Exploring Ontario’s ATV trails with Don’s ATV Adventures

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Oct 8, 2024

Don Baker, the man behind Don’s ATV Adventures, has been passionate about off-roading for as long as he can remember. Whether he’s volunteering for club rides or lending a hand to fellow riders through his Facebook page, Don is always eager to help others on the trails.

His YouTube channel has quickly become a go-to resource for ATV enthusiasts across Ontario.

We recently sat down with Don to hear about his journey and what fuels his passion for ATVing.

You can find Don Baker on YouTube under Don’s ATV Adventures or follow him on Instagram and TikTok under the same name.

What inspired you to start your YouTube channel, Don’s ATV Adventures?

I’ve always been passionate about ATVs. I started on dirt bikes at a young age, moved on to three-wheelers, and eventually to four-wheelers. From 1989 to 1994, I raced ATV motocross, and later, from 2005 to 2012, my daughter joined the world of ATV racing as well. In 2018, I got back into trail riding with a Yamaha Grizzly 700 and began exploring the incredible trails we have in Ontario. My wife joined me with her own Yamaha Grizzly soon after, and that’s when I bought a GoPro to capture highlights from our rides.

At first, it was just the two of us riding together, so I started recording our adventures. When it came time to name my YouTube channel, I kept it simple: “Don’s ATV Adventures.”

It was all about capturing and sharing our adventures. Back then, I was looking for YouTube videos that showed complete trails, but most content focused on mudding rather than full trail experiences. That gave me the idea to create videos highlighting different sections of trails, including technical areas and scenic spots, so others could see what to expect when they rode these trails themselves.

What do you enjoy most about trail riding in Northumberland County?

I belong to both the Northumberland District ATV Riders Club and Coe Hill ATV Riders Club in Ontario. While the trails in Northumberland County are on the easier side, they’re incredibly scenic. One of my favourite times to ride is in the fall when the leaves change colour. Many of the trails are old road allowances, and when you’re riding through the hills with colourful leaves falling around you, it’s like going through a natural tunnel, it’s breathtaking! Even in the spring, the sight of farmers planting their crops as you ride through the rolling hills adds a peaceful, picturesque touch to the experience.

Can you share some of your favourite trails or spots you’ve discovered while riding?

It’s tough to narrow it down, but a few of my favourite areas include “Little Cuba” (Merrill Lake), the Ompah/Calabogie region, and Barry’s Bay. Another standout spot is Elk Lake in Ontario, where we stayed at Elk Lake Wilderness Resort.

The trails there are absolutely amazing, and it’s a must-see for any ATVer. Outside of Ontario, one of my top picks is the Hatfield-McCoy Trails in West Virginia. For the past three springs, a group of us has made the 11-12 hour drive for a week-long adventure there, and I highly recommend it to any serious ATV enthusiast.

What’s one of the most memorable moments you’ve captured on your rides?

Definitely our trips to the Hatfield-McCoy Trails stand out. But aside from the epic rides, I’ve also captured countless moments of making new friends while out on the trails. Meeting fellow riders and sharing these experiences has been just as memorable as the rides themselves.

How has your channel evolved since you started, and what do you hope viewers take away from your videos?

Honestly, I never expected my channel to grow the way it has. Over time, more and more riders wanted to join us on our rides, and it got to the point where I couldn’t keep track of everyone who was interested. That’s when one of my long-time friends, Derek Esson, suggested creating a Facebook group where I could post details about our rides. Now, with over 1,300 members, we often have to limit the number of people joining us! It’s crazy to think that what started as a small group of friends riding together has had such an impact on others.

During COVID, the sport saw a huge surge in popularity, and I had so many newcomers reaching out, asking to join us. Of course, I always welcomed them. It’s been incredibly rewarding to introduce new riders to the trails, and it’s still funny to me that people sometimes ask what I charge, thinking Don’s ATV Adventures is a business. It’s not—it’s just a group of friends riding together every Saturday, and we’re always open to making new friends.

Any advice for new ATV riders or those thinking of getting into the hobby?

My best advice is to just get out there and have fun! Always ride with a group—never alone. Ride sober, always wear a helmet, and stay within your limits. Also, respect the residents if you’re riding near homes, and be mindful of trails that run through private property. Many of these trails exist because the club has permission to use them, so it’s important to show respect.

Don would like to thank his incredible sponsors (Motosports Trenton, Elk Lake Wilderness Resort, Fabfpf, Factory UTV, Auxbeam, Kemimoto, WR Performance Products, and Janssen Motorsports) and of course, his viewers who make it all possible.

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