It’s not necessary to drive to the mountains to go hiking with your dog, ATV trails may be near you. Take your dog hiking on an ATV trail today.

Many of my favorite hiking trails are ATV trails. I’m fortunate enough to live in Maine where there is a major network of ATV and snowmobile trails.

It was a perfect weather day, and I wanted to go for a hike. I just couldn’t spare the whole day to drive to the mountains, so I opted for a more local walk in the woods. We threw some bottled water and the dog’s bowl in a small backpack and headed to one of the trails where I knew there would be room to park.  I wish I had grabbed my camera too. All I had was my iPhone pictures, and it doesn’t do the area justice.

This trail travels along the river then turns away into a tall pine forest. I know the trail well and have taken all the side trails. It’s just a beautiful area. I most enjoy the sounds of the river, the wildflowers and I see deer from time to time.

I only saw two dirt bikes on the trail, but it was during the week. Weekends can be slightly more trafficked, so listen for motorized vehicles; they have the right of way. I just step off to the side with the dog and let them pass. They often drive fast, and they wouldn’t have time to react even if they saw you.

Safty Considerations

If your lucky and live in an area with ATV trails, check out your local ATV or snowmobile club for trail maps. Check which will be safe to hike on and not too heavily trafficked by ATV’s. A word of caution, however, most trails have intersections and side trails. It would be easy to get lost. A good GPS with breadcrumbs would be a good investment. Tell someone where you are going as well. Use all the usual hiking safety rules.

You may have a new favorite!