If you're planning a trip to Pike National Forest, don't forget to tote your ATV with you so you can check out Power Line Motorized ATV Trail.
This ATV trail is a good alternative if your ATV isn't quite street legal for Rampart Road, and it connects with other ATV trails in the area. Since this ATV trail is rated intermediate to expert it's probably a good point to do a little ATV safety review.
First of all, if you're going to ride an expert level rated ATV trail, then you had better be sure you know how to handle the ATV. An expert trail is no place to learn the basics. Take the time to develop your ATV riding skills on beginner and intermediate trails, and leave expert trails alone until you're ready to run with the big dogs.
Unless you have the navigational skills of an Eagle Scout, it's a sound idea to bring a map of the ATV trail with you. A water bottle and a general first aid kit might come in handy too.
Never follow closely on the tail of the ATV in front of you, especially if you are heading up hill. If the ATV ahead of you looses traction or flips, you will be the next obstacle in line. At the least, your ATV could be damaged, and at the worst, you or your friend could get seriously hurt.
Always use caution when crossing creeks and streams with your ATV. The water may be deeper than it looks, and creeks may rise rapidly when it rains. And never ride off road into wilderness areas. Stick to the ATV trails where you belong. Spoiling wildlife area could lead to all ATVs being barred from using the trails.
Simple common sense should always be your guide when operating a powerful piece of machinery like an ATV.
