George Washington and Jefferson

National Forests

Recreational Activities

Off-Highway Vehicle Trails

Driving for pleasure, including off-highway 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-highway vehicle (OHV) can damage the resources of these lands. Because of this potential impact, the driver must assume responsibility for proper vehicle operation.

Important Information on OHV Operations

The OHV's permitted on the designated OHV trails of the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests include four-wheel drive vehicles, motorcycles, motorbikes, four-wheel all-terrain vehicles (ATV's), and mountain bicycles. However, not all OHV vehicles are permitted on all of the designated OHV trails. Please review the trail descriptions to determine which vehicles are permitted to operate on the designated OHV trails. Refer any questions you have to the appropriate 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 OHV use provided the vehicle and operator are in compliance with motor vehicle laws of the state.
• OHV 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.
• OHV 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, most ATV use is restricted to those roads and trails which are specifically designated and signed for ATV use.
• Specific OHV trails must be posted as open if they are available for OHV 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 OHV while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is prohibited.
• Operating an OHV in a careless or reckless manner, or in a manner which may endanger any person or property, is prohibited.
• Operating an OHV on any trail not specifically designated for motorized vehicle travel is prohibited.
• Operating an OHV cross-country is also prohibited.
  

Some fees may differ from area to area within the forest. Forest Service officials have announced a new fee program at Peters Mill Run and Taskers Gap Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Trail complex beginning Saturday July 14, 2007. The trail complex is located on top of Massanutten Mountain, east of Edinburg. Please see the associated press release for additional information.

Treading Lightly

Riders are encouraged to tread lightly to protect the resources and environment. Here are some tips:

• Avoid running over young trees, shrubs and grasses -- this damages and kills them.
• Stay off soft, wet trails and trails already badly rutted.
• Ford streams only at designated crossings.
• Stay on designated routes -- resist the urge to pioneer a new trail or switchback.
• Do not chase or intentionally disturb wildlife.
• Take your litter with you when you leave the national forest.
• Obey closures and regulatory signs.
• Travel at safe and reasonable speeds.
  

For A Safe Trip

• Know the operating limitations of your vehicle.
• Know your own limitations.
• Maintain your vehicle.
• Know the weather and plan accordingly.
• Carry emergency repair equipment as well as food and warm clothes.
• Always wear a helmet and proper safety clothes.
• Supervise young riders.
• Always be courteous when you approach or pass other trail users.

Please ride carefully and enjoy the OHV trails of the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests. Think of yourself as an ambassador for trail riding. Your actions speak for all riders, so be sure that everyone you meet remembers trail riders as good citizens.

* = Locator map will take time to download - please be patient.