There’s nothing like the rush of dirt biking. Whether you’re brand new to riding or consider yourself an expert, Virginian trails await. Below you’ll find five great dirt biking trails ranging in experience level, length, and difficulty. But make no mistake—each showcase the best of what Virginia has to offer.
The Stone Mountain Trails in Pennington Gap, Virginia, offer over 30 miles of off-roading adventure for expert level riders. The trail is considered “technical,” meaning experienced skills are required to navigate the roadblocks that might appear along the path, including roots, rocks, and holes. But if you’re capable enough to brave the trail, you’ll be rewarded with nine panoramic overlooks that will take even the hardest biker’s breath away. Permit required.
Coal Canyon Trail in Grundy, Virginia, along with Stone Mountain and three others, collectively make up over 150 miles of off-roading routes known as the Spearhead Trails system. We have chosen to highlight the Stone Mountain Trail for its complexity, and the Coal Canyon trail for its ease of entry. The trail is 61 miles-long and covers the expanse of an old coalfield. Rider and family centric, Coal Canyon is the perfect place to bring a new rider. Permits are required here, too.
Peters Mill Run, combined with Taskers Gap, create the largest off-highway vehicle trails in Virginia. Permits are required. The trails are open from March through the third Monday in January. Peters Mill is 12 miles-long and is generally considered doable for moderate enthusiasts.
Taskers Gap is the second trail system accessible from Edinburg and the Taskers Staging Area. The trail is approximately 28 miles-long and is more challenging than Peters Mill Run. Again, a permit is required, so make sure to check the list of local vendors to pick one up ahead of time. Call ahead to ensure there isn’t any inclement weather or downed trees before you arrive.
Slades Park provides 12 miles of trails along with dirt drag races in a more controlled environment than regular nature trails. Campsite hookups are available for $20 per day to make a weekend outing more enjoyable. Junior riders are welcome to try the Pee Wee track first, to get the feel of their bikes before heading out onto the longer trails. Snacks are available on-site. No permit is required, but all riders must wear a helmet.
