
3 minute read
Dakota
blackhillsbadlands.com
he Black Hills National Forest boasts one of the largest motorized trail systems in a National Forest open to vehicles 62 inches or less in width. It currently consists of more than 3,600 miles of open roads — over 650 miles are designated trails for all types of Off-Highway Vehicles (OHV) — and has 21 designated motorized trailheads. The motorized trail system includes 90 miles of single-track trails for motorcycles, 347 miles of trails for vehicles 62 inches or less in width in South Dakota, and 72 miles of trails for vehicles 50 inches or less in width in Wyoming. There are also 148 miles of trails open to all. The system incorporates a large number of looped trails and has parking access from 20 trailheads.
OHV PERMITS
A Black Hills Motorized Trail Permit is required to access the South Dakota portion of the motorized trail system and when riding an unlicensed OHV on a forest road designated “open to all vehicles.” Permits are available as a seven-day consecutive pass ($20) or an annual pass ($25). Prices are subject to change. Permits may be purchased on the website above, or at any of the forest service offices, as well as the Black Hills Visitor Information Center.
RULES AND REGULATIONS
In South Dakota, state motorcycle law governs ATVs and UTVs. • On-the-road drivers need a licensed OHV, must be 14 years of age or older and possess a valid driver’s license. • ATV/UTV use is strictly prohibited on the interstate highway system at all times. • Eye protection is required for ATV/UTV operators on all public roads unless a windshield is in place. • Helmets are advised for all ATV/UTV operators and riders on all roads. Helmets are required by law for anyone under 18. • Operators on roads must be able to provide registration and proof of insurance. There is no minimum age or license requirement for off-road drivers on trails. However, please follow the manufacturer’s guidelines on age and size requirements. ATVs/UTVs may be used on most roads and highways as long as they are registered and licensed. If you live in a state where ATVs/UTVs cannot be licensed for road use, you may not ride on roads in South Dakota unless you obtain a special road travel permit, available at any county courthouse in South Dakota.
Ride the 3rd Annual Custer Off-Road Rally June 11-13, 2021 custersd.com
The Custer Chamber is excited to host the 3rd Annual Custer Off-Road Rally. Load your ATV, UTV or Dual-Sport bike and enjoy riding hundreds of miles in the beautiful southern hills June 11-13, 2021. Enjoy a weekend packed with events including a poker run, live music, Mayor’s Ride, President’s Ride, awards banquet and more. Each driver registration will receive a goody bag full of fun items including a commemorative 2021 Off-Road Rally sticker and Custer County Search & Rescue bandana. Visit the website to register and learn more about accommodations and attractions in the Custer area.
Ride the 4th Annual Sturgis Off-Road Rally September 9-12, 2021 officialsturgisevents.com
The City of Sturgis Rally and Events Department, along with Russ Brown Motorcycle Attorneys, proudly present the 2021 4th Annual “STURGIS OFFROAD RALLY” September 9-12, 2021. Join them for four days of endless outdoor fun at the Sturgis Off-Road Rally. There’s nothing like spending a crisp fall weekend exploring over 3,000 miles of roads and trails in the Black Hills of South Dakota. Weekend events include a Show and Shine, poker runs, barrel races, self-guided rides, pole bending, socials and the always popular, Director’s Ride and navigation games. The fun begins Thursday, September 9, with on-site check-in starting at noon, then ending Sunday, September 12, with a “ride on your own” event. Everything in between is pure fun including the awards social being held on Saturday this year! For a schedule of events, visit the website and it’s important to note, you will need to have your rig licensed (temporary licensing available on Thursday and Friday at the Meade County building) and have a trail permit.

