Massachusetts Dirt Bike Riding Trails

Dirt bike riders in Massachusetts have two main options when it comes to enjoying their sport. The first is mostly privately owned tracks around the state. They also can ride on trails on public lands. The majority of these trails are in state forests. These forests are located throughout the state and feature a variety of terrain in scenic areas. They also have the advantage of usually being free of charge.

  1. Beartown State Forest

    • Located in the southwestern corner of the state, the Beartown State Forest has approximately 25 miles of all-purpose ATV trails. There are no restrictions for dirt bikes on the trails, which are open for bikers from May 1 through the last Sunday of November. The trails can be used during daylight hours only and bikers must stay on designated trails. The trails can also not be directly accessed from the campground, which consists of 12 campsites near a pond where swimming, fishing and boats without motors are permitted. The Beartown State Forest has over 12,000 acres, and features wildlife such as deer, bear and bobcat.

    Freetown-Fall River State Forest

    • The Freetown-Fall River State Forest, which is located in the southeastern part of the state in Fall River, has 25 miles of trails for dirt bikers. The trails are mostly rocky and are rated moderate to very difficult. No ATVs are allowed on these trails. Located next to the ranger station is a parking lot, picnic area, bathrooms and a wading pond. The trails wind through forested areas and are open from May 1 through the last Sunday of November. The 5,441-acre forest does not have a campground but does have fishing in Rattlesnake Brook. Horseback riders, dog sledders and snowmobile riders are welcome along with dirt bikers.

    October Mountain State Forest

    • October Mountain State Forest in the western part of the state is the largest state forest in Massachusetts with 16,500 acres. The forest has 30 miles of ATV trails open to dirt bikers from May 1 through the last Sunday of November. The park has several staging areas for the trails, which are mostly rated for novices and amateurs, although some parts are also for experts. The Appalachian Trail goes through October Mountain State Forest, which has 47 campsites in a hilly area. The forest also has bears and features the scenic Schermerhorn Gorge.

    Pittsfield State Forest

    • The Pittsfield State Forest in the western part of the state has 45 miles of trails available for dirt bikes that go through forests and offer views of waterfalls. The trails cross several streams and are mostly for amateurs. A permit is required for dirt bikes, but there is no charge. The trails are open from May 1 until the end of November. The trails are also open to snowmobiles in the winter months. The Pittsfield Start Forest has two campgrounds. It also has two areas for picnics and a beach where visitors are permitted to swim. Berry Pond, which is one of the highest bodies of water in the state, is a popular spot for fishing.