Minnesota DNR Offers Two ATV Trail Rides through History

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Parks and Trails Division is offering two opportunities for ATV riders to hit the trails with DNR staff and learn about some of Minnesota’s premier off-highway vehicle (OHV) areas.

Beltrami Island State Forest

On Saturday, July 28, Minnesota DNR staff will ride and guide ATV enthusiasts through a trip through history. Participants will look into the historic background of the forest, including early settlements and project sites of the Works Progress Administration and Civilian Conservation Corps. The forest has ridges covered with pine and are surrounded by large areas of low flatlands and peat bogs. The ride will cover approximately 40 miles of easy terrain over the course of four to six hours.

Beltrami Island State Forest in northern Minnesota is the second largest of the state’s 58 forests. Five rivers—the Roseau, Warroad, Rapid, Winter Road and Moose—have their headwaters here.

Beltrami State Forest other recreational opportunities include canoeing, camping, hunting, hiking, horseback riding, picnicking, and 120 miles of snowmobiling.

Space is limited for this ride. Spots can be reserved by calling Zippel Bay State Park at 218-783-6252.

Iron-Range OHV State Recreation Area (Gilbert)

On Saturday, Aug. 4, DNR staff will show off the areas mining history and examine how nature is reclaiming its beauty. The ride will begin at 9 a.m. and last approximately two hours. Gilbert is Minnesota’s top OHV area, containing 36 miles of trail across all levels of difficulty. Space for this ride is limited. Spots can be reserved by calling 218-753-2245.

The Iron Range Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Recreation Area was once a taconite mine pit in Minnesota’s Iron Range and has had a depressed economy for years.

As part of the Iron Range rehabilitation, an OHV Recreation Area was developed, using $750,000 in Recreational Trails Program (RTP) funds, after a partnership was formed among the City of Gilbert, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and state OHV associations.

All vehicles and riders must meet requirements for OHV use. Find information on Minnesota OHV trails, vehicle registration, safety certification and more at www.mndnr.gov/ohv.

myatvblog

I have been riding motorcycles since I was 9 years old. I bought my first ATV in 1984. I have been an addict ever since.

I have also been active in Utah's Jeep/Off road communities since 1993.