Off-Road Trails in Virginia

Virginia is an adventurer's playground with plenty of awesome recreational areas worth exploring. Whether you love the mountains or coastal areas, Virginia has you covered. The state boasts epic hiking trails, family-friendly campgrounds, and scenic waterways, but if you really want to get your blood pumping you need to head off-road. Get to know our favorite top ATV, UTV, motorbike, and Jeep trails in Virginia.

Mountain View Spearhead Trail, St. Paul

Image via Flickr by Dushan and Miae

Mountain View Spearhead Trail is an extensive trail network in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains. With 11 easy trails, 12 moderate trails, and 48 difficult tracks, there's something for everyone here. St. Paul is an ATV-friendly town, so you can ride any kind of off-highway vehicle right up to the trailhead.

Peters Mill Run and Taskers Gap OHV Loop Trail, Edinburg

Together Peters Mill Run and Taskers Gap OHV Loop Trail form the state's largest OHV complex. While the trails have rugged terrain, most suit beginners. Pay attention to the markers at Taskers Gap though, as some tracks suit more experienced riders. The trails close to ATVs and OHVs from January to March.

South Pedlar ATV Trail, Big Island

South Pedlar also caters for everyone. The 19-mile looping network has simple wide paths for beginners and more difficult, narrow twisty tracks for advanced riders. ATVs, motorbikes, and mountain bikes are all welcome when the trail opens from early April to late November.

Big Boys Playground, Harrisonburg

Big Boys Playground has rugged facilities that put off-roaders of all skill levels to the test. Motorbikes, ATVs, UTVs, SUVs, dune buggies, and sand rail 4x4s are all welcome to take on challenges like the drag strip and 150-mile mud pit dubbed the Hell Hole. The motocross track and hare scramble trail add to the fun.

Flagpole Knob, Harrisonburg

While you're in Harrisonburg, make sure you stop at Flagpole Knob in George Washington National Forest. This forest trail is just 3.6 miles, but don't underestimate it. The elevated track sits high on the Allegheny Mountains, ensuring spectacular views of Virginia and West Virginia. The area is also rich in birdlife, including warblers and migrating hawks. As the track is steep and very rocky, it's best suited to experienced drivers with high-clearance 4x4s.

Old Long Run and Gauley Ridge, Harrisonburg

As Old Long Run and Gauley Ridge are connecting trails in George Washington National Forest, and few off-roaders tackle one without the other. The rocky terrain is ideal for moderate to advanced drivers, especially once you reach the switchbacks of Gauley Ridge.

Big Dogs Family Offroad, Gore

Big Dogs Family Offroad, part of the Cove Campground, opens to the public during organized events. You can buy tickets from the park's website for access to its trails, with grades from beginner to expert advanced. The tricky terrain requires large off-road vehicles with tires measuring at least 30 inches.

Catfish ATV Trails and Pond, Martinsville

With more than 60 miles of long looping trails, it's easy to see why local ATV, UTV, and motorbike riders love the place known affectionately as Catfish Pond. The rugged tracks get muddy, especially after rain when the mud pits swell. The park opens on weekends when weather permits.

Ridgeview Trail, Haysi

Opened in 2017, Ridgeview Trail is one of Virginia's newest trail systems. The original 60-mile network now spans 78 miles, ensuring there are even more opportunities for novice, intermediate, and advanced riders. Mountain bikers and horse riders also use these trails, so take care when you're zooming around on your ATV.

Rocky Run ATV Trail, Harrisburg

Unlike so many Virginia off-road trails, Rocky Run ATV Trail opens year-round. While some narrow, twisting portions are challenging, there are plenty of basic wide passages for new riders. The 10-mile trail welcomes all types of off-road two- and four-wheelers.

Potts Mountain Jeep Trail, New Castle

If you want to test your skills, head to Potts Mountain Jeep Trail, a scenic 7.5-mile double-back trail in the Barbours Creek Wilderness area of Jefferson National Forest. Its steep slopes and jagged rocks give experienced off-roaders a real challenge. The Jeep trails need high-clearance suspension though, so leave your standard 4x4 at home.

Blue Ridge OHV Route, Stuarts Draft

Blue Ridge OHV Route is a 17-mile trail that suits all 4x4s. It's a difficult trail, especially after rain when its sharp turns become more treacherous and water pools in puddles. The track opens on April 1 and closes in early January.

Stony Run Jeep Trail, Millboro

While most locals call it a Jeep trail, this rugged 12-mile trail is a multipurpose track used by mountain bikers, horseback riders, hikers, and leashed dogs. Respect your fellow trail users as you scale the steep path. You'll need a moderate degree of experience to handle the incline. Make sure you appreciate the wildflowers growing in the George Washington National Forest as you drive through.

Moto Cove ATV Trail, Winchester

With a full-service campground and cabins on-site, Moto Cove is the perfect vacation destination for off-road enthusiasts. The park welcomes all kinds of off-highway vehicles and riders of all abilities. Novices can gain confidence on the 2-mile beginner loop, while more experienced riders can navigate loose rocks, mud puddles, and steep hills on the forest trail.

Little Fort Campground, Jefferson

Another top vacation spot, Little Ford Campground is a massive OHV complex open year-round. It's a simple campground that helps you connect to nature. However, its trails are the real draw. The campground has 11 trails for ATVs, UTVs, and dirt bikes of all skill levels, and Peters Mill Run and Taskers Gap OHV Loop Trail is just a short drive away.

Kairos Resort, Glen Lyn

For a more glamorous off-roading getaway, try Kairos Resort. Luxury yurts sit close to more than 40 miles of trails for ATVs, UTVs, motorbikes, and dirt bikes. Easy, moderate, and difficult trails let riders of all abilities explore the Appalachians. If you don't have your own off-roader, you can hire a UTV.

Before you hit the Virginia trails, make sure your off-roading setup is just right. Visit Wet Sounds for top off-road accessories, including tower speakers and LED lights. With these finishing touches, your off-road vehicle can be as original as you are.