Why Island Park Is One of the Best ATV Destinations in the West
Island Park, Idaho sits inside the largest volcanic caldera in the world — a 23-mile-wide ancient supervolcano crater that's been transformed by 600,000 years of lodgepole pine forests, alpine meadows, and river valleys. For ATV and UTV riders, this geology creates something extraordinary: over 1,000 miles of interconnected trails cutting through some of the most scenic backcountry in the Northern Rockies.
Unlike overcrowded OHV parks in the desert southwest, Island Park offers something different — cool mountain air at 6,300+ feet, golden aspen groves, creek crossings, ridge-top panoramas, and the very real possibility of spotting moose, elk, or even a bear from the seat of your side-by-side. And when the riding day is done, you're 30 minutes from Yellowstone National Park.
⭐ Island Park ATV Quick Facts
- 1,000+ miles of interconnected trails in Caribou-Targhee National Forest
- Elevation: 6,300–9,800 ft — cool mountain riding even in summer
- Season: Late May through October (peak: July–September)
- Road-legal: ATVs/UTVs allowed on most Island Park roads
- Multiple rental shops with delivery to your cabin or trailhead
The Island Park Caldera Trail System
The riding terrain here is shaped by the Yellowstone hotspot — the same volcanic system that powers Old Faithful. The Island Park Caldera collapsed 2.1 million years ago, creating a vast depression that filled with forests, rivers, and meadows. Today, the Caribou-Targhee National Forest manages hundreds of miles of designated OHV trails that weave through this landscape.
The trail network connects to the Continental Divide and extends into Montana. You can ride from Island Park through the Centennial Mountains, past Henry's Lake, along Sawtelle Peak's ridgeline, and through old-growth forests that few visitors ever see.
What makes this system special is connectivity. Unlike isolated trail parks, you can ride directly from many cabins and lodges onto the trail system — no trailering required. The road-legal ATV policy means you can ride to a restaurant for lunch, fuel up at the gas station, and continue into the backcountry.
The 7 Best ATV Trails in Island Park
1. Two Top Mountain Loop
The signature Island Park ride. This loop climbs to the summit ridge of Two Top Mountain with 360-degree panoramas of the caldera, Yellowstone Plateau, the Tetons, and the Centennial Mountains. In winter, these slopes host the famous "snow ghosts."
Best for: Intermediate riders looking for stunning views.
2. Big Springs Loop
A scenic loop through lodgepole forests passing near Big Springs — one of the largest natural springs in the world. Stop to see massive rainbow trout in crystal-clear 52°F water.
Best for: Families and beginners. Wide two-track roads, gentle terrain.
3. Sawtelle Peak Road
The highest point in the caldera at 9,866 feet. This gravel road climbs above treeline to a summit with views of Henry's Lake, the Centennial Valley, and the entire caldera. On clear days you can see the Tetons 60 miles away.
Best for: Experienced riders comfortable with elevation and exposure.
4. Centennial Mountains Trail
The Idaho-Montana border offers some of the most remote riding in the region. These trails follow the Continental Divide through alpine meadows and dense forests. Keep eyes open for grizzly bears.
Best for: Experienced riders seeking solitude and adventure. Carry bear spray and extra fuel.
5. Harriman State Park Perimeter
ATVs aren't allowed inside Harriman State Park, but the forest roads along its boundary offer beautiful riding where you'll spot trumpeter swans, moose, and sandhill cranes.
Best for: Wildlife watchers and families.
6. Mesa Falls Scenic Byway & Forest Roads
Combine forest roads with a stop at Upper and Lower Mesa Falls — two of the last undisturbed waterfalls in the Columbia River system.
Best for: Riders who want a destination ride with a spectacular natural reward.
Trail Difficulty at a Glance
| Trail | Distance | Difficulty | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Two Top Mountain | 25 mi | Moderate | Views, intermediate |
| Big Springs Loop | 18 mi | Easy–Moderate | Families, beginners |
| Sawtelle Peak | 14 mi | Mod–Hard | Experienced, panoramas |
| Centennial Mtns | 20–50 mi | Mod–Hard | Backcountry, solitude |
| Harriman Perimeter | 12 mi | Easy | Wildlife, families |
| Mesa Falls Roads | 20 mi | Easy–Mod | Destination ride |
Trail Maps & Navigation
Cell service is unreliable across most of the Island Park backcountry. Don't rely on Google Maps once you leave Highway 20 — you need offline-capable maps before you head out.
📄 Paper Maps
Old-school paper maps are still the most reliable navigation tool in the backcountry. They don't need batteries and give you the big picture.
- At our cabin: We keep paper trail maps in the cabin for guests — grab one before you ride
- Local stores & gas stations: Most shops carry Caribou-Targhee motor vehicle use maps
- Ranger stations: The Island Park Ranger District office has free motor vehicle use maps (MVUM)
📱 Avenza Maps App (Free Offline Maps)
The Avenza Maps app uses your phone's GPS to show your position on downloaded maps — no cell service required. The app is free, and the BLM/Forest Service maps are free to download.
