These Are the Best Dirtbike Trails in Idaho

Idaho is a beautiful state with some of the best dirtbike trails in the country. You can take in the beautiful scenery while riding in the freedom of the open air. 

Because dirtbikes are light, small, and engineered for offroading, you can take them across a variety of landscapes. Whether you want to do jumps, tricks, or maneuver with more flexibility than a traditional motorcycle, you will find no shortage of opportunities to enjoy nature at high speed. 

If you want to move across rough terrain quickly, dirtbikes are also a great option. They are built with shock-absorbing suspension, which allows for more give on rough tracks and roads. For instance, springs and hydraulic shocks are common suspensions that will allow your bike to move with the ground beneath it, rather than against it. 

If you already own a bike or you’re looking to purchase one, you may be wondering where you can ride it in Idaho. If so, you’ve come to the right place. 

Where Can I Ride Dirt Bikes in Idaho? 

Idaho is a dirtbike enthusiast’s dream. There are many places to ride along nature’s beautiful backdrops. The Gem State has no shortage of incredible scenery to take in as you ride. 

Here 5 of the best dirtbike trails you can ride in Idaho: 

1. 1 . The Baumgartner Trails: You’ll find these epic trails located in the Sawtooth National Forest. There are 200+ miles of singletrack and ATV trails. In general, these trails are narrow, with several steep switchbacks, and are best suited for more experienced riders.
2. Devil’s Corral: The Devil’s Corral offers about 20 miles of great trails, overlooking the Snake River. You will encounter some gorgeous views, but you should also be warned – it can get pretty dry and dusty here during the rainy season.
3. Danskin Mountains: The famous Danskin Mountain trails span for 160 miles, across 60,000 acres. The terrain is varied, including forested mountains, and desert flats. You’ll find that the majority of the dirt bike trails are sandy, and many of them run into large canyons.
4. Independence Creek Trail System: Here you’ll find a maze of single tracks amongst beautiful woodland areas. Most of these dirt bike trails are fast, packed and flat. If you’re a beginner rider, the Independence Creek Trail System is perfect.
5. Idaho City: The riding area at Idaho city is one of the most popular areas in Idaho for dirt biking. Here there are 500+ miles across 400,00 acres. You’ll find that the majority of the mapped trails run through an area of dense woodland.

With so many amazing places to go and tear it up, dirt bike riders are spoilt for choice in Idaho!

Are Dirtbikes Street Legal in Idaho? 

Yes. In Idaho you can ride your dirtbike on city, country, and highway district roads, providing that the following criteria are met:

1. Your dirt bike must possess a ‘restricted vehicle license plate’.
2. You’ll need to fix an IDPR OHV registration sticker to your license plate.
3. Drivers must possess insurance (either liability or alternative).
4. Individuals under 18 must wear a helmet, though wearing a helmet is advisable for all.
5. Drivers must have a US Forest Service-approved spark arrestor.
6. Driver’s dirtbike must have a muffler which passes the 9b dB test.

The State of Idaho guidelines also advise that your vehicle also have a taillight, headlight, brake light, horn, and a mirror that is capable of showing at least 200 feet behind your vehicle. 

Where is the Best Dirtbike Trail? 

Though you can ride dirtbikes on country and city roads in Idaho, off-road locations are the best places to ride in the Gem State. When you venture off paved pathways, you will have access to more spaces to attempt tricks, jumps, explore, and push your bike to its limits! 

In addition to some of the great places we have already covered, here are some other awesome dirtbiking destinations in Idaho: 

• Big Butte MX Park
• Clay Peak Recreational Area
• Jubilee Park
• Kirkham Ridge
• Pittsburg Landing 

Do I Need to Have an OHV Certificate for Dirtbikes in Idaho? 

An Off-Highway Motor Vehicle certificate (OHV) is required to ride a dirtbike in several different states, including Idaho. It’s important that riders obtain this certificate before they attempt to ride in the state.

All OHV’s being transported or driven, (whether on trails, roads, or public lands) need to display their IDPR OHV Registration Sticker.

Non-residents of Idaho must possess a valid OHV certificate from their place of residence or a valid registration sticker. It’s also necessary to purchase a restricted vehicle licence plate (if they do not already possess one).

What Should I Consider When Buying a New Dirtbike? 

If you are looking to purchase a new dirtbike, here are seven key considerations you should take into account before moving forward: 

1. 1. Plenty of research: Before you buy a new dirtbike, it’s best to conduct plenty of research. Where will you be riding? What kind of bikes fare best on that terrain? Narrow down some of the makes and models that you like, determine your budget, must-have features, and any appropriate questions for the place you’ll be purchasing it from.
   2. Inspect the bike: If you’re buying a second-hand bike, you’ll want to give the bike a thorough inspection to ensure that it’s up to your standards. At the same time, it’s worth checking the history of the bike, including any previous accidents or modifications.
   3. The correct licenses: As discussed above, it’s essential to get yourself the correct licenses before you operate a dirt bike.
   4. Your ability: Not all dirt-bikes are built the same, and if you’re a beginner, it’s best to look for a beginner-appropriate bike (and get yourself some training).
   5. Budget: As with any vehicle purchase, it’s best to have a budget in mind before you start looking around. There are plenty of great deals to be had on dirt bikes if you know the right places to look!

Let’s Get You Set Up with the Perfect Dirtbike for Idaho Trails! 

Switchback Motorsports is Idaho’s most complete dirt bike retailer, with an unbelievable inventory of bikes and years of expertise to help you determine the best fit for your needs. We stock most major brands, including Yamaha and Polaris Timbersled. 

Looking for ATVs, UTVs, or snowmobiles, too? We have no shortage of outdoor vehicles you can choose from. To talk about everything motorsports, contact us. We’d be more than happy to help you determine the best dirtbike and trails to maximize your next off-road adventure.