ROUGHING IT. New to the area or to ATVing? Here's what you need to know to be safe and successful.

When it comes to (safely) tearing through the woods on your all-terrain vehicle (ATV) or utility-terrain vehicle (UTV), you want to make sure you have all the information you need to make it an exciting and safe ride. There are many great trails for ATVing and UTVing within 50 miles of Eau Claire, as well as clubs to meet new buddies who love ATVs as well.

Before you can even get on a trail, though, you have to make sure you have completed the required safety courses to drive an ATV and UTV and registered your vehicle(s).

There are many different kinds of ATV and UTV vehicles available for purchase – check out this year’s Best Place to Buy a Recreational Vehicle winners! – but not all are eligible to be registered and operated on Wisconsin trails. You can find information about eligible ATV and UTV vehicles at dnr.wi.gov and register your ride at gowild.wi.gov.

Riders must be at least 12 years old to operate an ATV, 16 years old to operate a UTV, and all riders must complete an ATV Safety Course. Course information and registration can be found at dnr.wisconsin.gov.

So, you’re certified, registered, and itching to get out on the trails. Now what?

The most notable ATV trail in the area is the Chippewa County ATV Trail (711 N Bridge St. Chippewa Falls), which is open from May 1 to Nov. 15. With 23 miles total, the Chippewa County ATV Trail cuts through 33,000 acres of forest, giving exceptional views and exciting hills and drops. Only a short ride from Loopy’s Grill & Saloon (10691 County Hwy. X, Chippewa Falls) and the Mallard Resort (11939 170th St., Chippewa Falls), there’s plenty to do after a long day of adrenaline-pumping ATV fun.

The Buffalo River State Trail is another great option, with 36.4 miles of terrain that passes through Buffalo, Trempealeau, and Jackson counties, not to mention the beautiful marsh and Buffalo River. You can find more trails and ATV rentals at travelwisconsin.com.

If you’re looking for ATV and UTV enthusiasts to ride with, the Chippewa Valley has that, too! The Chippewa Valley ATVers club was formed in 1987 and hosts several year-round group rides and activities. You can learn more about the group and become a member by going to chippewavalleyatversclub.com.

So rev your motors and get on out there! Remember to be safe and respect trail and state laws.