Illinois may not be known for its off-road trails, but the state has some hidden gems for dirt bike enthusiasts. From beginner-friendly routes to challenging single tracks, there are plenty of options for riders of all skill levels. Here are the top 10 dirt bike trails in Illinois.
- Little Egypt Off Road – Marion Little Egypt Off Road offers a total of 10 miles of dirt bike trails that range in difficulty from easy to challenging. This location is perfect for beginners and experienced riders alike, as there is something for everyone. The trails are open year-round and are located just a few miles from Marion, Illinois. Little Egypt Off Road also offers camping, so you can stay close to the action.
- Fox Valley Off Road – Ottawa Located just a few miles from Ottawa, Fox Valley Off Road offers 14 miles of trails that are specifically designed for dirt bikes. The trails are challenging and should only be tackled by experienced riders. There is no camping at this location, but there are plenty of hotels in the nearby city.
- Lincoln Trail Motosports – Casey Lincoln Trail Motosports is home to over 20 miles of trails that range from easy to difficult. The trails are open year-round and are specifically designed for dirt bikes. This location is perfect for riders of all skill levels, and there is even a pee-wee track for younger riders. Camping is available at Lincoln Trail Motosports.
- Buffalo Range Off Road Park – Ottawa Buffalo Range Off Road Park offers over 20 miles of trails that are specifically designed for dirt bikes. The trails range in difficulty from easy to challenging, so there is something for everyone. This location is perfect for riders who want a challenging ride, as the trails are not for beginners. Camping is available at Buffalo Range Off Road Park.
- Cliffs Insane Terrain Off Road Park – Marseilles Cliffs Insane Terrain Off Road Park offers over 10 miles of trails that are specifically designed for dirt bikes. The trails range in difficulty from easy to difficult, so there is something for everyone. This location is perfect for riders who want a challenging ride, as the trails are not for beginners. Camping is available at Cliffs Insane Terrain Off Road Park.
- The Badlands Off Road Park – Attica The Badlands Off Road Park offers over 800 acres of trails that are specifically designed for dirt bikes. The trails range in difficulty from easy to extreme, so there is something for everyone. This location is perfect for riders who want a challenging ride, as the trails are not for beginners. Camping is available at The Badlands Off Road Park.
- Sahara Woods State Fish and Wildlife Area – Carrier Mills Sahara Woods State Fish and Wildlife Area offers 8 miles of trails that are specifically designed for dirt bikes. The trails range in difficulty from easy to difficult, so there is something for everyone. This location is perfect for riders of all skill levels, and there is even a pee-wee track for younger riders. Camping is available at Sahara Woods State Fish and Wildlife Area.
- Rocky Glen OHV Park – Rockford Rocky Glen OHV Park offers over 120 acres of trails that are specifically designed for dirt bikes. The trails range in difficulty from easy to difficult, so there is something for everyone. This location is perfect for riders who want a challenging ride, as the trails are not for beginners. There is no camping at this location, but there are plenty of hotels in the nearby city.
- Harrisburg Motorcross Park – Harrisburg Harrisburg Motorcross Park offers over 30 acres of trails that are specifically designed for dirt bikes. The trails range in difficulty from easy to difficult, so there is something for everyone. This location is perfect for riders of all skill levels, and there is even a pee-wee track for younger riders. Camping is available at Harrisburg Motorcross Park.
- Ki Tracks MX – Oregon Ki Tracks MX offers over 15 miles of trails that are specifically designed for dirt bikes. The trails range in difficulty from easy to difficult, so there is something for everyone. This location is perfect for riders who want a challenging ride, as the trails are not for beginners. There is no camping at this location, but there are plenty of hotels in the nearby city.
When planning a trip to any of these dirt bike trails, it’s important to pack the right gear and safety equipment. Here’s a list of items you should bring:
- Helmet
- Gloves
- Goggles
- Boots
- Protective gear (chest protector, knee pads, elbow pads)
- First aid kit
- Water
- Snacks
- Tool kit
- Spare parts (spark plugs, fuses, etc.)
It’s also important to check the weather conditions and trail status before heading out. Some trails may be closed due to inclement weather or maintenance. Always ride with a buddy and let someone know where you’re going and when you plan to return.
Illinois may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking about dirt bike trails, but there are plenty of options for riders of all skill levels. From beginner-friendly routes to challenging single tracks, these top 10 dirt bike trails offer something for everyone. Just remember to pack the right gear and safety equipment and always ride responsibly.