North River Ranger District

Recreation

Off-Road Vehicle Trails

Driving for pleasure, including off-road recreational vehicles, is one of the many uses of National Forest lands. At the same time, it is recognized that improper handling of an off-road vehicle (ORV) can damage the resources of these lands. Because of this potential impact, the driver must assume responsibility for proper vehicle operation.

Important Information on ORV Operations

The ORV’s permitted on the designated ORV trails of the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests include four-wheel drive vehicles, motorcycles, motor-bikes, three- and four-wheel all-terrain vehicles (ATV's), and mountain bicycles. However, not all ORV vehicles are permitted on all of the designated ORV trails. Please review the trail descriptions to determine which vehicles are permitted to operate on the designated ORV trails of the George Washington National Forest. Refer any questions you have to the Ranger District Office.

• VIRGINIA STATE LAW REQUIRES OPERATORS OF MOTORCYCLES AND ATV's TO WEAR SAFETY HELMETS, IMPOSES LIMITS ON THOSE UNDER THE AGE OF 16, AND PROHIBITS RIDING DOUBLE.
• All roads normally open for public travel are available for ORV use provided the vehicle and operator are in compliance with motor vehicle laws of the State.
  • ORV operators must have a valid operator’s license or learner’s permit as required by the law of the state in which the vehicle is being operated.
  • ORV must have a valid vehicle license, as required by the state law where the vehicle is maintained. Currently, most ATV's cannot be licensed or registered in the states of VIRGINIA or WEST VIRGINIA. Therefore, ATV use is restricted to those roads and trails which are specifically designated and SIGNED for ATV use.
• Specific ORV trails must be posted as open if they are available for ORV use.
• Motorized vehicles are NOT permitted to travel on closed roads. Closure is usually indicated by one or more of the following: a closed gate, tank trap (earthen mound) and/or closure signs.
• Operating an ORV while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is prohibited.
• Operating an ORV in a careless or reckless manner, or in a manner which may endanger any person or property, is prohibited.
• Operating an ORV on any trail not specifically designated for motorized vehicle travel is prohibited.
• Operating an ORV cross-country is also prohibited.