Here Are the Best Wayne National Forest ATV Trails

wayne national forest atv trails

Nothing can feel better than the rush of wind in your hair and grit in your teeth after driving ATVs across the miles of trails and pathways in Hocking Hills. Many paths are multi-use, sharing trails with hikers and horseback riders. Explore the endless possibilities for adrenaline-seeking adventure with this guide to the best Wayne National Forest ATV trails.

Wayne National Forest

A visit to Wayne National Forest presents many opportunities for fun and adventure. Four trail systems allow ATV runs from mid-April through mid-December. Monday Creek, Hanging Rock, Pine Creek, and Superior require passes (about $20 for three days or $35 for the season) and a permit. Rent or bring your own ATV for the fun. 

Monday Creek

Monday Creek offers many miles of trails for ATV riders. Located near Nelsonville, be prepared for all-day fun with 75 miles of trails. Since the trails are shared with bikers and hikers, caution is required when riding. Lots of variety for all skill levels. Load up at one of two spots: New Straitsville and White Oak to get started.

Hanging Rock

Hanging Rock trails contain many pathways to adrenaline-pumping fun. Located in an area strip-mined in the 60s and 70s, this challenging trail is not for the faint of heart. Enter the trail from Hanging Rock Trailhead on Highway 650 off Highway 52. Don’t be fooled, this difficult course is filled with up and downhill descents, water crossings, unexpected jumps, and a hard pack mixed with loose dirt to keep it interesting. 

Dorr Run Loop

Dorr Run Loop is a popular trail with five spots to blaze the trails in your ATV. Burn rubber on 8 available trailheads including New Straitsville. The rides are thrilling with steep slopes and winding trails throughout. Enjoy other aspects of the trail including fishing ponds scattered along the trail. All of this makes for a fun, scenic ride as well as challenging.

Pine Creek

Hike or bike Pine Creek if you wish, but ATVing is where it is at on these 20 miles of open space to explore. Ride onto the system at Telegraph, Lyra, or Wolcott Trailheads. Some parts of the trail are private property so watch signs closely. Enjoy this trail solo or with friends and stay nearby at any of the cabins or camp out for a more rustic experience. 

Superior Trail

Less trail does not mean less excitement on 16.5 miles of riding for ATVs, mountain bikes, and more. One of the more narrow trails, smaller ATVs do better on this trail. Access Superior Trail off State Route 52. Connect to the Pinke Creek Trail system to increase the length of fun both in time and miles. Looping in and out of the trail systems is what makes ATV riding in Hocking Hills a true adventure.

Relax after a long day of riding at local accommodations throughout Hocking Hills. An on-site spa may be in order or just a relaxing visit by the fireplace. Enjoy the many options to explore Hocking Hills in other ways, also, once ATV riding is done. Exploring is the nature of the game at this beautiful, majestic Ohio playground.

 

 

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