In the past, the town of Red River did not allow ATVs and OHVs to operate on the streets, nor did the NMDOT allow such vehicles on paved state highways such as NM 38, which is also known as Main Street.
The 2016 NM Legislature passed a bill that would allow ATVs and OHVs to travel on paved roads but stipulated that municipalities and governmental bodies have the option of allowing paved highway use within their jurisdiction. This would allow riders to drive to trail heads from their lodge or home.
The Town of Red River is currently working on a proposal that would allow street use within city limits. Marshal David Smith says, “Red River is actively seeking ways to accommodate our tourists by approaching the NM Transportation Commission to use the highway in a effort to afford riders with a lodge-to-trail access.
“Prior to operating in town, they should check with the Red River Marshal’s Office or the Red River Visitors Center (Conference Center) to see if that proposal passed.
“We are going to make every effort to make this possible because it enhances our tourism base. We want our visitors to have fun!”