The Hatfield-McCoy Trail System in southern West Virginia encompasses more than 900 miles of officially mapped ATV, UTV, and off-highway vehicle trails across six counties including Logan, Wayne, McDowell, Wyoming, Mingo, and Boone. The trail system takes its name from the legendary nineteenth-century feud between the Hatfield and McCoy families, whose mountainous home territory now serves as one of the most extensive off-road riding destinations in the eastern United States.
The trail system is divided into eight individual trailheads—including Rockhouse, Bearwallow, Pocahontas, and Buffalo Mountain—each providing access to distinct sections of the network with varying terrain types. Riders can choose from wide, maintained gravel and dirt connector paths suitable for beginners and families on UTVs, as well as challenging single-track and rock-strewn hill climbs on more advanced segments. Elevation changes across the trail corridors can exceed 1,000 feet, offering panoramic views of the coalfield mountains from high-ridge sections.
A daily trail permit is required for all riders on the Hatfield-McCoy system. Single-day permits cost $25 USD and are available through the trail system's website (trailsheaven.com) or at designated trailhead offices. Annual permits ($50 USD) are available for frequent visitors. ATV and UTV rentals are available through local outfitters including Trails End Motel and ATV Rental in Man, WV, with daily rates ranging from approximately $150 to $250 USD depending on vehicle size and type.
Riders must wear helmets throughout the trail system; full-face helmets are recommended for rocky technical sections. Protective gloves and boots provide additional safety on uneven terrain. The trail system is open year-round, though spring through autumn (April through October) delivers the most reliable conditions. Winter mud and ice can make certain sections impassable after wet weather.
Trailhead communities including Man, Logan, and Gilbert offer hotels, restaurants, and ATV rental services catering specifically to trail visitors. The trail system headquarters at 179 Dingy Road, Man, WV 25635 provides maps, permit sales, and current trail condition updates.
Activity facts
- Where
- Southern West Virginia (Logan, Wayne, McDowell Counties)
- Duration
- Half day to multi-day
Equipment
- ATV or UTV (rental available locally ~$150-250/day)
- Helmet (required)
- Goggles
- Gloves
- Boots
Location
Hatfield-McCoy Trails HQ, 179 Dingy Rd, Man, WV 25635
37.7332, -81.8795 View on map
Highlights
- Ride 900+ miles of mapped ATV and UTV trails across six southern West Virginia counties in one of the largest off-road systems in the eastern US.
- Eight distinct trailheads including Rockhouse, Bearwallow, and Buffalo Mountain offer varied terrain from beginner gravel paths to expert technical climbs.
- Daily trail permits ($25 USD) and annual passes ($50 USD) available through trailsheaven.com or at trailhead offices.
- Local outfitters in Man and Logan offer ATV and UTV rentals ($150-250/day) with some operators providing delivery to trailheads.
Tips for visiting
- Purchase permits in advance through trailsheaven.com to avoid queues at trailhead offices, particularly on holiday weekends.
- Start with the Rockhouse or Bearwallow trailheads for first visits; these offer the best mix of maintained connector trails and scenic ridge-top sections.
- Bring printed or downloaded offline trail maps—cell coverage is unreliable across much of the southern West Virginia trail network.
- Trail conditions change significantly after rain; check the Hatfield-McCoy Trails Facebook page for recent rider condition reports before setting out.
- Riding groups should designate a lead and sweep rider with communication devices on sections without cell coverage for safety coordination.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to own an ATV to ride the Hatfield-McCoy Trails?
No. Local outfitters in Man and the surrounding area offer ATV and UTV rentals with daily rates of approximately $150-250 USD. Some operators provide delivery to trailheads. Confirm rental availability by contacting outfitters in advance.
Is a permit required to ride the Hatfield-McCoy Trail System?
Yes. A daily permit ($25 USD) or annual permit ($50 USD) is mandatory for all riders. Permits are available through trailsheaven.com and at trailhead offices. Riding without a permit can result in fines.
Are the trails suitable for beginners or families?
Yes. The system includes wide, maintained gravel connector trails accessible to UTVs and beginner riders alongside more technical advanced sections. Trail staff at the trailhead office can recommend beginner-friendly routes for first-time visitors.
What is the best time of year to visit the Hatfield-McCoy Trails?
May through October offers the most reliable trail conditions. Spring and autumn are popular for pleasant temperatures and foliage color. Winter visits are possible but certain sections become impassable after ice and snow; check current conditions before visiting.