Off-Road Guide
West Virginia ATV Trails: Hatfield-McCoy & More
The Hatfield-McCoy Trail System is the largest network of off-road trails in the eastern United States, spreading across more than 600 miles of southern West Virginia. With systems for everyone from beginners to hardcore riders and towns that welcome ATVs on their streets, it is the undisputed capital of East Coast off-roading.
Quick Info
- Best For
- ATV, UTV and dirt bike riders; families; group trail weekends
- Best Season
- April–November; summer is busiest, fall offers the best riding weather
- Difficulty
- Green family loops to black-diamond hill climbs and technical rock sections
- Fees/Permits
- Hatfield-McCoy permits required; day and annual passes available online or at trailheads
- Where
- Logan, Mingo, McDowell, Mercer, Boone, Kanawha and Pocahontas counties
What Is the Hatfield-McCoy Trail System?
Named for the feuding families of Appalachian lore, the Hatfield-McCoy Trail System is a state-managed network of interconnected off-road trails in southern West Virginia. It is one of the only systems of its kind on the East Coast, purpose-built for ATVs and UTVs with signage, maps, and connections into towns where machines are legal on designated streets. A single trail pass covers all systems for the duration of your stay, and trails are open to ATVs, UTVs, and dirt bikes; some systems allow full-size 4x4s on designated routes.
- Bearwallow — 100+ miles near Logan, great for all levels.
- Pinnacle Creek — flowing trails around Pineville and Mullens.
- Buffalo Mountain — steep, technical riding near Matewan.
- Ivy Branch — newer system near Julian with big climbs.
The Individual Trail Systems
Bearwallow near Logan is the flagship and most beginner-friendly, with wide trails, beginner loops, and easy access from town. Pinnacle Creek in Wyoming County mixes flowing singletrack with rocky sections and connects to the communities of Pineville and Mullens. Buffalo Mountain near Matewan is steeper and more technical, popular with experienced riders chasing hill climbs. Ivy Branch near Julian adds newer trails with dramatic elevation. The Pocahontas system, near Bramwell, ties into the historic coal country around Bluewell and the original feud sites.
Because many systems interconnect, multi-day riders can link trails and overnight in trail towns like Logan, Man, Matewan, Williamson, Pineville, and Bramwell.
Trail Towns: Riding Into Town for Food & Lodging
One of the signature experiences of the Hatfield-McCoy system is riding straight into a town for lunch or an overnight. Logan is the hub, with ATV-friendly hotels, restaurants, and outfitters, and the Chief Logan State Park area offers lodging and camping nearby. Matewan is steeped in coal-mining and feud history, and its riverfront makes a memorable rest stop. Bramwell preserves a remarkable collection of coal-baron mansions, while Williamson and Man welcome riders with fuel, food, and repair services. Many hotels offer trailer parking and wash stations.
Permits, Rules & Safety
All riders on the Hatfield-McCoy system need a trail pass, available online or at trailhead permit offices; the pass is good for all systems. Machines must meet sound and safety requirements, riders under 18 must wear helmets, and operating under the influence is strictly prohibited. Trails are two-way and busy on holiday weekends, so stay right, slow down in blind corners, and give oncoming traffic room. Carry water, a first-aid kit, a tire plug kit, and a charged phone — cell coverage is spotty in the hollows. Recreate responsibly: stay on marked trails, respect private property, and pack out your trash.
Beyond Hatfield-McCoy
Snowshoe & Pocahontas
High-elevation forest roads around Snowshoe and Dolly Sods offer scenic off-road exploring when you want cooler air and big views.
North Bend
North Bend State Park and surrounding county roads give riders a quieter, north-central alternative with lake views and campsites.
Dirt Bike Enduro
The state hosts numerous enduro and hare scramble races on the Hatfield-McCoy systems. Check the event calendar if you want to compete.
Top ATV spots in West Virginia
Hatfield-McCoy Overview
The full trail system at a glance, with planning resources.
New River Gorge
Nearby trails, rafting, and climbing for mixed groups.
Snowshoe Highlands
High-elevation off-road exploring and cool summer air.
Trail Towns
Logan, Matewan, Bramwell and Williamson welcome riders.
Camp & Ride
Campgrounds and cabins close to the trailheads.
More Outdoor Fun
Combine riding with hiking, fishing, and rafting.
Related Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to ride Hatfield-McCoy trails?
Yes. Every rider must have a Hatfield-McCoy trail pass, available online or at trailhead permit offices. The pass covers all systems for its valid period.
Which Hatfield-McCoy system is best for beginners?
Bearwallow near Logan is the most beginner-friendly, with wide green trails, beginner loops, and easy access to town for lodging and food.
Can I ride a UTV on all the trails?
UTVs are allowed on most Hatfield-McCoy trails, though some singletrack is reserved for ATVs and dirt bikes. Full-size 4x4s are limited to designated routes on certain systems.
Where should I stay for a trail weekend?
Logan is the central hub with rider-friendly hotels and restaurants. Trail towns like Matewan, Pineville, Williamson, and Bramwell also offer lodging, campgrounds, and trailer parking.
About Discover WV Today
Discover WV Today is an independent travel guide to West Virginia's mountains, rivers, towns, and hidden corners. We publish practical, locally researched guides — from New River Gorge trails to Hatfield-McCoy ATV routes — so you can plan a better trip.
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