By Chris Zeto, WVSU Extension Agent

Summer is quickly approaching, which means many of us will be planning how we’ll spend our vacations. While the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic may impact your family’s ability and willingness to travel to places like the beach or to an amusement park, that doesn’t mean you can’t plan an amazing trip a little closer to home. For instance, exploring the many off-trails that make up southern West Virginia’s Hatfield-McCoy Trail system. 
 
The Hatfield-McCoy Trails system is an off-road park offering over 1,000 miles of thrill-seeking ATV, UTV, dirt bike and Jeep trails that are customizable to suit your entire family’s interests and skills. Whether you and your family are looking for outdoor adventure or simply want to explore the state’s history, food, shops, and small-culture, some time on the trails could meet all your needs. 
 
Experience West Virginia History and Culture
Learn about our state’s rich history by visiting the different ATV-friendly towns. Visit Matewan to learn about the Hatfield-McCoy feud and the infamous Matewan Massacre. In the town of Gilbert, you’ll discover how moonshine is made. In Bramwell you can tour some magnificent mansions. Visit the town of Logan and take a trip down the river in a kayak or canoe. While you are in town, don’t forget to stop by one, or two, of the wonderful local restaurants for some down-home southern cooking. With over 1,000 miles of trails, you won’t see the same spot twice and will fill your day with some lovely, scenic views. After a day full of exploring the trails and history, relax by the campfire while nibbling on a hot s’more and listening to some local bluegrass music.       
 
Mind Your Trail Manners
While traveling along the trail system, it is important to remember some basic yet helpful trail etiquette ideas. Here are some tips to keep everyone safe and happy:
  • Do not litter. All trash and waste items need to be properly disposed of.
  • Use hand signals to represent the number of machines/units in your group. This tip is very helpful when two separate groups meet along the trail in tight spaces or corners. A closed fist means that there are no more machines following you. An open hand, with five fingers up, means that there are five more machines following the person giving the signal. 
  • When stopping along the trail, to stretch your legs or to study an odd tree, always park your machine to the left or right of the trail. Keep in mind that other guests can approach quickly and that accidents can occur. 
  • Be aware of your surroundings. If you are enjoying the trails at a slow pace, be courteous and let others go around you. 
  • Never follow another machine too closely. 
  • Check out the rules and regulations of the trail system before you go.
  • Pay attention to the signs that are posted along the trails.
  • Slow down and yield at all intersections. You never know when you will meet another rider.
  • Do not consume alcohol while riding along the trails. Never drink and drive.
  • Stop to help others. If you notice that someone may be in trouble, stop to check or send for help.
  • Always use the buddy system. Never ride alone.
 
What to Bring
Before you venture out, even if you are an experienced rider, be sure you have the necessary equipment and gear you need to hit the trails. Remember, you always want to wear an approved helmet and protective eyewear. Over-the-ankle footwear and gloves are also strongly encouraged for ATV riding. These basic items, along with a jersey and riding pants or water-resistant pants, not only offer greater protection than ‘everyday’ clothes, but also make riding much more comfortable. What you wear on the trail is as important as what you wear off the trail!
 
The riding gear is encouraged because it protects you from the elements—including branches, bugs, mud and dust that may come your way.  And should you crash your ATV, you’ll be glad your head, eyes and body are protected. Here are some additional things to bring along, both on and off the trails.
 
On-The-Trail Check List
  • Helmet
  • Protective eyewear (goggles preferred but sunglasses or safety glasses are acceptable)
  • Over-the-ankle footwear (boots preferred but high-top sneakers are acceptable)
  • Long, water-resistant pants are suggested (shorts are acceptable but not encouraged)
  • Snacks
  • Plenty of water
  • Bug spray
  • Fully charged cell phone
  • Maps
 
Off-The-Trail Check List
  • Fresh T-shirt 
  • Dry, clean pants
  • Change of shoes and socks
  • Toiletry bag to freshen up
  • Towel
 
By bringing these items along with you, you will be ready to conquer any off-road trails that you encounter. 
 
The Hatfield-McCoy Trails system has 10 trails throughout the state for you and your family to explore. Check out TrailsHeaven.com to begin planning your summer vacation.
 
Chris Zeto is a community and economic development extension agent supporting the Hatfield McCoy Regional Recreation Authority. He is based in Logan County, West Virginia.