Finding dedicated dirt bike parks “near me” can be challenging, especially if you’re in a metropolitan area like Minneapolis. While the immediate vicinity might not boast a plethora of motocross havens, there are definitely accessible and thrilling riding destinations within a reasonable drive. If you’re itching to ride and searching for “Dirt Bike Parks Near Me” around Minneapolis, let’s explore your best options, balancing proximity with quality riding experiences.
Top Dirt Bike Park Options Around Minneapolis
While “near” is subjective, especially for riders eager to hit the track or trails, several parks offer great dirt biking experiences within a manageable drive from Minneapolis. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most recommended spots, keeping in mind that none are within the immediate city limits.
Meadow Valley Cycle Park
Located southeast of Minneapolis, Meadow Valley Cycle Park is a popular choice for riders in the metro area. Expect a drive of approximately an hour and 15 minutes, potentially a bit longer from downtown Minneapolis. This park caters to diverse riding preferences, featuring both motocross tracks and trails. It operates on a schedule and requires a fee for riding, so be sure to check their website or call ahead for opening times and costs. Meadow Valley is known for offering a good mix of challenging and fun terrain for various skill levels.
Arkansaw Cycle Park
Sharing a similar driving distance and direction to Meadow Valley, Arkansaw Cycle Park is another solid option southeast of Minneapolis. Like Meadow Valley, anticipate around an hour and 15 minutes of travel time. Arkansaw also provides both motocross tracks and trails, giving riders the choice between high-speed track action and more adventurous trail riding. Keep in mind that Arkansaw Cycle Park also operates with scheduled riding times and fees, so verifying their schedule is recommended before heading out.
Wheeler Powersports (Wheeler, WI)
Venturing slightly further out, Wheeler Powersports in Wheeler, Wisconsin, presents a different riding experience. This location is characterized by its natural terrain track and a more contemporary motocross track. Notably, Wheeler is known for its deep sand conditions. The natural terrain track offers unique challenges, particularly the uphills which demand momentum due to the sandy surface. The contemporary track has been described as more supercross-oriented in the past, focusing heavily on jumps. While opinions on the contemporary track may vary, Wheeler Powersports has remained a consistent riding destination, suggesting it appeals to many riders despite its sand-heavy nature. Expect a slightly longer drive to Wheeler compared to Meadow Valley and Arkansaw.
Kellogg MX Track
Kellogg MX track is another option to consider, and it’s worth noting they sometimes offer practice sessions on Thursday afternoons or evenings. This could be a convenient option for weekday riding if their schedule aligns with yours. Like Wheeler, Kellogg MX track is a bit further out from Minneapolis than Meadow Valley and Arkansaw.
Public Riding Areas and State Forests
If you’re looking for a more “public” riding experience, Minnesota’s State Forests offer possibilities, although they require a DNR sticker.
Nemadji State Forest
The Nemadji State Forest is likely the closest state forest riding area, situated approximately 2.5 hours north of Minneapolis. The Minnesota DNR website is your best resource for a comprehensive list of state forest riding areas and regulations. However, it’s crucial to be aware of the trail designations. Trails marked as “OHM” (Off-Highway Motorcycle) permitted might not always be ideal for dirt bikes. Many can be primarily ATV trails, which can become muddy and rutted, especially depending on the season and weather conditions.
State Forest Trail Considerations
Experiences in state forests like Chengwatana State Forest highlight the importance of understanding trail conditions. While some state forest trails might appear closer on a map, they can sometimes be less suitable for dedicated dirt biking due to their ATV-focused nature and potential for muddy conditions. Always research trail reports and consider local rider feedback before assuming a state forest trail will provide a pure dirt bike experience. Solana State Forest is mentioned as potentially enjoyable on a motorcycle, particularly for its elevation changes, but again, confirming current trail conditions and suitability for dirt bikes is crucial.
Racing and Organized Events
For riders interested in motocross, hare scrambles, or enduro racing, ARMCA.org (American Motorcycle Association District 23) is the go-to resource. This website provides complete schedules for District 23 events, offering opportunities to participate in organized racing and connect with the local racing community.
Conclusion: Finding Your Dirt Bike Ride Near Minneapolis
While dedicated “dirt bike parks near me” in the immediate Minneapolis area might be limited, excellent riding options exist within a reasonable driving distance. Meadow Valley, Arkansaw, and Wheeler Powersports stand out as established parks offering motocross tracks and trails. State Forests offer a more public riding option, but require careful consideration of trail types and conditions. For racers, ARMCA is the central hub for event information. Ultimately, finding your ideal “dirt bike park near me” from Minneapolis involves a short drive, but the rewarding riding experiences at these locations are well worth the trip for any dirt bike enthusiast.
