Cinders OHV Area
Located in northern Arizona near Flagstaff, the Cinder Hills OHV Area (also called Cinder Hills Recreation Area) is a rugged playground for off-road enthusiasts. With miles of volcanic cinder hills, lava flows, and open desert terrain, this area offers a unique riding experience for UTVs, dirt bikes, quads, and 4x4s.
From challenging hills to scenic desert vistas 🌄, Cinders OHV is ideal for riders looking for adventure off the beaten path.
👉 For official information and maps, visit the USDA Forest Service – Cinder Hills OHV Area.
Location & Directions 📍
Cinders OHV is located southwest of Flagstaff, AZ, accessible via Highway 180 and forest service roads.
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Nearest city: Flagstaff, AZ
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Access via Highway 180 (southbound) or local dirt roads
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GPS coordinates for main staging area: 35.0245° N, 111.6589° W
📍 Google Maps Link to Cinders OHV
Riding & Terrain 🏎️🌋
Cinders OHV offers a wide variety of terrain for all skill levels:
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Volcanic Cinder Hills: Rolling hills and soft volcanic soil 🏜️
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Lava Flows & Trails: Technical areas for experienced riders 🪨
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Open Desert: Plenty of room for high-speed fun and wide turns
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Loop Trails: Established OHV loops for UTVs and dirt bikes 🔄
Whether you’re looking for casual riding, high-adrenaline climbs, or scenic desert exploration, Cinders has it all.
Camping & Amenities ⛺🔥
Camping is allowed in designated areas throughout Cinders OHV:
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Primitive Camping: Bring all supplies; no hookups 💧🍴
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Staging Areas: Easy parking for rigs, UTVs, and trailers 🏕️
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Vault Toilets: Available at main access points 🚻
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Pack In/Pack Out: Trash and supplies must be carried out ♻️
Permits & Fees 🎟️
Cinders OHV is managed by the Coconino National Forest, and a recreation permit may be required depending on use:
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Check USDA Forest Service for current permit info
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No fees for casual day riding, but camping permits may apply ⛺
Safety & Rules ⚠️
The area is remote and rugged, so safety is critical:
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Helmets required for riders under 18 🪖
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Ride only on designated OHV trails 🚩
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Air down tires for better traction on volcanic soil 🛞
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Bring plenty of water, fuel, and recovery gear ⛽💧🪝
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Respect wildlife and natural habitats 🌱
👉 Full rules and guidelines: Cinder Hills OHV Rules
Events & Best Times to Visit 📅🌞
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Spring & Fall: Ideal temps for OHV riding 🍂🌸
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Summer: Can be hot; plan carefully 🔥
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Weekends: Popular with local riders—expect more traffic 🏎️
Cinders OHV also hosts group rides and casual weekend gatherings for off-road enthusiasts.
Plan Your Trip ✅
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Bring extra fuel and water ⛽💧
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Ride with a buddy and carry recovery gear 🪝
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Air down tires for volcanic terrain 🛞
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Check Forest Service website for trail closures or updates 🔗
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Pack out all trash and respect the environment ♻️
More Information ℹ️
For maps, rules, and current conditions, visit:
👉 USDA Forest Service – Cinders OHV Area
👉 AllTrails – Cinder Hills Loop Trail
👉 Rider Planet USA – Cinders OHV