Hatfield-McCoy Trail System wilderness guide
Trail System · WV

Hatfield-McCoy Trail System

The Hatfield-McCoy Trail System is an extensive network of off-highway vehicle trails in West Virginia, offering thrilling riding adventures through rugged Appalachian terrain and scenic landscapes.

Trail SystemApproximately 220,000 acres4+ Trails

Designation

Trail System

Total Wilderness Area

Approximately 220,000 acres

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Hatfield-McCoy Trail System

The Hatfield-McCoy Trail System is an extensive network of off-highway vehicle trails in West Virginia, offering thrilling riding adventures through rugged Appalachian terrain and scenic landscapes.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

The Hatfield-McCoy Trail System spans over 700 miles of interconnected off-highway vehicle (OHV) trails within the Appalachian Mountains of southwestern West Virginia. Named after the famous Hatfield and McCoy families, this trail system provides extensive opportunities for ATV and dirt bike enthusiasts to explore a diverse range of landscapes, including steep ridges, dense forests, winding creeks, and wide valleys. The trail system crosses six counties, including Mingo, Logan, McDowell, Wyoming, Mercer, and Pike County in neighboring Kentucky, and is managed to support sustainable riding experiences while preserving natural resources. The area features a unique mix of rugged Appalachian topography, rich hardwood forests, and historic coal mining heritage, giving riders a blend of natural beauty and cultural history. Established in 2000, the trail system has grown into one of the premier OHV destinations in the eastern United States, attracting thousands of riders annually. Key stops along the trail include several trailheads with amenities such as fueling stations, campgrounds, and restaurants tailored to OHV users. The trails vary from easy, beginner-friendly paths to challenging, technical rides with steep climbs and descents. Visitor appeal is boosted by the system's accessibility, well-maintained routes, and its integration with local communities, offering riders a full experience both on and off the trails. The Hatfield-McCoy Trail System promotes responsible riding and works to protect the local ecology while maintaining extensive outdoor recreation opportunities for the public.

Field Guide · Trail System
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Hatfield-McCoy Trail System

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ The Hatfield-McCoy Trail System Center - a hub offering rentals, repairs, and rider support✦ Scenic views of the Appalachian Mountains and surrounding valleys✦ Challenging technical trails for advanced riders with rock gardens and steep grades✦ Remote trail sections that provide quiet, immersive riding experiences
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Hatfield-McCoy Trail System

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Hatfield-McCoy Trail System
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Hatfield-McCoy Trail System
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Hatfield-McCoy Trail System
Park Recreation

ATV and Off-Highway Vehicle Riding

Available in Hatfield-McCoy Trail System
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Hatfield-McCoy Trail System
Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Hatfield-McCoy Trail System
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Hatfield-McCoy Trail System.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Trailin use requires an OHV permit available through the West Virginia State Parks system; fees apply for trail access and permits.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Hatfield-McCoy Trail System

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Beech Fork Campground

Located near one of the main trailheads, Beech Fork offers amenities like water, restrooms, and sites suitable for tents and RVs.

East Lynn Campground

A more rustic option along the trail system, suited for riders wanting closer proximity to trail riding with limited facilities.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Hatfield-McCoy Trail System

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Williamson, West Virginia
⌖ 2.15 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Williamson, West Virginia

Williamson offers quiet Appalachian outdoor adventures with paddling on the Tug Fork River, hiking nearby trails, and mountain biking in wooded hills. It’s a peaceful base for exploring West Virginia’s coal country and natural beauty.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Belfry, Kentucky
⌖ 3.62 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Belfry, Kentucky

Belfry, Kentucky offers outdoor lovers peaceful Appalachian forests, calm rivers, and rugged trails perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and paddling. It’s an ideal spot for those seeking quiet, natural adventures off the main tourist routes.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Matewan, West Virginia
⌖ 8.51 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Matewan, West Virginia

Matewan is a quiet mountain town in West Virginia offering rugged hiking, paddling, and mountain biking adventures through the historic Tug Fork River valley and Hatfield-McCoy trail system.

Spring to Fall
Explore Town
Taylorsville, West Virginia
⌖ 8.65 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Taylorsville, West Virginia

Taylorsville, WV is a quiet gateway to Monongahela National Forest offering hiking, fishing, paddling, and camping. Ideal for travelers seeking a peaceful forest retreat away from crowds.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Pikeville, Kentucky
⌖ 16.73 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Pikeville, Kentucky

Pikeville offers outdoor adventure with hiking, paddling, biking, and fishing opportunities set in the rugged hills of Eastern Kentucky. It’s a quiet spot with access to scenic river corridors and forest trails.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Inez, Kentucky
⌖ 18.83 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Inez, Kentucky

Inez, Kentucky is a peaceful Appalachian town offering woodland trails, paddling on the Tug Fork River, and quiet camping spots. It’s a great destination for travelers seeking rugged outdoor experiences away from crowded hotspots.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Hatfield-McCoy Trail System

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

A Private Picnic in the Splash: Renting the Shelter at Breaks Waterpark
ADVEXPEDITION
Breaks, Virginia
Water ActivitiesADV Bookable

A Private Picnic in the Splash: Renting the Shelter at Breaks Waterpark

Breaks Interstate Park’s Waterpark Shelter Rental gives you an exclusive shelter inside the waterpark with four picnic tables and admission for up to 10 guests; this guide explains the rules, booking steps, and what you may bring.

Water ActivitiesPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Lower Gauley: 13 Miles of Canyon-Cut Whitewater and Fall Color
ADVEXPEDITION
Russellville, West Virginia
RaftingADV Bookable

Lower Gauley: 13 Miles of Canyon-Cut Whitewater and Fall Color

A 4–6 hour, 13-mile guided rafting run with New & Gauley River Adventures through iconic rapids such as Koontz’s Flume and Pure Screaming Hell — this guide explains what to expect and how to plan.

RaftingPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip