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The Phrao Loop

EASY
180 km4866m gainFull DayNovember - JanuaryVerified Jan 2026
Stay on the road

This route passes through 2 protected areas

Remain on the road, dirt or otherwise, and do not venture off the road.

  • Khun Chae National ParkNational Parkอุทยานแห่งชาติ

    Remain on the road, dirt or otherwise, and do not venture off the road.

    Remain on the road, dirt or otherwise, and do not venture off the road. You may enter through a checkpoint and pay the entry fee, but you must stay on the roads the park designates. Riding trail inside a national park falls under s.19 (2), and the Department has separately banned large and off-road motorcycles from parks by Director-General's Rule. Acts affecting the ecosystem — the clause that covers cutting or rutting trail: up to 5 years' imprisonment, a fine up to ฿500,000, or both (s.42). Blocking or obstructing a way, or entering to carry on an activity for profit — which reaches guided and paid tours: up to 2 years' imprisonment, a fine up to ฿200,000, or both (s.44). Failing to comply with an official's order or the Director-General's Rule, including the motorcycle ban: a fine up to ฿100,000 (s.47). Your bike can be confiscated under s.56 whether or not you own it and whether or not anyone is convicted.

  • Si Lanna National ParkNational Parkอุทยานแห่งชาติ

    Remain on the road, dirt or otherwise, and do not venture off the road.

    Remain on the road, dirt or otherwise, and do not venture off the road. You may enter through a checkpoint and pay the entry fee, but you must stay on the roads the park designates. Riding trail inside a national park falls under s.19 (2), and the Department has separately banned large and off-road motorcycles from parks by Director-General's Rule. Acts affecting the ecosystem — the clause that covers cutting or rutting trail: up to 5 years' imprisonment, a fine up to ฿500,000, or both (s.42). Blocking or obstructing a way, or entering to carry on an activity for profit — which reaches guided and paid tours: up to 2 years' imprisonment, a fine up to ฿200,000, or both (s.44). Failing to comply with an official's order or the Director-General's Rule, including the motorcycle ban: a fine up to ฿100,000 (s.47). Your bike can be confiscated under s.56 whether or not you own it and whether or not anyone is convicted.

Quoted text is from the Office of the Council of State's unofficial English translations. Only the Thai originals have legal force, and enforcement varies by park and by season. This is not legal advice — if in doubt, ask at the park office. More on riding responsibly here.

About this route

A great loop through the forests of Northern Chiang Mai, leading to the small town of Phrae before looping back to Chiang Mai. An easy beginner ride with 4x4 roads suitable in all seasons.

Ride safe

WARNING: Off Road or Enduro motorcycling is an inherently dangerous activity. Unless you are an experienced rider, never ride alone and always tell someone where you are going. If you are unfamiliar with the area, please ask for the most up to date trail conditions from local riders or rental shops. The routes here are presented with trail conditions as of their publishing. Trail conditions can change suddenly, especially during rainy season.

Trail details

Distance
180 km
Elevation gain
4866m gain
Duration
Full Day
Best season
November - January
Fuel stops
Available in Phrae
Water crossings
Yes
Difficulty
EASY
Country
Thailand

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