Go Off-Road

Tucked away in the rugged Appalachian Mountains in Southwest Virginia are the Spearhead Trails, offering more than 600 miles of family-friendly trails within the magnificent forests of this stunningly beautiful region.

Five bold and adventurous trails make up the Spearhead Trails System. Got a SxS (side by side) or dirt bike that you're eager to get out on the trails? We know, us too. From north to south, here's where to ride, or where to rent and ride. Get out there, get dirty and have fun. Ready for fast facts? We've got 'em.

But first, we want to note that there are two bonus Spearhead Trails, including the Jawbone Trail for Jeeps and the Russell Fork Trail for equestrian riders, as well as hikers and mountain bikers. We've set you up for the outdoor adventure of a lifetime. In the Heart of Appalachia, here's what to know about the Spearhead Trails:

Original Pocahontas

A wooded oasis offers an escape comprised of more than 90 miles of rugged trails that take fun to another level in the once-booming coal mining town of Pocahontas. You'll also find 10 miles of winding single track. Get your motor running, friends.

 94 miles of family-friendly trails

 46% Green, 45% Blue, 5% Black, 0% Yellow

 Rent from: Trailhead ATV Resort

 Trailheads: Pocahontas, Bluefield (Tazewell County)

Coal Canyon

The incomparable openness of Coal Canyon allows riders access to expansive mountain vistas, wide open canyons and mountain ridges brimming with curiosity over what you'll find on the other side.

 127 miles of rugged trails

 53% Green, 24% Blue, 22% Black, 1% Yellow

 Rent from: Southern Gap Outdoor Adventure

 Trailhead: Grundy (Buchanan County)

Haysi’s Ridgeview

These trails wow with abundant wildlife and diverse riding experiences thanks to scenic overlooks, shaded deep woods and thrilling ridge runs.

 78 miles of family-friendly trails

 50% Green, 33% Blue, 16% Black, 1% Yellow

 Trailhead: Haysi (Dickenson County)

Mountain View

Revel in views once seen by early settlers as they traveled westward in search of economic prosperity, then watch the misty clouds roll in over endless mountains. This massive system has trails for all levels, as well as 20 miles of single track.

 118 miles of rugged trails

 53% Green, 24% Blue, 22% Black, 1% Yellow

 Rent from: Western Front Hotel

 Trailheads: St. Paul, Coeburn (Wise County)

Stone Mountain

For the ultimate challenge – as in, no beginner trails here – bring your SxS to Lee County for miles upon miles of blue and black trails that are carved out of the sandy mountain. Experience nine of the most breathtaking overlooks you will see anywhere.

 34 miles of challenging trails

 0% Green, 89% Blue, 10% Black, 0% Yellow

 Trailhead: Pennington Gap (Lee County)

 Permits are mandatory to ride an ATV on the Spearhead Trails, even for passengers. Purchase a one-day or annual pass from retailers and rental outfits across the region.

 Helmets are required and motor vehicle laws must be followed at all times.

 Adult supervision is required for riders under age 18.

 To maximize the trail experience, wear gloves, eyewear, boots and protective gear.

For more info on the Spearhead Trails, including maps, trailhead addresses and a link to purchase an annual permit to enjoy the trails year-round, visit spearheadtrails. com. 

It's easy to do in the Heart of Appalachia. Read on and snuggle up in your sleeping bags, nature lovers.

Southern Gap Outdoor Adventure, Grundy - There are five cabins, as well as 19 pull-through RV sites and a wideopen space for primitive tent camping. It's a great place to lay your head after a full day spent off-roading on the Coal Canyon Trail. It's also a primo destination for stargazing.

Jessie Lea RV Park & Campground, Big Stone Gap - Situated on the banks of the Powell River, this scenic RV park and campground has 39 RV sites, as well as an open field for tent camping. Enjoy a picnic lunch beside the river, then take a walk into Big Stone Gap on the Greenbelt Trail.

Thunder River Campground, Haysi

Set on the Russell Fork River, this campground is your gateway to adventure. You'll find 20 camp sites, including 10 full hook-up sites, 10 primitive tent sites and plans to double in size. The campground sits on the site of a former coal community that was reclaimed and cleaned up by the state.

Trailhead ATV Resort, Bluefield - Ride ATVs and dirt bikes all day, then settle in around a campfire at night. You'll find 14 one- and two-bedroom cabins, as well as nine full hook-up RV sites and three primitive tent sites. Enjoy access to the Original Pocahontas Trail and on-site UTV rentals.

Leeman Field RV Park & Campground, Pennington Gap - This campground is open year-round with 21 full hookup sites for RVs and tents, as well as primitive tent sites. Leeman Field is less than two miles from the iconic Stone Face Rock, a natural rock formation, and allows easy access to the Stone Mountain Trail.

Clinch River Family Campground, Duffield - This family-owned campground on the Clinch River wows with riverside tent sites, a newly renovated bathhouse and hiking trails across the property. There's even a shuffleboard court and a horseshoe pit. Have a picnic on the banks of the Clinch River or drop in your kayak or canoe at the launch.

RiverBend Campground, Cleveland

This peaceful campground is set on the renowned Clinch River. Stroll along a scenic half-mile walking trail and boardwalk that connects the campground to Town Park. Take a walk to Tank Hollow Falls or stop by the colorful mural on the side of the Town Hall building for a gram-worthy photo.

For the complete list, scan the QR code below. 

Are you a Harvest Host member?

You will find many unique Harvest Host locations in the Heart of Appalachia region