How to Go Four-Wheeling in the Sand Dunes of Idaho

Idaho is home to the St. Anthony Sand Dunes. These expansive dunes stretch across the high desert for 15 miles and reach points as high as 400 feet. The 10,000 acres of shifting sand offer a variety of recreational activities including the most popular sport, four-wheeling.

Things You'll Need

• ATV registration sticker
• Orange or red safety flag

Instructions

1. Plan your trip to the St. Anthony Sand Dunes during the open season. The dunes are open to the public from April to November, but check the Web site (see Resources, below) for specific dates.

2. Make reservations for a campsite or motel before you leave on your trip.

3. Drive to the dunes. It is possible to camp at the dunes, as both public and private camping areas are available. There are also a few resorts that offer campsites for RVs.

4. Be sure you have a valid registration sticker for your ATV or off-road vehicle from your home state. If you are not from Idaho the sticker will be valid in Idaho for 30 days. If you do not have one you can apply for an out-of-state tag while in Idaho.

5. Rent an ATV. There are rentals available near the sand dunes.

6. Attach a red or orange flag to your vehicle with an 8-foot whip mast. This is required by law and is for your own safety.

7. Ride your vehicle within the designated riding areas and be sure to follow the speed regulations. Have fun!

Tips & Warnings

• The Sand Hills Resort (see Resources, below) is a great place to stay at the dunes, especially if you have an RV. The resort offers many amenities such as showers, a playground for children, shaded campsites and full hookups for RVs. If you are considering staying at this resort, be sure to make reservations because it fills up quickly.

• Four-wheeling can be dangerous. Be sure to follow all rules outlined by the Bureau of Land Management, which runs and maintains the dunes. The rules are there for you own safety as well as for the preservation of the environment. See their Web site (see Resources, below), or call for a full list of rules and regulations.