Got Your Bitterroot National Forest Travel Map?

The forest travel plan, approved May 11, 2016, designates 2,246 miles of forest roads and trails open to motorized use, nearly the driving distance between Hamilton and New York City.  It also permits motorized over-snow use (snowmobiles) on 543,840 acres, approximately one-third of the forest.  These areas are designated on individual Ranger District Motor Vehicle Use Map's (MVUM), Over-Snow Vehicle Use Map (OSVUM) North and Over-Snow Vehicle Use Map (OSVUM) South now available free of charge at all Bitterroot National Forest offices.  The new maps identify which areas are open to motorized use, the types of vehicles allowed and any seasonal restrictions that apply.  

Roads and trails that are not open for motorized use are not shown on the map. Most scenic overlooks, dispersed campsites, historical sites and popular areas are still accessible to motorized users.

“The new travel plan is well crafted and incorporates public comments received throughout the entire process.  This plan will provide quality recreation experiences for both motorized and non-motorized users, reduce conflicts, and protect the forest’s natural resources and wildlife,” said Forest Supervisor Julie King.  “I urge all motorized users to obtain a free motor vehicle use map from their local Forest Service office before going out so they know where they can ride. Riders are responsible to know which routes are open.”

Under the new travel plan motorized travel off the designated routes is no longer allowed. However, motorized access to dispersed camping is allowed within 300 feet of most roads.  Staying on the designated routes provides positive benefits to wildlife, water and other natural resources and social values.

The free maps are available at Forest Service offices in Stevensville, Hamilton, Darby, and West Fork.

Some Tips for Using the New Travel Maps

The travel maps provide limited geographic detail and should be used in combination with the Bitterroot National Forest Maps to more clearly locate and identify the routes shown on the MVUM/OSVUM.

During this first season, motorized users may discover instances where the maps do not match the new Bitterroot National Forest Travel Plan or the MVUM/OSVUM are incorrect. We want to know where these situations occur so they can be corrected for next year. Please notify the local District Ranger of any inaccuracies in the maps.  Forms to help you record the errors are available at District Offices and at the Supervisor’s Office in Hamilton.

MVUM-OSVUM Comments/Concerns Form

Bitterroot NF MVUM Stevensville RD  - updated May 2019  (5MB)

Bitterroot NF MVUM Darby RD - updated May 2019 (8MB)

Bitterroot NF MVUM West Fork RD - updated May 2019 (7MB)

Bitterroot NF MVUM Sula RD - updated May 2019 (7MB)

2016 Bitterroot NF Over-Snow Vehicle Use Map (OSVUM) North

2016 Bitterroot NF Over-Snow Vehicle Use Map (OSVUM) South

Travel Plan Decision – News Release

Frequently Asked Questions about Travel Management

Travel Management Plan Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) and Record of Decision (ROD)

OHV Trail Riding, Snowmobiling, and Bicycling areas on the Bitterroot National Forest