If you’re an off-roading enthusiast, ATV riding in Virginia is something you shouldn’t miss! Here is a recreational ATV riding guide for all the information you’ll certainly need.
Given Virginia’s breathtaking landscapes and varied terrain, the state offers plenty of opportunities for ATV trail riding. Weaving through dense forests and scenic rides through the beautiful Virginia mountains, every rider is in for a treat! Get an overview of what to expect before you enjoy the many trails of Virginia.


The state of Virginia is truly an adventurer’s paradise, with plenty of amazing recreational areas worth exploring.
Whether you love the famous coastal or mountain areas, Virginia has trails for ATV riders of all skill levels. Here is our ATV riding guide in Virginia to help you plan your off roading adventure.
Does Virginia Have ATV trails?
The mountains and forest of Virginia are undeniably great ATV riding. From the hundreds of miles of connecting trails through the mountainous terrain of the southwest corner of the state to the coastal regions, Virginia has so much to offer.
Places you can ride ATVs in Virginia:
- Public Lands and National Forests such as the George Washington & Jefferson National Forests
- Private Guided ATV Tours
- ATV trails systems
- Private ATV parks
Virginia’s ATV riding trails offer adrenaline-pumping adventures through plentiful wildlife and gorgeous sceneries.
Among the many trails in the state, Spearhead trails offer the largest Collection of ATV Trails in Virginia, with more than 400 miles of interconnected ATV trails crisscrossing Southwestern Virginia.
Read our guide to the Best ATV Trails in Virginia for our pick of the top places for Virginia ATV riding.

Can you ride a 4-wheeler on the Road in Virginia?
In general, ATVs are prohibited on public highways and public property unless authorized by the proper authorities.
Likewise, operating an ATV on private land is not permitted unless you have written permission from the property owner.
You can visit LIS Virginia Law site for more details on Virginia ATV Laws.
Virginia ATV Trail Maps
Most trail systems will provide you with a trail map when you arrive at your riding location. However, if you are a regular ATV rider and want a great ATV trail map navigation system, we recommend the onX off-road App membership.
You can view the Spearhead trails system maps to see over 400 miles of OHV trails if you plan to visit Virginia for trail riding.
Can You Ride ATV In National Forest In VA?
ATV riding is permitted everywhere in the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests in Florida. However, riders must first purchase a permit from the forest service in order to do so.

You’ll be able to find a total of four ATV trail systems under the two ranger districts in the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests.
One thing to keep in mind, ATV riding in these national forests is prohibited from late January through late March due to damage that could ensue during freezing and thawing.
Virginia ATV Rentals
Check out the best places to find ATV rentals in Virginia.
Fun ATV Riding Clothes
While protective gear is essential on the trail, looking cute and sharing your wilder riding side with the world is okay. I’m a big fan of ball caps and love this adorable “ATV hair, Don’t Care” hat from Sew Vivid Design on Etsy. Be sure to check out all this cute ATV apparel.
Download Your FREE ATV Pre Ride Inspection Checklist!
Recommended ATV Riding Resources
- Top ATV Trails Near Me in the Southeast
- Must-Have ATV Accessories
- ATV Riding Clothes– Everything you need to get started
- ATV Trails Near Me Facebook Group
MORE RELATED RESOURCES
Aside from Virginia, there are many other states in the Appalachian region that scream ATV riding! One of our favorites for sure is ATV riding in Tennessee.
If you’re one who’s always ready for outdoor adventure, here’s a post on Pink Jeep Tours from Hobbies on a Budget.