Where can I ride an ATV near West Yellowstone?
Railroad Right-of-Way Trail
Following an old railroad bed, this is a fun easy ATV trail with fantastic views of the area.
- Length: Just under 38 miles one way with options for shorter trips if you stop at Island Park.
- Difficulty: Easy.
- Directions: This trail begins at Warm River Campground (just 10 miles northeast of Ashton along the Mesa Falls Scenic Byway) and ends at Reas Pass (8 miles southwest of West Yellowstone at the end of South Fork Road).
- Maps: Pick up a map at a local Caribou-Targhee National Forest office in either Ashton or Island Park.
Lionshead
It's incredibly scenic, popular, steep, and easy to access. This is a local's favorite.
- Length: 16 miles
- Difficulty: Easy to Difficult (the last section to the top of the mountain is very steep).
- Directions: From West Yellowstone, head east along Hwy 20 for about 7 miles. Turn onto Denny Creek Road and follow it 1.5 miles to the trailhead.
- Maps: Beartooth Publishing makes a very detailed Recreation Map for Purchase.
Two Top Mountain
From the east side of Targhee Pass, this stunning trail heads south and offers views in all directions.
- Length: 30 mile loop
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Directions: This loop begins in Montana and quickly crosses the Idaho border. Follow directions to Lionshead above but head south from the highway instead of north. The trail will meet up with the Two Top Loop Trail in a few miles.
- Maps: Pick up a map at a local Caribou-Targhee National Forest office in either Ashton or Island Park or the Gallatin National Forest office in West Yellowstone.
Do I need a permit or license?
OHVs must be properly registered in the resident's home state. Non-registered OHVs may be operated with a permit. Check Idaho and Montana regulations before you ride.
