Best Places For Off-Roading Near DFW
Wherever there are wheels and dirt, there is off-roading. However, for those who prefer to avoid trespassing, fines, and cancelled plans, there are many official OHV sites around the metroplex that can satisfy that need for rowdy, road-free terrain and give unadulterated permission to rip it up. Here are a few of the more officially approved options.
Trophy Club Park At Lake Grapevine
2885 Trophy Park Drive
Trophy Club, TX 76262
(817) 491-9616
www.trophyclubpark.org
Not only is Trophy Club Park at Lake Grapevine close enough for a short day trip, but it is the location of one of the few off-roading sites that separates beginners so that they can practice where they are the safest and keep long-time riders thrashing through at their own pace. The ATV and Motocross trails are divided here too, customizing the site for better use with six miles for ATV's and .6 miles for motocross riders. Riders can helmet up and have their peers eat their dirt from 8 a.m. to dusk daily.
Northwest OHV Park
2914 Highway 101
Bridgeport, TX 76426
(940) 683-3685
www.cityofbridgeport.net/index.aspx?nid=322
For $15 (cash only), ATV/MX thrill-seekers can enter Northwest OHV (Off-Highway Vehicle) Park to enjoy the 25 mile stretch of varied landscape from dirt to rocks to even foliage, the rugged and the recreational will both kick back on these trails. SUV's, ATV's and bikes are welcome at Northwest OHV Park. Supported and enjoyed by the town of Bridgeport, this site is the definition of family-friendly. This 300 acre park is open weekends only from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. in the spring and summer. Winter and fall hours differ.
Red River Motorcycle Trails, Inc.
15393 N. FM 373
Bulcher, TX 76252
(940) 995-2903
www.redrivermotorcycletrails.com
Red River Motorcycle Trails, Inc. is a 2,700 acre off-road wonderland, officially designated for tearing it up. Located in Bulcher, Texas, this area is known for its challenging and skill-building terrain, worthwhile to even professional drivers. This park is also great for family outings as the non-riders can hike and picnic nearby. Even camping is allowed, without reservations. However, no night riding is allowed and safety is high priority. Get ready to brush yourself off and skid into greatness.
Rock Trails
5310 Coleman Ranch Road
Tolar, TX 76476
(254) 835-4610
www.rocktrails.com
From 8:30 a.m. to dusk, ATV riders and dirt bikers can thrash designated trails just outside the metroplex. This site allows off-roading with ATV's, bikes, and SUV's, but the rules are strict. No one under 16 should be operating an SUV and they must be licensed with liability insurance as well. Helmets are required for smaller vehicles. The park has snacks on site and is open a little later than other parks. On Saturdays the park is open from 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. and on Sundays from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Badlands MX
County Rd. 1095
Celeste, TX
(972) 742-2228
www.badlandsmx.com
Just north of the metroplex, Badlands MX has public practices day and night. One of the few places that allows night-riding, Badlands has new rhythm section, elevation changes, numerous doubles, table-tops, a whoops section and triples and plenty of road. Getting race ready is easy at Badlands MX. Professional races are held regularly at this site as well.
Related: Distracted Driving
Kena Sosa is a freelance writer in Dallas. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.
