Hatfield-McCoy Trails
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Overview
The Hatfield–McCoy Trails (HMT) is a trail system popular for its recreational trails for ATVs, UTVs, and dirt bikes, but the trails are also open to hikers, mountain bikers, and horse riders. HMT is located in West Virginia's south west counties of Boone, Kanawha, Lincoln, Logan, McDowell, Mercer, Mingo, Wayne, and Wyoming. The HMT trail system is a public–private partnership between private landowners and the Hatfield–McCoy Regional Recreation Authority (HMRRA), a legislatively created quasi-state agency with paid staff and governed by a multi-county board of directors.
Practical Info
Suggested Duration1-3 days
Best TimeThis legendary off-road system is stellar in late spring (April to May) for mud-riders or October for crisp, scenic fall foliage. Hitting the trails right at 8:30 AM is strategic; early morning moisture suppresses dust kicked up by leading ATVs/UTVs and grants a full day of daylight to conquer the wild ridges.
Getting ThereZero public transit presence; visitors must drive personal trucks hauling trailers with off-road rigs. To access the popular Rockhouse trailhead in the town of Man, take US-119 S to Logan, transition onto WV-10 S for 12 miles into downtown Man, and follow the blue trail arrows to the large gravel staging lot.
Travel Tips
- Entering this massive off-road network requires an individual, non-transferable Hatfield-McCoy Trail Permit for every rider and passenger; the permit sticker must be visibly affixed to the front center of your helmet at all times.
- Strict safety equipment laws apply across all trail systems: everyone must wear a certified DOT-approved helmet and protective eyewear. Carrying passengers on vehicles not specifically designed for multi-rider seating is illegal.
- Trails are rated by difficulty (Green, Blue, Black); entering unmapped tracks is dangerous and illegal. The network operates strictly from sunrise to sunset; staying past dark is illegal. Backcountry mechanical recovery fees are exceptionally high.
Reviews
Positive
- This is a premier US hub spanning a thousand miles of rugged off-road tracks, driving ATV and dirt-bike riders into adrenaline overdrive.
- Trail systems are clearly graded, offering a unique setup where off-road vehicles can legally ride right straight into historic towns.
- Navigational trail markers (color-coded by difficulty levels) are impeccably maintained, preventing riders from getting lost in deep woods.
- The surrounding off-road themed B&Bs are ruggedly welcoming, and local residents treat riders with legendary hospitality and warmth.
Heads up
- Hours of riding cakes your entire body in thick dust and mud; without high-grade dust masks and goggles, breathing becomes brutal.
- The mandatory individual permit cost is somewhat steep for casual short-term tourists, and each rider must buy their own individual pass.
- Black diamond technical trails are packed with jagged rocks and vertical muddy ledges; inexperienced riders risk severe vehicle roll-overs.
- The continuous roaring engine noise is deafening, shattering any wilderness quiet; hikers seeking peaceful birdwatching should avoid it.