Mexico

The Bureau of Land Management manages 5.4 million acres of land in southern New Mexico which includes an astounding 45,000 miles of roads and trails. The Organ Mountain National Recreation Area is close by and offers several camping areas and off-highway vehicle trail networks. Some areas do not have restrooms or other facilities, so plan accordingly.

9. Mendocino National Forest - California

The Mendocino National Forest is the only national forest in California that does not have a single paved road or highway crossing it, making for an especially serene nature experience. There are numerous campgrounds, most with restrooms, a camp stove, fire ring, and a picnic table, but no showers or RV hookups, except at the Red Bluff Recreation Area. Lake Pillsbury is the largest lake in the forest and has 31 miles of shoreline.

10. St. Joe State Park - Missouri

The roar of off-road engines breaks the stillness of the Old Lead Belt at St. Joe State Park, one of only two designated off-road vehicle parks in the state system. The sand flats, hills, and 2,000 acres set aside for off-road vehicle use make the park the premiere off-road vehicle area. This park features four beautiful lakes, with two swimming beaches, an equestrian trail, a hiking and bicycling trail, and some picnic sites, as well as two campgrounds capable of accommodating campers with ORV or horse trailers.

Honorable Mention: Uwharrie National Forest, North Carolina

While not in the spotlight like some of the famous trails out West, Uwharrie National Forest in North Carolina deserves an honorable mention for its unique charm and challenging trails on the East Coast. Nestled in the heart of the Piedmont region, Uwharrie offers off-roaders a taste of adventure without venturing far from the Atlantic.

The Uwharrie Off-Road Vehicle Trails present a variety of terrain, from rocky paths to steep inclines, providing a thrilling experience for both beginners and seasoned off-roaders. The Badin Lake OHV Area is the heart of Uwharrie's off-roading scene, with designated trails catering to a range of vehicle types.

MUST READ: The Best Kinetic Recovery Rope on The Planet!

We may have left other awesome off-roading trails off this list, but let us know your favorite trails in the US for off-roading! As always, we recommend being adequately prepared to take on any off-roading trail, and that means having the proper recovery gear and off-road accessories to overcome any situation.

FAQ's

How to find off-road trails

One of the best and safest ways to find off-road trails is by using OnX maps, which allows you to explore the best trails for hunting, hiking and off-roading using GPS mapping technology.

What is the best vehicle for off-roading?

Picking the right vehicle for off-roading is essential to getting the most out of your off-road journey. There are many different types of off-road vehicles, each with their own unique features. We put together the perfect list of the best off-road vehicles of all time!