Best time to visit West Virginia

Hatfield-McCoy Trails in West Virginia

The best off-road vehicle trail system in the US, and among the greatest ones in the world

Best time: all year round

Hatfield-McCoy Trails
Hatfield-McCoy Trails
Hatfield-McCoy Trails

The Hatfield-McCoy Trails system consists of over 700 mi (1,100 km) of trails nestled in the highlands of southern West Virginia. The network covers eight trails open to ATVs, Jeeps, and dirt bikes 365 days a year. The trails are designed so that everyone from novices to pros could enjoy scenic itineraries, local flora and fauna, mountain towns, and local foods. Just so you know, the curious name takes after the two famous families, the Hatfields and the McCoys, who feuded in the area after the Civil War.

To get an authentic 4-wheeler vacation, you have to buy a trail permit, either online or from one of the local vendors (see "External Resources" below). Next, choose a trail you want to ride, as all of them are different and often located at a significant distance. Anyways, ambitious riders can plan to conquer all of them.

Choose your trail

Each of the eight trail systems of Hatfield-McCoy is unique in its own way. Bearwallow, for example, is beloved for the mix of easy and difficult trails. Whereas Buffalo Mountain is the most historic trail system and particularly popular with dirt bike enthusiasts. Indian Ridge is the central trail system that connects with two other ones—the picturesque Pinnacle Creek and the eastern-most Pocahontas. Such connections allow extended off-road trips. Likewise, the newest 2016 trail Devil Anse links up to Buffalo Mountain and Rockhouse. And lastly, the southern-most Warrior trail system boasts some of the most outstanding sceneries. More detailed information and maps of the trails are available in the "External Resources" section below.

The last pivotal step in planning your Hatfield-McCoy Trails adventure is to find your lodging. On the map, you'll see all eight trailheads along with a variety of hotels nearby.

Practical info

I want to plan a trip on the Hatfield-McCoy Trails. When are they available for riding?

The trails are open every single day, year-round. This gives riders maximum flexibility to plan their trips whenever is most convenient for them, even on weekends and holidays. Show more

Where can I obtain a Hatfield-McCoy trail permit?

To get a trail permit, you can purchase it through a local vendor or through the Hatfield-McCoy Trails website. A permit is required in order to ride the trails, so it's important to make sure you have one before hitting the road. Show more

Which of the Hatfield-McCoy trails is a good choice for those looking for a mix of easy and difficult courses?

Bearwallow is an ideal trail system for riders of all abilities, with both easy and challenging routes available to choose from. It's a trail system that can accommodate various skill levels and make the most of a trip. Show more

What kind of off-road vehicles are allowed on the Hatfield-McCoy Trails?

ATVs, Jeeps, and dirt bikes are all permitted on the Hatfield-McCoy Trail system, among other types of vehicles. As long as you have a valid trail permit, you'll have access to all kinds of off-road vehicles and terrain for fantastic riding experiences in the highlands of West Virginia. Show more

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Last updated:
Authors: Olha Savych