• The Blue Mountains of Virginia host a variety of ATV trails.virginia blue ridge image by John Keith from Fotolia.com
  
  Although "Virginia is for Lovers" is the commonwealth's tourism tagline, Virginia is also the place for outdoor recreation enthusiasts. From the Chesapeake Bay to the Blue Mountains, there are a wealth of things to see and do in the commonwealth. For ATV enthusiasts, finding mountain trails to explore is often at the top of the list.
  
  

Patterson Mountain OHV Trail

• Located in the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, near Eagle Rock, Virginia, the Patterson Mountain OHV trail system offers ATV enthusiasts 15 miles of moderately difficult trails to explore. These technically challenging trails meander through deep valleys, steep inclines and water crossings, between elevations of 1,200 and 1,500 feet. While most of the trail system is suitable for those riders with a moderate amount of riding experience, there are a few sections suited for novice riders, as well as some areas more suited to expert riders.
  
  As this trail system is located in a national forest, parking and entry is free. However, an end cap or spark arresting silencer is required for all vehicles. Safety helmets are required, double riding is prohibited and riders must be 12 years of age or older. Riders may utilize the trails from dawn to dusk, June 16th through September 30th and December 8th through March 15th.
  
  George Washington & Jefferson National Forests
  5162 Valleypointe Parkway
  Roanoke, VA 24019
  540-265-5100
  fs.fed.us
  
  

Peters Mill Run and Taskers Gap OHV Trail

• In the Lee Ranger District of the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, near Edinburg, Virginia, the Peters Mill Run and Taskers Gap OHV trail systems offer riders about 40 miles of mountain trails. Peters Mill Run is located to the north and features 12 miles of jeep trails consisting of rocky terrain, with an occasional water crossing. The Taskers Gap OHV trail system offers riders more than 25 miles of mountain trails. Both trail systems are located at elevations between 1,500 and 2,500 feet. Most of the trails in these two systems are suited for riders with some experience; however, Peters Mill Run does have some trail novice riders will enjoy.
  
  As this trail system is located in a national forest, parking and entry is free. However, a Peters Mill Run/Taskers Gap OHV Trail Complex pass must be purchased, prior to riding. The Lee Ranger District website offers a listing of locations where these can be purchased. An end cap or spark arresting silencer is required for all vehicles and those riding the Lawbreaker (553A) and Huckleberry (553B) trails are requested to take curves at slower speeds to reduce noise. Safety helmets are required, double riding is prohibited and riders must be 12 years of age or older. Riders may utilize the trails from dawn to dusk and are encouraged to call the Lee Ranger District to ensure trails are open.
  
  George Washington & Jefferson National Forests
  Lee Ranger District
  102 Koontz Street
  Edinburg, VA 22824
  540-984-4101
  fs.fed.us
  
  

South Pedlar ATV Trail System

• The South Pedlar ATV Trail System is located in the Glenwood-Pedlar Ranger District, of the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, near Lynchburg, VA. This system offers ATV riders 19 miles of trails ranging from those suitable for novice riders to some well-suited for expert riders, at elevations ranging from 800 to 1,700 feet. South Pedlar is typically open from April 1st through December 1st each year; however, riders are encouraged to call to ensure the trails are open.
  
  As this trail system is located in a national forest, parking and entry is free. However, there is a riding fee and fee information can be found at the trailheads. Trails are limited to ATVs 50" or less in width, and an end cap or spark arresting silencer is required for all vehicles. Camping is allowed in the area, with the exception of 500 feet from riparian areas and trailheads. These trails are commonly used also by mountain bikers and hikers and, as such, caution when riding is necessary.
  
  George Washington & Jefferson National Forests
  Glenwood/Pedlar Ranger Districts
  P.O. Box 10
  Natural Bridge Station, VA 24579
  540-291-2188
  fs.fed.us