Foresthill OHV Area - (530)-478-6254 x228

During the winter months, the American River OHV system may be closed after periods of heavy rain when soil moisture levels would likely result in trail damage if riding were to occur. For the most up to date information, please call (530)-478-6254 x228

Foresthill has an outstanding, nearly 100 mile OHV trail system suitable for both motorcycles and ATVs less than 50 inches in overall width. There is little or no four-wheel-drive country on the District. The trail system is mostly easy to moderate routes, with a few miles of difficult, challenging trail. There is no flat track or motocross arena. This system is trail riding out in the woods.

Traffic on the trails is two-way and in some cases, the trails cross paved roads. Please be aware that unless you have a State driver’s license with motorcycle endorsement and your motorcycle is street legal and insured, riding on the pavement (except going straight across at "official" crossings mentioned above) is prohibited.

There are three Staging Areas to access the trail system. Parker Flat and Sugar Pine Staging Areas, accessed by driving nine miles east of Foresthill on the Foresthill Divide road, then turning left on the Sugar Pine road, and traveling 3.5 miles to the staging areas, provide access to the majority of the trails and are best suited for families and for riders new to the trail system.

China Wall Staging area is located approximately 14 miles east of Foresthill on the Foresthill Divide road, and is the best access for loops 5 and 6, which are the most difficult routes in the system and are for motorcycles only. During winter, China Wall is a good place for snowmobile staging.

OHVs are required to have current proof of registration, as well as a USFS approved spark arrestor year round. For complete details about green sticker (registration) requirements, visit the California DMV or the CA State Parks Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Division. Riders from out-of-state must have proof of registration from their home state, or a CA non-resident OHV permit.

The Foresthill OHV trail system map is available for download as a PDF document from our Maps and Publications page.

Beginning fall of 2020, the Sugar Pine Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Wet Weather Management Plan will be implemented for OHV Roads and Trails on American River Ranger District. This will increase OHV riding opportunities by adopting a more flexible open/close strategy for riding in Foresthill CA. This soil-moisture condition-based approach will help Trail Managers determine when existing OHV roads and trails should be opened or closed in the Sugar Pine Motorized Trail System area. The associated operating plan will minimize resource damage caused by travel during wet weather periods. The removal of the fixed wet weather seasonal closure dates are expected to reduce future sediment delivery and improve water quality. Up to date closure status can be found at the voicemail (530)-478-6254 x228. During fall and winter months, please check this number frequently to get up to date OHV riding opportunities and closure status

At a Glance