Virtue Flat Off-Highway Area in Baker County to close for motorcycle races
By Logan Bagett on Thursday, September 10th, 2026 in Northeastern Oregon News Northeastern Oregon Top Stories
BAKER CITY — The BLM office in Baker City has announced a closure to the Virtue Flat Off-Highway Vehicle Area this weekend, due to the Bar to Bar Off-Road Motorcycle Race. Read the full BLM press release below:
(Press Release from the Bureau of Land Management)
The Bureau of Land Management announces that parts of the Virtue Flat Off-Highway Vehicle Area, approximately 12.5 miles east of Baker City, will temporarily close for the Bar to Bar Off-Road Motorcycle Race. The closure applies during active race periods on Sept. 12–13, from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., and is necessary to ensure public safety, support event operations, and avoid conflicts with other recreationists.
“Public safety is our highest priority during high-speed events like this motorcycle race, and the eastern trails will remain open for other recreationists to enjoy,” said Erich Schow, Baker Field Office Assistant Manager. “We appreciate the community’s cooperation and patience as we work to host a safe and successful event.”
During race activities, officials will close the designated racecourse, staging, pit, parking, and start/finish areas. Public recreation access to these areas will not be permitted during the closure period. Trails and routes on BLM land to the east of the course will remain open for recreational use.
For more information about the closure, please contact the BLM Baker Field Office at (541) 523-1256.
