A road closes. A trail disappears. And sometimes, by the time you hear about it, it feels like there's nothing you can do.
On this episode of Moto Adventurer Unscripted, Drew and Mark talk with Scott Jones, Central States Representative for the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA), about motorcycle road closures, public land access, Forest Service roads, and how adventure and dual-sport riders can protect their riding opportunities.
With decades of experience in motorized recreation and land-use advocacy, Scott explains how closures happen, why public comment matters, and how riders can influence decisions before access is lost.
Topics include:
Fighting road and trail closures: What to do when you learn a route may be shut down.
Forest Service vs. county roads: Who controls a road and how closure procedures differ.
Public hearings and comment: How to make your voice heard and influence decisions.
The Tower Ridge Road dispute: How historical legislation and public access factor into a proposed closure in Indiana's Hoosier National Forest.
The Explore Act and public land access: How federal legislation and land-management policies affect roads and trails.
Seasonal closures and responsible riding: Why closures happen and how illegal riding can threaten access for everyone.
Building alliances: Why working with clubs, hikers, mountain bikers, equestrians, and other user groups matters.
Keeping riding areas open: How volunteers, grants, and community involvement can help maintain access.
SUBSCRIBER-ONLY BONUS
The extended conversation explores the Kaywood Road dispute on the Daniel Boone Backcountry Byway, federal land-use rules, and practical ways riders can organize and advocate for continued access to public lands.
Want the full conversation? Subscribe to Moto Adventurer Unscripted for the bonus discussion and more subscriber-exclusive content.
Whether you ride an adventure motorcycle, dual-sport, or dirt bike, this episode explains how road closures happen—and what you can do to help keep riding areas open.
The ride doesn't end when the episode does. Subscribers get ad-free listening and access to the Bonus Loop, our exclusive extended discussion recorded after the main show wraps up. If you enjoy the podcast, come along for a few extra miles.
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