There’s a moment right after you leave the pavement — engine humming, pine trees on both sides, nothing but open trail ahead — where you realize this is exactly what a vacation is supposed to feel like. That moment is what Backcountry Attitudes is built around.
But if you’ve never done a self-guided OHV tour before, it’s completely normal to have questions. What exactly is included? How hard is it to drive? Will the kids be safe? Do I need to know where I’m going? We’ve answered all of that below.
What Is a Self-Guided OHV Tour?
Unlike a guided tour where an instructor leads the group, a self-guided adventure means you are in charge of the pace, the stops, and the route — with GPS to keep you on track. Backcountry Attitudes equips each vehicle with a pre-loaded GPS unit, so you’re never actually “lost,” just free.
You choose from a 2-hour, 3-hour, or 4-hour adventure, all of which take you through the open wilderness of Lincoln County — a stretch of southern New Mexico that most people drive past on the highway without ever realizing what’s hiding just off the road.
How Does Check-In Work?
Plan to arrive about 15–20 minutes before your booking time. The team will walk you through the vehicle, the GPS system, trail rules, and safety basics. It’s a thorough but relaxed briefing — not intimidating, even if you’ve never driven an OHV before.
Pro tip: Grab any last-minute gear while you’re in the store. Gloves, sunglasses, snacks, drinks, and branded apparel are all available. Mountain weather in Ruidoso can shift fast, so a light jacket is worth grabbing even on warm days.
What Do You Actually Drive?
Backcountry Attitudes runs Polaris UTVs (side-by-sides) — roomy, stable, and purpose-built for rough terrain. If you’ve driven a car, you can drive one of these. The steering is intuitive, they’re automatic, and the cage and seatbelts mean the whole family rides comfortably.
What Will You Actually See?
The Lincoln County backcountry is genuinely spectacular — rolling high-desert terrain, open meadows, dense pine forest, and mountain ridgelines. Depending on your route and the time of year, you might encounter views that stretch for miles.
The GPS routes are designed to hit the most scenic stretches, so even if this is your first time in New Mexico, you’re on a trail that’s been curated for the experience.
Is It Good for Families With Kids?
Yes — and this is one of the most common things guests mention in reviews. The self-guided format is ideal for families because you set the pace. Want to stop for photos? Stop. Kids need a break? Pull over. There’s no group to keep up with.
What Should You Bring?
- Closed-toe shoes (required — no flip-flops)
- Sunglasses or eye protection
- Light jacket or hoodie
- Water and snacks
- Fully charged phone for photos
- Sunscreen — you’re at elevation with little shade on open stretches
How Do You Book?
Reservations are strongly recommended, especially on weekends and holidays. You can lock in your time slot online in a few minutes. If you find yourself on a waitlist, give them a call — the staff goes out of their way to work people in when a slot opens up.
What Tour Length Should You Choose?
For first-timers with kids, the 2-hour tour is a solid entry point. If your group is energetic and adventurous, go straight to the 3 or 4-hour option. Most guests say the same thing when they return: “We should have booked longer.”
One Last Thing
Backcountry Attitudes is a family-owned operation, and it shows. The staff knows the land, they know their equipment, and they genuinely care that you have a good time. You won’t feel like just another booking.
That first moment when you leave the pavement? It’s waiting for you.
