Mike McGarity, CORVA President

Recent headlines about opening national forest trails to motorized recreation have generated considerable interest among California’s off-road community. A federal policy change is being considered, but the announcement does not open currently closed trails to dirt bikes, ATVs, side-by-sides, or four-wheel-drive vehicles. The Forest Service’s proposal would favor appropriate public access while retaining legal restrictions and allowing closures supported by documented conditions. Existing motor-vehicle designations and maps would remain effective until revised.

The August 24 federal notice began environmental review and rulemaking. It contemplates reconsideration of closed or highly restricted routes, simpler procedures, and conditional access for activities such as dispersed camping and firewood collection. The initial comment period ended September 23, 2026. USDA anticipates releasing a proposed rule and draft environmental impact statement in spring 2027, followed by a final rule in early 2028. That schedule is subject to change. These dates are rulemaking milestones, not promised trail-opening dates.

For California riders, the practical opportunity is to identify specific access needs in forests such as Sierra, Sequoia, Stanislaus, Eldorado, Tahoe, Mendocino, and San Bernardino. A missing connection between legal routes, access to a dispersed campsite, or a trail awaiting repair may deserve attention. CORVA encourages members and clubs to document these needs with route numbers, maps, photographs, and information about how access would benefit the public. Clear proposals supported by local knowledge can help focus discussions with forest managers.

Until an authorized change takes effect, members must continue following applicable Motor Vehicle Use Maps, vehicle restrictions, seasonal limitations, and current forest orders. Sierra National Forest specifically directs visitors to consult its MVUM and cautions that opening and closing dates can change because of weather and safety conditions. A visible road, an old track, or a route shown in a recreation app should never be assumed to authorize motorized travel.

CORVA is asking members to contact their local national forest or ranger district and ask whether any new or restored OHV opportunities are expected to open soon. Ask to speak with the recreation, OHV, or trails staff. Find out whether the forest has approved new motorized routes, plans to reopen routes following repairs, is considering additional trail connections, or has upcoming projects that could improve OHV access. Ask what opportunities may become available during the coming months or the next riding season and whether public comments or volunteer assistance would help.

When discussing a potential opening, request the route name and number, location, permitted vehicle types, anticipated opening date, and any remaining approvals or work. Ask whether the opportunity is merely being considered, formally approved, or actually open for public use. A seasonal reopening should also be distinguished from a newly authorized motorized route. Request a written response, official project link, decision document, or updated map whenever possible.

Please report what you learn to CORVA. Forward the forest’s response and supporting materials to CORVA leadership or your field representative, including the ranger district, staff contact, and date of the conversation. This information will help CORVA verify potential opportunities, identify where advocacy or volunteer support could help, and share accurate updates with members. If an opening date remains uncertain, please make that clear. Send to: admin@corva.org.

Responsible recreation and expanded access belong together. CORVA encourages clubs to bring practical solutions to these conversations, including trail maintenance, drainage improvements, signage, restoration, and stewardship partnerships. By working with local forest staff and sharing verified information, members can help turn access needs into concrete proposals while protecting the places we enjoy.

CORVA remains committed to “Protecting Public Land FOR the people, not FROM the people.” Contact your local national forest, ask what OHV opportunities may be coming, and help keep CORVA informed.