Canadian Off-Highway Vehicle Distributors Council

Tips for trail riding with children

Fresh air, blue sky, sunshine – trail riding can be one of the most pleasant summer activities for any family. Whether out for an afternoon or taking a family holiday that includes trail riding, there are many scenic areas to visit and trails to ride. However, there are some important tips to follow when trail riding with children.

All ATV riders should abide by the manufacturer's age recommendation that is shown on warning labels on the ATV and in the owner's manual.
Equip every person with the proper clothing and protective gear. Helmet, gloves, knee and elbow pads and a chest protector are essential.
Make sure that your child has completed an approved rider-training course.
Ride only on trails that are not crowded and within his or her riding abilities.
When riding in a group, place one adult-ridden ATV in front of the ATV ridden by your child and another adult-ridden ATV behind.
If just one adult and child are riding, the adult-ridden ATV should be in front to better control the speed.
If you have several children riding at once, try to separate them. This will reduce the chances of them competing with each other – which could create dangerous situations.
Never carry a child on your ATV unless the ATV has been designed to carry two people.
Always take a leisurely pace and stop often to avoid fatigue or loss of attention.
Always bring water, a snack or two, and make sure other people know where you are going and when you expect to be back.
Remember, summer is a time of relaxation and enjoyment. Happy trails to you are safe trail riding for you and your children.