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Black Hills ATV’n

By Aaron from ALLTrips.com

The one-million-plus acres the Black Hills offers a huge diversity of ATVing terrain. Whether you want to follow pine-needle-covered Forest Service roads running through conifer forests; wind your way through gray, clayey hills; climb boulders and fallen trees; or cruise along established trails, you’ll find what you’re looking for here.
When to Come

Any time is a good time, as long as you’re riding your ATV in the Black Hills. That said, the fall hunting season is the busiest time, and if you decide to come then be sure to bring bright clothing if you plan on doing any hiking.

Expect snow through April, although temperatures in March and April can rise up into the 50s and 60s (degrees in Fahrenheit). May tends to be one of the wetter months, with rain showers not being uncommon. Afternoon storms continue into June and temperatures rise up into the 70s. July, August and September are the warmer and drier months, great for riding. Temperatures start to cool off in October and snowstorms are possible. By November winter has started to move in, bringing colder temperatures and snow.

During winter (December 15th through March 15th) snowmobile trails are closed to ATC traffic.
Riding in the Black Hills

Over 5,000 miles of trails and roads run through the Black Hills, with everything from Forest Service roads to multi-use trails to long-abandoned mining trails. Many visitors also enjoy using their ATVs to tour the many local historic sites of interest, including ghost towns, deserted mines and old homesteads.

While the vast majority of these trails are open to ATV traffic, some wilderness areas and specific trails are closed to ATV traffic. There are also seasonal closures in some areas.

The nearby Badlands also have a plethora of trails, some of which are only accessible by ATVs or other off-highway vehicles.

Although off-road travel is illegal within National Parks boundaries, the highway through Mount Rushmore and the Badlands is open to licensed ATVs.

Rentals

If the Black Hills are a little far for you to bring your ATV with you, or if you don’t have your own, there are plenty of rentals available in the area. If you do bring your own, be sure that it’s registered and licensed. Some lodging businesses offer ATV rentals as well.

Area Guides

Commercial guide services for ATV trips in the Black Hills are limited, although there are a few places to go in the nearby area. Check in at local outdoor and ATV shops for trail advice. You can also find trail maps online and at local shops.

Local Wildlife

While riding through the Black Hills, those who know how to look for them will find signs of pronghorn, elk, deer, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, coyotes, bald eagles, peregrine falcons and osprey. In recent years mountain lion populations have also increased, although they tend to be more elusive. If you’re willing to spend some time off of your ATV, you’ll have a much better chance of sighting wildlife.

Plan Your ATV Trip:

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