Due to the ruling in January 2006 that made state and federally managed lands off limits to 4-wheeler riders, 4-wheeling enthusiasts needed a new place to ride their machines. The price for riding your 4-wheeler on a now protected land is high - it comes with a hefty fine that will rival the cost of your 4-wheeler and if it is your second or more offense, possible jail time as 4-wheeler riders will be charged with criminal trespassing and that is a class A misdemeanor. Higby Hollow was opened to meet the need of 4-wheeler riders and is located in Middletown, Connecticut.
This fun riding destination has a full day of fun riding up and around Mount Higby. The cost is just $20 per day per 4-wheeler and there is not only fun hills and obstacles to climb; there is also room for racing and beginner riding areas as well.
There are other private areas in the making to open to meet the needs of 4-wheeling enthusiasts that want a place to ride their machines. In order to ride legally at other locations in the State of Connecticut you must adhere to the following rules and regulations: Your 4-wheeler must be registered to the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles. The only exception to this rule is if you will be only operating the vehicle on your own private lands. In compliance with 4-wheeler regulations all ATV must be equipped with a muffler in order to reduce noise levels and must be equipped with proper brakes and working brake lights. As of 2006, the registration fee for a 4-wheeler is $ 14 for a two-year registration, plus the $10 Clean Air Act fee.
Connecticut has gone to the extreme to protect their state and federally managed lands from the adverse actions of a few irresponsible 4-wheeler riders. If you are a member of a riding group or you just want to ensure the trails you love to ride stay open; do all you can to keep the trails clean, maintained and in turn this will help them stay open for all riders. If there isn't a group in your area, get together with other riders and consider forming your own group to take charge of the riding conditions in your area. If everyone does their part, the trails will stay environmentally healthy and open for 4-wheelers everywhere.
