How Wide Should A Gate Be For An ATV? [Snowmobiles & Side By Sides]

Knowing the standard size of a gate in a fence is vital, especially when you have an ATV and other vehicles passing through the gate. It's a good thing we've compiled all these details to help you choose the right gate for your needs and ensure that installation goes smoothly.

The wider the gate, the more room your ATV or other vehicles will have to move through. So, when you’re considering how wide to make a gate for an ATV, it should be at least 54 inches wide. This will give you enough room to maneuver, and it will also help to prevent damage to your ATV.

Follow along with this post to learn more details about how wide your gate should be if you have ATV and other large utility vehicles like snowmobiles side by side. Find out if it is possible for you to customize your gates and what are things to consider in doing so.

Beautiful scenery driving UTVs at Kualoa Ranch - How Wide Should A Gate Be For An ATV [Snowmobiles & Side By Sides]

How Wide Should A Gate Be For ATVs And Other Vehicles?

While it may vary depending on the size of your ATV or other vehicles, a general rule of thumb is that your gate should be at least 54 inches wide. This will ensure that you have enough room to maneuver through without damaging the gate or getting the vehicle stuck.

Of course, if you have a particularly large vehicle, you may need to adjust accordingly such as a wide, 60-inch gate -more to come on that! But for most utility models, 54 inches should be more than enough.

Cumbrian sheep farm in winter with an overcast wintry sky.

What To Consider: Installing A Gate For ATV, Snowmobile, Or Side-by-Side

When it comes to gates, there are a few things to consider if you want to keep your ATV, snowmobile, or side-by-side safe and sound.

Choose the Material

First, you'll need to decide what material you want your gate to be made of. Wood is a popular choice for its classic look, but you can also use metal or PVC.

Size of the Gate

You'll need to determine the size of your gate. Keep in mind that ATVs and snowmobiles are larger than most cars, so you'll need a gate that's big enough to accommodate them.

  • Most ATVs have a width between 45 to 50 inches, with an average vehicle width of 47.4 inches.
  • UTVs or side-by-side have about 58 to 64 inches in width.
  • Snowmobiles have a width ranging from 43 to 50 inches.

Design of the Gate

Beautiful scenery driving UTVs at Kualoa Ranch

Finally, you'll need to choose a design that fits your style.

Whether you want a simple ranch gate or an elaborate wrought iron gate, there are plenty of options to choose from. With a little planning, you can find the perfect gate for your ATV, snowmobile, or side-by-side.

What Are The Different Gate Width Sizes?

When it comes to gate width, there are three main size categories: narrow, standard, and wide.

Narrow Gates

Narrow gates are typically between 24 and 36 inches wide. Also, narrow gates for cars are often used in parks and other public places to help control traffic.

By narrowing the width of the gate, it forces drivers to slow down, which can help to prevent accidents. In addition, narrow gates can also help to reduce congestion by discouraging drivers from trying to enter or exit the parking lot at high speeds.

As a result, narrow gates can be an effective way to improve safety and promote orderly traffic flow.

Standard Gates

If you're looking for an ATV gate, that's just the right size, you'll want to make sure you get one that's between 36 and 48 inches wide. That way, you'll be able to fit your ATV through the gate without any problems. Of course, if you have a particularly large ATV, you may need to get a wider gate.

But for most people, a standard-sized gate will work just fine. So if you're looking for an ATV gate that's just the right size, make sure you get one that's between 36 and 48 inches wide. That way, you'll be able to get your ATV through the gate without any problems.

Wide Gates

Wide gates, on the other hand, can be up to 60 inches or more in width. This selection of wide gates is perfect for accommodating larger ATVs and side-by-sides.

Also, they make it easy for you to get in and out, without having to sacrifice security or safety. And with a width of up to 60 inches, you'll never have to worry about your equipment getting stuck.

Of course, there are always exceptions to these general guidelines, but they should give you a good starting point when measuring for a new gate.

Can You Customize Your Gate Width?

Skeleton coast gate

For gates, one size definitely does not fit all. Depending on the width of your driveway and the size of your car, you may need a wider or narrower gate. If you have a particularly wide driveway, you may even want to consider a double gate.

Of course, you can also adjust the width of your gate to accommodate different needs. For example, if you often have large deliveries, leave a wider opening. Or, if you're expecting company, you might want to make sure your gate is wide enough to accommodate multiple vehicles.

All in all, the width of your gate is up to you - so be sure to choose what's right for your needs.

What Are The Benefits Of A Wide Gate For An ATV?

As any ATV owner knows, getting your vehicle through a narrow gate can be a bit of a challenge. But what are the benefits of a wide gate?

  1. First, it allows you to get your ATV in and out of your property without having to disassemble it.
  2. It provides easier access for emergency vehicles if they need to get onto your property.
  3. It prevents your ATV from getting stuck in the gate when you're trying to leave in a hurry.
  4. It makes it easier for you to park your ATV in the garage or shed when you're not using it. 
  5. Finally, it just looks better! A wide gate makes your property look more open and inviting, which is always a plus.

So if you're looking for a gate that's both functional and stylish, be sure to choose one that's wide enough for your ATV. You'll be glad you did.

Do National Parks Have Wide Gates?

Kruger National Park

Off-roading is a popular pastime for many Americans, but it can be difficult to find places to do it without causing damage to sensitive ecosystems. That's why national parks are such a great option for off-roaders – they provide wide-open spaces where vehicles can roam without doing harm.

But, not all national parks have equally wide gates. Some, like Yellowstone, Zion National Park, and the Great Smoky Mountains, have relatively narrow entrances that can make it difficult for larger vehicles to get through.

Others, like Death Valley and Canyonlands, have much wider gates that accommodate all sorts of off-road vehicles. So if you're planning on doing some off-roading in a national park, be sure to check the gate size before you go.

Final Words

If you are still unsure about what width your gate should be, feel free to reach out to a professional for assistance. They will be able to help you determine the best size and type of gate for your needs. Remember, for safety, it is better to be safe than sorry. 

To learn more tips and suggestions for building fences and gates, see our posts below:

What Kind Of Blade To Cut Vinyl Fence

Why Do Concrete Fence Posts Crack? [And How To Fix That]

Why Is My Fence Turning Black [And What To Do About It]