Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Red Mountain Off-Highway Vehicle Area is a specialized recreation site managed primarily for motorized trails and off-road vehicle use. Located in Benton County in southeastern Washington, the area features a desert high plateau landscape characterized by sagebrush, juniper clusters, rocky outcrops, and Red Mountain itself—a prominent basalt ridge rising above the surrounding terrain. The ecology here is typical of the Columbia Basin, with dry conditions supporting a variety of wildlife including mule deer and numerous bird species. Red Mountain OHV Area offers over 45 miles of developed vehicle trails suited for dirt bikes, ATVs, and 4x4s, ranging from beginner to expert difficulty levels. The trail system utilizes former mining roads, natural ridges, and steep canyon descents, creating challenging routes sought after by off-road enthusiasts. Established to provide safe, legal riding opportunities and reduce illegal off-road activity in nearby protected lands, the area includes scenic views of the Columbia River Gorge to the south and the glaciated Cascade peaks to the west on clear days. There are limited camping options onsite, but nearby federal lands provide additional opportunities for overnight stays. The local climate is semi-arid with hot summers and cold winters, making spring and fall the most popular visiting seasons. Red Mountain OHV Area attracts both day visitors and weekend riders looking to test their skills on rugged terrain with varied trail features such as rock gardens, hill climbs, and sandy washes. It also holds regional events and competitions periodically, fostering a strong off-road community. The area's proximity to the Tri-Cities metropolitan area makes it a convenient escape for off-road recreation in an otherwise sparsely developed landscape.
