Maryland's geography spans from the Atlantic coastal plain through the Chesapeake tidal region to the Appalachian Mountains in the far west. That diversity of terrain creates riding opportunities in the western mountain counties that are not obvious to riders who associate Maryland primarily with its coastal and suburban character. Garrett County in the far western tip of the state has the most developed OHV riding infrastructure, with state forest access and terrain that rivals neighboring West Virginia and Pennsylvania.
Maryland OHV Laws
Maryland requires ATV registration through the Maryland Department of Natural Resources for operating on public land. The registration decal must be displayed on the vehicle. Maryland ATV registration is biennial.
Maryland requires helmets for all ATV operators and passengers at managed OHV areas, regardless of age. Eye protection is also required. No driver's license is required for off-road ATV operation in Maryland. Operators under 16 must complete an ATV safety education course before operating on public trails.
Where to Ride in Maryland
Garrett State Forest (Oakland)
Garrett State Forest and the adjacent Savage River State Forest in Garrett County in far western Maryland are the primary OHV riding destinations in the state. The terrain is Appalachian mountain country: hardwood ridges, creek crossings, rocky forest roads, and elevations reaching 3,300 feet on the highest ridges. The Maryland Forest Service has designated OHV routes within these state forests that provide intermediate to advanced terrain through some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in the state. The Deep Creek Lake area nearby provides a tourist infrastructure that supports OHV riding trips to western Maryland.
Pocomoke State Forest (Lower Eastern Shore)
Pocomoke State Forest on Maryland's lower Eastern Shore near Snow Hill has forest road access and limited OHV-designated routes through flat coastal plain forest. The terrain is very different from western Maryland: longleaf pine and baldcypress swamp landscape, flat to gently rolling, with sandy soils that drain quickly. This is beginner terrain that suits riders who want to ride close to the Delaware and lower Eastern Shore communities.
Private Facilities
Private OHV facilities in central and western Maryland supplement the public land access. Several facilities in Carroll, Frederick, and western Maryland counties provide day-use and membership access. Search for Maryland ATV parks for current options in your region.
Practical Tips for Maryland Riding
Western Maryland mountain riding season is April through November. The high elevations at Garrett and Savage River State Forests can receive significant snowfall, closing upper trails from December through March. Eastern Shore terrain is accessible year-round in mild winters. Maryland helmet requirements are enforced at managed OHV areas. Check Maryland DNR for current trail status before visiting any state forest OHV area.
The Right Bike for Maryland
Western Maryland mountain terrain suits the Altis Sigma for intermediate riders and the Altis Omega for advanced riders tackling the more technical Garrett Forest routes. Eastern Shore forest road riding suits the Altis Delta or Sigma. VoroMotors is available seven days a week to help you plan the right setup for Maryland riding.