Exploring Lincoln National Forest by Off-Highway Vehicles (OHV) offers a unique way to experience the Sacramento Mountains, with miles of designated routes open to highway-legal vehicles, ATVs, UTVs, and dirt bikes. Riders can access scenic forest roads and trails while enjoying the area’s natural beauty.

To help protect these landscapes and keep routes open, all motorized travel must remain on designated routes.

Know Before You Go

The Motor Vehicle User Maps (MVUM) are the authoritative source for where you can ride. Visitors are encouraged to review the map before heading out: https://www.fs.usda.gov/r03/lincoln/recreation/lincoln-highway-vehicles-ohv-information This map identifies:

• Roads and trails open to motorized vehicles

• Vehicle types allowed on each route

• Seasonal access restrictions

OHV Registration & Permits – All OHVs must be registered with the New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division and display a valid sticker. New Mexico Residents | Non-resident Permit | Learn more and get permits: www.fs.usda.gov/r03/lincoln

Questions? Contact Lincoln National Forest Office: 575-434-7200 Email: SM.FSPAO.LNF@usda.gov

Stay on Designated Routes

Staying on designated routes is essential to protecting Lincoln National Forest’s natural resources and maintaining access for all users.

Motor vehicles are only permitted on designated roads, trails, and areas identified on each district’s Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM). Traveling off designated routes can cause lasting damage to forest resources and is prohibited.

Visitors should also remember:

Most designated OHV trails are limited to vehicles less than 50 inches wide.
Groups of more than 75 people participating in organized rides or gatherings must obtain a Special Use Permit.
Stay on designated routes and avoid creating new roads or tracks.
Slow down around camps, hikers, wildlife, and livestock.
Help reduce dust and noise near neighboring communities.
Pack out all trash and leave recreation areas cleaner than you found them.

OHV Routes

Always check the current Lincoln OHV Information to prepare before your trip. With hundreds of miles of trails and forest roads, Lincoln National Forest offers an incredible mix of mountain paths, desert roads, and scenic backcountry routes for OHV enthusiasts.

Dry Canyon Trail (T5574)

Trail #5574: The Dry Canyon trail is 5.2 miles long. It begins at Forest Road 5574 in Dry Canyon and ends at Forest Road 90. The trail is open for the following uses: Hiking, Horseback Riding,…

Elk Canyon Trail (T253D)

Trail #253D: The Elk Canyon trail is 2.9 miles long. It begins at Forest Road 253 and ends at Forest Road 253x. The trail is open for the following uses: Hiking, Horseback Riding, Mountain Biking,…

Heart Attack Canyon Trail (T235)

Trail #235: The Heart Attack Canyon trail is 1.4 miles long. It begins at Forest Road 90 and ends at the Rim trail (T105). The trail is open for the following uses: Hiking, Horseback Riding, Mountain…

Willie White Trail (T113)

Trail #113: The Willie White Trail is 4.6 miles long. It begins just west of Bluff Springs along County Road C17 (Rio Penasco Road) and ends at Forest Service Road 5009. The trail is open for the…

Ride Responsibly

Help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone by following these guidelines:

• Ride only on designated routes

• Observe posted signs and closures

• Yield to non-motorized trail users

• Ride at a safe and appropriate speed

• Pack out all trash and belongings

Responsible recreation supports continued access and protects the forest for future visitors.

Reporting Concerns

If you observe unsafe or unlawful activity:

• Call 911 in case of emergency

• Contact a local Lincoln National Forest ranger district office to report resource damage or off-route travel

Timely reporting helps forest staff respond and protect affected areas.

Plan Your Ride

Lincoln National Forest offers a wide range of riding opportunities. By staying informed and riding responsibly, visitors can continue to enjoy these routes while helping preserve the landscape.

Plan your OHV adventure: https://www.fs.usda.gov/r03/lincoln/recreation/opportunities/highway-vehicles-ohv
Before you go, check current conditions, closures, and access information through Lincoln National Forest: https://www.fs.usda.gov/r03/lincoln
Reviewing the MVUM and preparing for changing weather conditions will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable outing.

Explore Lincoln National Forest by OHV—Responsibly