With thousands of miles of open desert, rugged mountain terrain, and historic backroads, Inyo County is one of California’s premier destinations for off-highway vehicle (OHV) recreation. Whether you’re riding an ATV, UTV, dirt bike, or street-legal 4×4, you’ll find everything from scenic desert routes and historic mining roads to challenging backcountry trails.
From the Alabama Hills to the vast landscapes surrounding Death Valley National Park, Inyo County offers unforgettable opportunities to explore responsibly.
Popular OHV Areas
Alabama Hills
Just west of Lone Pine, the Alabama Hills feature a network of dirt roads winding through iconic rock formations beneath Mount Whitney. Most roads are suitable for high-clearance vehicles, while others are ideal for street-legal OHVs. Riders should remain on designated roads and respect seasonal closures and restoration areas.
Reward Mine & Cerro Gordo
Historic mining roads leading toward Reward Mine and the ghost town of Cerro Gordo offer adventurous routes with incredible views of the Owens Valley. These roads can be rough and require appropriate vehicles and careful planning.
Swansea & Owens Lake
Explore the historic Swansea townsite and surrounding Owens Lake area using designated roads that pass through mining history, desert landscapes, and unique habitats. Stay on established routes to help protect sensitive cultural and environmental resources.
Last Chance Canyon & El Paso Mountains
Located near the southern edge of Inyo County, these routes are popular for OHV enthusiasts seeking historic mines, colorful desert scenery, and technical terrain.
Death Valley Gateway Roads
Outside Death Valley National Park, numerous county and BLM roads provide opportunities for scenic OHV exploration. Inside the national park, OHVs may only operate where vehicles licensed for highway use are legally permitted.
What Can You Explore?
OHV riders can discover:
- Historic mining districts
- Ghost towns
- Desert canyons
- Mountain passes
- Scenic overlooks
- Remote camping areas
- Wildlife viewing opportunities
- Photography locations
Know Before You Ride
Conditions can change quickly throughout Inyo County. Before heading out:
- Check current road and weather conditions.
- Carry extra water, food, fuel, and emergency supplies.
- Download maps or carry paper maps, as cell service is limited.
- Tell someone where you’re going and when you plan to return.
- Respect private property and posted closures.
Many routes travel through remote areas where help may be hours away.
Ride Responsibly
Help protect Inyo County’s public lands by practicing responsible recreation.
- Stay on designated roads and motorized routes.
- Never create new trails or drive over vegetation.
- Respect wildlife and livestock.
- Slow down when passing hikers, cyclists, horseback riders, and other vehicles.
- Yield appropriately on shared routes.
- Pack out everything you bring in.
- Help prevent wildfires by avoiding parking over dry vegetation and ensuring your vehicle has a properly functioning spark arrestor where required.
- Respect historic and cultural sites by leaving artifacts where you find them.
By riding responsibly, you help preserve access for future generations while protecting the landscapes that make Inyo County a world-class OHV destination.
Before You Go
Many OHV routes cross lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management, Inyo National Forest, and other agencies. Regulations, seasonal closures, and route designations vary by location.
Always verify current trail information, closures, and land management regulations before your trip, and ensure your vehicle meets California OHV registration requirements where applicable.