Scan to get Avenza Maps
Maps to Download in Avenza:
- Search "Caribou-Targhee" — covers the main Island Park trail network
- Search "Ashley NF" — covers trails extending south toward the Tetons
- Search "Island Park Motorized" — motorized-specific trail overlays
- Search "West Yellowstone" — covers trails near the Montana border
Download maps over Wi-Fi at the cabin before heading out. The app works completely offline once maps are saved.
📱 Pro Tip
Download all four map sets before you leave the cabin. Trails often cross between National Forest boundaries, and having overlapping coverage means you'll never ride off the edge of your map. A portable phone charger is also essential — GPS drains batteries fast.
Where to Rent ATVs & UTVs in Island Park
You don't need to bring your own machine. Several outfitters rent ATVs, UTVs, and side-by-sides — many deliver directly to your cabin. For a full list, see our ATV & Snowmobile Rentals guide.
Island Park Adventures
📞 (208) 558-7581
ATVs, UTVs, jet skis, boats — full-service on Hwy 20
Island Park Rentals
📞 (208) 970-5048
Side-by-sides, ATVs, paddleboards — delivery available
High Mountain Adventures
📞 (208) 558-9572
Direct trail access from Sawtelle Peak Road
Eagle Ridge Ranch
📞 (208) 558-0219
UTV tours, ATVs, horses — guided options available
💰 Rental Pricing (Typical)
- ATV (single rider): $150–$250/day
- UTV/Side-by-side (2–4 seat): $300–$500/day
- 6-seat UTV: $450–$650/day
- Half-day rates typically available — ask when booking
Prices vary by vendor, season, and machine. Book early for July–August.
ATV Rules & Regulations in Island Park
Island Park is exceptionally ATV-friendly, but there are rules to follow.
Idaho OHV Requirements
- OHV sticker required — non-residents $20/year or $30 for 30-day temp permit
- Valid driver's license required for road riding
- Liability insurance required for road use
- Slow-moving vehicle emblem required on rear
- Helmets required for riders under 18
- Stay on designated trails — no cross-country riding
⚠️ Where ATVs Are NOT Allowed
- • Yellowstone National Park — no OHVs anywhere
- • Grand Teton National Park — no OHVs
- • Harriman State Park — no motorized vehicles on trails
- • Wilderness areas — Winegar Hole, Jedediah Smith
- • Paved highways — except where specifically permitted
Riding Tips & Safety
Carry Bear Spray
You're in grizzly country. Bear spray should be accessible, not buried in a bag.
Watch the Weather
Afternoon thunderstorms are common June–August. Start rides early for high-elevation trails.
Fuel Up
Gas stations are limited. Fill up before heading into backcountry. Carry extra fuel on longer rides.
Tell Someone Your Route
Cell service is spotty in the backcountry. Leave your planned route and expected return time.
Dust Protection
Trails get dusty in August. Bring goggles or a face covering, especially riding in a group.
Pack Layers
Temperature can swing 30°F from valley to ridge. Even in July, mornings at 9,000 ft are cool.
For more on wildlife safety and bear awareness, check our dedicated safety guide. And for packing advice, see our weather & packing page.
ATV Season by Month
Late May – June
Lower-elevation trails open first. High-elevation may have snow until mid-June. Wildflowers start blooming, trails uncrowded.
July – August
Peak season. All trails open, longest days. Book rentals early. Afternoon thunderstorms common — plan high-elevation rides for morning.
September
The best month for riding. Aspens turn gold, temps are perfect (50–70°F), dust settles, crowds thin, elk bugling echoes through valleys.
October
Late fall riding is weather-dependent. First snows can close high-elevation trails by mid-October. Layer up and watch forecasts.
Once snow flies, these same trails become world-class snowmobile routes. Island Park is a year-round motorized recreation destination.
Your ATV Basecamp: Lodgepole Pines Retreat
Our Lodgepole Pines cabin sits right in the heart of Island Park's riding country. Many trails are accessible directly from local roads — no trailering needed. After a long day on the trails, come back to a hot tub, full kitchen, fire pit, and mountain views.
Book Your ATV Adventure Basecamp
Save up to 10% when you book directly. Full kitchen, hot tub, fire pit, and trail access from your door.
Check Availability →Frequently Asked Questions
Can you ride ATVs on roads in Island Park?
Yes. Island Park allows ATVs and UTVs on most local roads, including portions of Highway 20. Riders must have a valid driver's license, insurance, and a visible slow-moving vehicle emblem.
Where can I rent an ATV in Island Park?
Several outfitters offer rentals including Island Park Adventures, Island Park Rentals, and High Mountain Adventures. Most deliver to your cabin or trailhead.
What are the best ATV trails in Island Park?
Top trails include Two Top Mountain Loop, Big Springs Loop, Sawtelle Peak Road, Centennial Mountains Trail, and Mesa Falls Scenic Byway. Over 1,000 miles of riding trails.
When is ATV season in Island Park?
Late May through October. Peak season is July through September. In winter, the same trails become snowmobile routes.
Do I need a permit to ride ATVs in Island Park?
Non-resident OHV riders need a Temporary Non-Resident Permit ($30 for 30 days). Buy at local vendors, gas stations, or online through Idaho Parks and Recreation.