Lolo National Forest OHV
Lolo National Forest surrounds Missoula, Montana, encompassing 2.1 million acres of the northern Rocky Mountain terrain from the Clark Fork River valley north toward the Bitterroot Divide and east into the Blackfoot watershed. The forest's motorized OHV road and trail network follows the Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) designation system, riders are permitted on roads and trails specifically designated for motorized use, with all travel restricted to these designated routes. The Seeley Lake corridor in the Mission Mountains foothills is among the most popular sections for OHV riders, connecting Cottonwood Lakes Road and Rice Ridge Road through dense conifer and larch forest at elevations that provide relief from summer valley heat. The Garnet Mountains area east of Missoula offers additional OHV-accessible routes through historic mining country. Motorcycles, ATVs, and UTVs are permitted on designated routes; width and horsepower restrictions vary by specific trail designation. Motor Vehicle Use Maps are the essential navigation tool and are available free at Lolo NF ranger district offices in Missoula, Seeley Lake, Plains, Superior, and Thompson Falls. Contact the Lolo National Forest Supervisor's Office (406-329-3750) for district-specific OHV information and current conditions.