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In partnership with Tread Lightly! and Arizona State Parks and Trails, the Arizona Office of Tourism is sharing how you can responsibly enjoy the outdoors while visiting Arizona's vast and diverse outdoor environments by off-highway vehicle (OHV). In this series, we break down each of the T.R.E.A.D principles.
E - Educate Yourself
When you hit the trails on an off-highway vehicle (OHV), one of the first things you should do is educate yourself. Follow these tips to ensure you're an educated driver.
- Obtain a map (motor vehicle use map where appropriate) of your destination and determine which areas are open to ATVs.
- Make a realistic plan and stick to it. Always tell someone of your travel plans.
- Contact the land manager for area restrictions, closures and permit requirements.
- Check the weather forecast before you go. Prepare for the unexpected by packing a small backpack full of emergency items.
- Wear a helmet, eye protection and other safety gear.
- Know your limitations. Watch your time, your fuel and your energy.
- Take a class or the ATV Rider Course that provides a fast-paced, half-day, hands-on training session. Call the ATV Enrollment Express toll-free at 1-800-887-2887 to enroll.
- Make sure your ATV is mechanically up to the task. Be prepared with tools, supplies, spares and a spill kit for trailside repairs.
- Buckle up! Seat belts are mandatory.
- Take an off-highway drivers course to learn more about negotiating terrain in a four-wheel drive vehicle.
For even more great educational resources, check out Arizona State Parks and Trails Where to Ride page.
About Tread Lightly!
Tread Lightly! is a non-profit organization that leads a national initiative to promote the responsible use of motorized vehicles when recreating outdoors. Their goal is to balance the off-road and off-highway vehicle (OHV) users’ need for adventure with the need to conserve the places where they ride and explore.
To support this, they offer a wide range of projects, programs, trainings, and educational materials to promote a responsible outdoor recreation message. Their work includes educating off-road and OHV users on responsible riding practices, reducing the impact on the environment and protecting natural and cultural resources.
Header image credit: An Pham
Arizona Office of Tourism
These articles are brought to you by the staff of the Arizona Office of Tourism, and occasionally local tourism organizations around the state.
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