If you love recreational ATV riding, then you better go ATV Riding at Wayne National Forest! Here is a guide to help you get started on your next adventure.
This forest is located in southern Ohio and is the largest off-highway vehicle (OHV) trail system in the state. So, whether you are a beginner or an experienced rider, there are trails that will suit your level of ability.
If you’re looking for a great place to go ATV riding, Wayne National Forest should definitely be at the top of your list. There are plenty of trails surrounded by beautiful scenery, you’re sure to have an amazing time out on the trails.
In this guide, we’ll show you some of the best trails and areas to explore when it comes to ATV Riding at Wayne National Forest.
Wayne National Forest ATV Trails Rules
When it comes to riding ATVs in Wayne National Forest, there are a few rules and guidelines that you need to follow in order to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
- Do not ride out of season: Trails are seasonally closed to off-highway vehicle use from winter to early spring.
- You can only ride OHVs on Orange diamond marked trails.
- All riders and passengers 16 years of age and older must have a valid WNF trail permit($35 for seasonal and $20 for three-day). Fee Free Weekends excluded.
- Any person under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a licensed operator who is 18 years of age or older.
- If you plan to ride an OHV in Ohio, the vehicle must be registered in your home state or temporarily with the Ohio BMV.
For the full list of rules and regulations, head to USDA Forest Service- Wayne National Forest website.
OHVs and OMVs operators should practice caution and take precautions for their own and others’ safety. Proper safety gear, including ATV helmets and eye protection, are required while operating or riding OHVs and OMVs.When riding the trails, alcohol consumption is strictly prohibited.
Wayne National Forest ATV Trails
There are 4 major trail systems in Wayne National Forest and are divided into two distinct areas: The Athens Ranger District [Athens Area] and Ironton Ranger District[Ironton Area].
Athens Ranger District
The Monday Creek OHV System is located in the Athens Ranger District. The system is located just north of Nelsonville, which offers approximately 75 miles of designated trails that are open to OHV riders, mountain bikers, and hikers. This trail system has 8 trailheads, including;
- Monday Creek Trailhead
- Sycamore Trailhead
- Elm Trailhead
- Scarlet Trailhead
- Red Oak Trailhead
- White Oak Trailhead
- Long Ridge Trailhead
- New Straitsville Trailhead
Ironton Ranger District
The Hanging Rock OHV System has 26 miles of trail available for off-highway vehicles, mountain bikes, and hiking use. The trails in this area wind through an old strip mine from the 1960s and 1970s.
Much of the land is badly scarred, with steep slopes that make for challenging riding. The area is also known for its fishing ponds - 51 of them available for anyone to use. The ponds, scattered along the OHV trail, provide a pretty backdrop to any ride.
Ironton Ranger District
The Pine Creek OHV System is located on the Ironton Ranger District and provides approximately 20 miles of trails for off-road vehicles, hikers, and mountain bikers to enjoy. There are also plenty of staging areas and primitive camping is allowed on the trails.
This OHV System consists of three trailheads:
- Telegraph Trailhead
- Wolcott Trailhead
- Lyra Trailhead
Note: The 3.2-mile section of trail located between the Telegraph Trailhead and the intersection of Brushy Fork Road is currently not open to the public. Riders can access the trail system from the Lyra and Wolcott Trailheads.
Ironton Ranger District
The Superior OHV Trail System is a 16.5-mile long off-highway vehicle trail located in the Ironton Ranger District of the Wayne National Forest.
A trailhead is located off State Route 52 and there are also two connector trails to the Pine Creek OHV Trail System.
All-terrain vehicles (ATVs), off-highway motorcycles (OHMs), mountain bikes, and hiking are permitted on the system. A 50-inch width restriction applies to the trail.
Wayne National Forest ATV Trail Map
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.
Get This FREE ATV Pre Ride Inspection Checklist Now!
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
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