2019-01-18 01:07:26
START EXPLORING The Black Hills National Forest boasts one of the largest motorized trail systems in a National Forest that is open to vehicles 62 inches or less in width. It 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. A Black Hills Motorized Trail Permit is required to access the South Dakota portion of the trail system. Purchase a permit as a seven-day consecutive pass, $20, or an annual pass, $25. Both are available at fs.usda.gov/blackhills, or any of the forest offies. Prices are subject to change. Please note that a separate permit is required when operating an OHV in WY. Permits are also available for purchase at the Black Hills Visitor Information Center, located off I-90 at Exit 61 in Rapid City. The visitor center is open seven days a week, year-round, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and offers extended summer hours. The forest is closed to cross-country travel, except for the open roads and motorized trails as shown on the free Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) provided with trail permits and available online or at forest service offices. Visitors are responsible for using the information on these maps, and knowing which roads and trails are open for various types of motorized use. To plan your next ride, view or download the Black Hills & Badlands Off-Road Adventures Guide at blackhillsbadlands.com/black-hills-travel-guides. Know Before You Go • In South Dakota, state motorcycle law governs OHVs. • There is no minimum age or license requirement for drivers on trails. • On-the-road drivers need a licensed OHV, must be 14 years of age or older, and must be able to provide registration, proof of insurance and posses a valid driver’s license. • OHV use is strictly prohibited on the interstate highway. • Eye protection is required for OHV operators on all public roads unless a windshield is in place. • Helmets are advised for all OHV operators and riders, and are required by law for anyone under the age of 18. • Download the MVUM on your mobile device using GPS apps. Cell service isn’t required for GPS once it’s downloaded. • Please note, cell service is limited in many areas.
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