The four-wheelers (ATVs) have been riding the trails since 2003 or 2004. Their impact has been tremendous. Trails that were 18" to 36" wide are now 42" to 10' wide.
ATVs have a unique ability to turn over every rock they touch. They leave a trail that is covered with loose rocks. It is then more difficult to travel this trail on foot, on horseback, or on a bicycle or motorcycle.

I have also been riding in Colorado since 1994. Many motorcycle trails there are off-limits to ATVs. There is a distinct difference in these trails. The motorcycle-only trails look like hiking trails (or cow trails). I believe the bicycle and motorcycle riders help keep the trails open for hikers and horseback riders because of their ability to cover so much more ground in a day.

Manufacturers continue to turn out ATVs in record numbers. There is plenty of potential for conflict as the number of trail users continues to grow as well. Skill levels range from motorcyclists with 30 years of racing experience to first-time ATV operators who can sit on the seat of a 4WD ATV with unlimited performance potential and ride it over anything.