EXPLORE northerN minnesota’s superior forest FS.USDA.GOV
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iding an off highway vehicle (OHV) can be a great way to get out and enjoy the forest, particularly one as large as Minnesota’s Superior National Forest. While exploring, there are some regulations you must follow and some guidelines you’ll want to follow. Both will help you have a safe and fun ride while minimizing impact to our natural resources. WHAT IS AN OHV? An OHV is any vehicle designed for off highway travel, excluding snowmobiles. This includes, but is not restricted to: • ATVs and UTVs • Off highway motorcycles • Four wheel drive trucks and other vehicles which are also capable of highway travel. WHERE CAN I RIDE? WHAT IS MVUM? The Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) is your key clearly showing which roads and trails are open to which type of OHV, as well as any seasonal restrictions. • If a road or trail you find in the forest is not on the map, it is not legal for you to ride it, regardless of signs. • Cross country travel is not permitted. • Downloadable map files are geo-referenced for use with smart phone wayfinding apps and some GPS devices. (fs.usda.gov) HIGHLIGHTS Refer to the MVUM for details, but here are some highlights. • These regulations pertain to any vehicle designed for offhighway use traveling within the Superior National Forest, with the exception of snowmobiles. • Travel is permitted only on the roads or trails which are shown on the map. • No cross country travel is permitted. • State regulations regarding OHVs apply in the National Forest.
• Seasonal restrictions are indicated on the map. • The maps are the final authority on use. • Maps are updated annually. Make sure yours is current. • Respect posted and unposted closures. • MVUMs show permitted use only within the Superior National Forest. Features outside the Forest are only shown as a courtesy: some roads and trails may not be shown; permitted use and restrictions are neither shown nor implied. MORE ABOUT MVUM The Motor Vehicle Use Map is published annually as four doublesided map sheets. The fronts and backs of these sheets define eight areas which cover the entire Superior National Forest. Each sheet has roads and trails coded to show precisely where you can use your particular type of off highway vehicle (OHV). OPERATE RESPONSIBLY Operating a motor vehicle on National Forest System roads, National Forest System trails, and in areas on National Forest System lands carries a greater responsibility than operating that vehicle in a city or other developed setting. Not only must you know and follow all applicable traffic laws, you need to show concern for the environment as well as other forest users. The misuse of motor vehicles can lead to the temporary or permanent closure of any designated road, trail, or area. As a motor vehicle operator, you are also subject to state traffic law, including state requirements for licensing, registration, and operation of the vehicle in question.
36 Midwest Rider 2022
