Tobacco Hills Sand Dunes

Trail Overview

The area is open year-round, but access to the dunes is only available when the water level allows. Typically late spring. Please keep the water level in mind and do not attempt this trail if water levels are high. You will think you are at the Pacific Coast when you drop out of the trees onto the sandy beach. This trail leads to the tallest accessible sand dunes. Dunes range from 3 to 40 feet in height. Be sure to keep an eye out for the weather, and be prepared to get yourself out of mud and sand. Take Forest Service Road 7150, also known as Sophia Bay to the Koocanusa Sand Dune OHV entrance. Take the steep drop down into the exposed sandy reservoir bed, turn right, and drive along the shore. On the first 3/4 of a mile, there are steep drop-off sections to the Driver's left; be aware of any oncoming drivers or riders. This is a multi-use area, and there will be inexperienced youth on dirt bikes, OHV vehicles, hikers, and horses. At .9 miles in, the trail takes a fairly steep drop down, which can be challenging for inexperienced off-road drivers. Follow the shoreline to the end of this on-x route, and you will find large dunes to play on. You can continue to follow the shore and end up at Gateway Boat Camp, which is an optional way out of the OHV area. Along the way are many different terrain challenges you may play in, including mud play pits. This is a great area for new off-road drivers and riders to explore, but it also offers many challenges to the experienced off-road driver. A spark arrestor or exhaust cap is required for all vehicles. Know your limits and your vehicle's capabilities. Depending on conditions, you should reach the large dunes within 30 minutes, but be prepared to spend hours playing in the area. There is cell service, and many areas to camp nearby.

Photos of Tobacco Hills Sand Dunes

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Difficulty

Most of this trail is easy, but there are some steep drops as you go along. To get the big sand dunes, you need to drop down a series of short steep grade.

Technical Rating

Tobacco Hills Sand Dunes can be accessed by the following ride types:

• High-Clearance 4x4
• SUV
• SxS (60")
• ATV (50")
• Dirt Bike