Since the establishment of Yellowstone National Park in 1872 and the National Park Service in 1916, the USA's National Parks have become an important part of the landscape, drawing millions of visitors from all over the world.

From the rocky Atlantic coastline in Acadia National Park in Maine to the Gates of the Arctic in Alaska -- and everywhere in between -- these protected lands are a national treasure. By visiting national parks in the United States, you can experience almost every kind of geography in the USA. With so many acres of wilderness waiting out there, you can hike, bike, swim, climb, or drive your way around the national parks -- but what about four-wheeling? 

Off-Roading in National Parks

The use of what the NPS calls ORVs (off-road vehicles) is strictly regulated in all national parks. The number one rule of riding ATVs in a national park? Follow the National Park Service and individual park rules! Don't ride where it isn't specifically permitted. Doing so risks disrupting plant life, animal habitats or even harming wildlife. 

Many national parks don't allow ATVs, UTVs, or other off-road vehicles at all, though some other federal lands allow access. Each park has its own rules, so check those first, before planning your trip. 

Pick Your Park 

If you're eyeing a national park with a no-ATVs rule, but the surrounding area has trails galore, then why not combine your adventures and get the best of both activities? In Maine, you can't ride UTVs (or other motorized recreational vehicles) in Acadia National Park - but there are plenty more trails around New England to explore on four-wheelers. Why not enjoy the national park and then explore Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont by ATV? This is the perfect trip for anyone hauling a camper conversion UTV trailer.

In the Southwest USA, take an ATV adventure excursion to the North Rim of the canyon. Arizona is full of wide open spaces to explore on four-wheelers -- and many of the most recommended trails are free to visitors! Hitch on your side by side trailer and head for Arizona for warm weather, stunning views, multiple national parks and monuments to explore on foot or by car, and sprawling off-road adventures.    

A few national parks permit limited ATV access to selected trails, including a handful of national forests -- like Ozark National Forest's Mill Creek Trails in Arkansas, or the Ocala National Forest Trail System in Florida. With over 11 million visitors a year, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee and North Carolina is the most-visited national park in the USA. It's also home to some fun ATV opportunities! Check out the Cades Cove Loop Road, with historic buildings to visit along the loop road and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. You might even spot some whitetail deer or a black bear along the way! 

Do This, Not That 

The NPS created an off-road readiness checklist. These common sense readiness steps will help you have a safe and successful ride in or around national parks. Always make sure you review designated access points and routes within a park, and obtain any applicable permits for your visit. Pack your safety gear, water, all paperwork (like a park permit, vehicle registration and insurance), and and always be prepared for a safety inspection or equipment check if you meet a park ranger along the way. 

Learn the rules for the park you're visiting and any other activities you're doing, like state/federal traffic rules that apply to four-wheeling. Always drive with respect for others and for the environment, following the "leave no trace" principle and packing out your trash, staying on designated trails, and leaving the wilderness as you found it. 

ATV & Side by Side Trailers

Ready to explore the national parks and do some off-roading along the way? If you still need a trailer, don't worry -- check out our buyer's guide, visit our brand sites to and check out our lineup of open and enclosed trailers for side by sides and ATVs, and then you're ready to find your ALCOM dealer.

With options like a UTV rack for solo trips, all the way up to a Pinnacle series enclosed UTV hauler, ALCOM has the right trailer for your outdoor adventures. Our network of over 450 dealers across the USA and Canada means we have the trailer you need, when and where you need it. Reach out to your local dealer to get started and we'll help you find your ideal aluminum ATV/UTV trailer.