Tips for Tackling Sand Dunes
Every ATV owner should experience the fun and challenge of riding sand dunes at least once. There’s nothing quite like carving through bowls, climbing steep faces, and experiencing the constantly changing terrain. But not all dune-riding destinations offer the same experience. Depending on where you go, you could find yourself tackling massive desert landscapes, family-friendly recreation areas, or dunes overlooking one of the Great Lakes.
If you’re looking to plan your next ATV adventure, here’s a look at three of the country’s most popular sand-riding destinations: Glamis, Little Sahara, and Silver Lake.
Glamis: The Bucket-List Destination
When riders talk about dune riding, Glamis is usually among the first places that comes up.
Located within California’s Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area, Glamis is famous for its massive dunes, expansive riding areas, and off-road culture. In fact, the dune system stretches for more than 40 miles, giving riders seemingly endless terrain to explore.
This destination is for riders who want big climbs, deep bowls, and scenery that makes every ride feel epic. It’s also one of the most popular off-road destinations in the country, attracting ATV, UTV, and dirt bike enthusiasts throughout the riding season.
If you’re planning a true destination trip and want to experience dune riding on its biggest stage, Glamis is hard to beat.
Little Sahara: Something for Everyone
Not every dune trip has to be extreme. Utah’s Little Sahara Recreation Area has earned a reputation as one of the most versatile riding destinations in the country. Managed by the Bureau of Land Management, the area offers more than 60,000 acres of riding opportunities, ranging from beginner-friendly dunes to challenging climbs like the famous Sand Mountain.
What makes Little Sahara stand out is its variety. Riders can spend time exploring open dunes, navigating smaller rolling terrain, or testing their skills on larger hills. That flexibility makes it a favorite for families and groups with mixed experience levels.
For ATV and UTV owners looking for a destination that balances excitement with accessibility, Little Sahara checks a lot of boxes.
Silver Lake: A Dune Experience Unlike Any Other
Silver Lake ORV Area in Michigan offers something the western dune destinations can’t: Lake Michigan as a backdrop.
Managed by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Silver Lake is the only designated sand dune riding area east of the Mississippi River. While it’s significantly smaller than Glamis or Little Sahara, what it lacks in size it makes up for in scenery and uniqueness.
The combination of steep dunes, freshwater views, and a family-friendly atmosphere creates an experience that feels completely different from riding in the desert. For riders in the Midwest, it’s also one of the most accessible ways to enjoy sand riding without traveling across the country.
Just be sure to review the area’s permit and equipment requirements before heading out, as Silver Lake has specific operating rules for ORV users.
Which Destination Is Right for You?
The answer depends on what kind of adventure you’re after.
- If you’re chasing the biggest dunes and a legendary riding experience, Glamis deserves a spot on your bucket list.
- If you want a destination that works equally well for experienced riders and first-timers, Little Sahara may be the perfect fit.
- And if you’re looking for a unique dune-riding experience with incredible scenery, Silver Lake offers something you won’t find anywhere else.
The good news? There’s no wrong choice. Each destination delivers a completely different take on sand riding.
Preparing Your ATV for the Dunes
Sand puts extra demands on your machine, so a little preparation goes a long way. A pre-ride inspection is one of the smartest things you can do before loading up. From checking your air filter to making sure key safety systems are functioning properly, a little preparation can go a long way. Check out the ATV safety features riders should understand before heading off-road. Dune riding is a great reminder of why those systems matter.
Before your trip:
- Check and clean your air filter
- Inspect your drive belt
- Bring a tire pressure gauge and air compressor
- Pack basic tools and a tow strap
- Verify whether a safety flag is required
Many riders lower tire pressure to increase flotation and grip in soft sand. Be sure to follow your manufacturer’s recommendations and adjust for conditions accordingly.
Preparing Yourself for Sand
The riding style changes when you leave the trails and hit the dunes. Momentum becomes your friend. Stopping in soft sand can make it harder to get moving again, and climbing dunes often requires more deliberate throttle than new riders expect. It’s also important to approach dune crests carefully. You never know what’s on the other side, and many riding areas recommend cresting at an angle rather than charging straight over the top.
Some quick tips:
- Stay hydrated
- Wear proper safety gear, including sand goggles
- Install a whip flag
- Consider sun protection
- Ride with a group
Ready for Your Next Adventure?
Whether you’re exploring the massive dune fields of Glamis, climbing the famous hills of Little Sahara, or taking in the lakeside views at Silver Lake, dune riding offers a completely different way to experience your ATV.
Gillian Luce
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