ATV Fun = Ride, Explore, Enjoy
If you enjoy riding your ATV or side-by-side and love exploring the outdoors, Lake of the Woods is the perfect destination for your next adventure. Whether you’re an experienced rider or just getting started, this area offers thousands of acres of public land, hundreds of miles of trails, and beautiful sights in every direction.
Some riders choose to stay at a resort where they can drive their ATV or UTV right from the front door onto the trail system. Others prefer trailering their machines into one of our scenic state forests and riding from there. Either way, you’ll find great trails, light traffic, and plenty of opportunities to explore.
A Growing Sport for All Ages
ATV riding has grown in popularity with people of all ages. Whether you’re young or young-at-heart, Lake of the Woods offers unforgettable riding experiences. From wide open gravel roads to scenic forest trails, there’s something for everyone.
For maps, trail info, and more outdoor adventures, visit www.LakeoftheWoodsMN.com. Click on “Outdoor Adventures” to find the ATV page, where you’ll discover a variety of trail maps, scenic drives, and helpful resources for planning your trip.
Where Can You Ride?
Here are just a few highlights:
- Beltrami Island State Forest (west of Baudette): 66,903 acres
- Pine Island State Forest (east of Baudette): 878,040 acres
- Northwest Angle State Forest (north end of Lake of the Woods County): 144,412 acres
Together, these forests offer an incredible amount of open space and trails for outdoor exploration.
Faunce Tower and the Bankton Trails
One of the most popular areas to ride is near Faunce Tower, located in Beltrami Island State Forest. The Bankton Forest Road system, south of Williams and Roosevelt, includes about 238 miles of trails. This vast network follows county roads, township roads, ditch banks, and old logging routes. Locals often know additional back roads that offer even more great riding.
The trails are especially popular during the summer and fall months and are known for their scenic beauty and peacefulness.
Explore History on the Homesteaders Trail
Along the Bankton Forest Road lies the Homesteaders Trail, a route rich in history. Years ago, families claimed land in the area and built a small community called Bankton. They logged timber, farmed the land, and lived off the natural resources.
Today, you can still see signs of this old settlement. Willow and lilac bushes mark former homesites. Two historic cemeteries — Hamilton Farm (also called Germanson Cemetery) and Bankton (also known as God’s Acre Cemetery) — remain as reminders of the past. Informational signs along the road tell the story and show the locations of these special places.
Tips for Your Trip
- Many resorts in the Lake of the Woods area have lodging and amenities for ATV travelers
- Some even allow you to drive your ATV directly from your cabin or campsite to the trail.
- If you’re staying in town or farther from the trails, trailering your ATV is easy and convenient.
- Trails are also great for mountain bikers and other outdoor adventurers.
Come for the Fishing, Stay for the Trails
Lake of the Woods is known as the Walleye Capital of the World, but there’s so much more to enjoy. After you’ve had your fill of world-class fishing, hop on your ATV and explore the forests and backroads of northern Minnesota. It’s an unforgettable way to experience the area’s natural beauty.
Plan Your Adventure Today
See our website at: www.LakeoftheWoodsMN.com
View our Lodging page at: www.LakeoftheWoodsMN.com/lodging
Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/LakeoftheWoodsMN
Come explore Lake of the Woods — by land and by water!
