BRAMWELL, W.Va. — Off-road enthusiasts have even more ground to cover in central Appalachia. The Hatfield–McCoy Trail System announced this week that its Pocahontas Trail is now officially connected to Virginia’s Spearhead Trails, creating a seamless dual-state network for riders across the Appalachian Mountains.
The new link between the two systems means riders can now travel continuously between West Virginia and Virginia on a single route, expanding access to hundreds of additional miles of off-highway vehicle trails. The connection opens up new opportunities for tourism, outdoor recreation, and economic growth in both states.
“This connection brings together two of the premier trail systems in the nation,” the Hatfield–McCoy Regional Recreation Authority said in a statement.
“Riders can now experience even more miles to explore, whether on an ATV, UTV, or dirt bike. It’s an exciting milestone for both regions.”
The new trail connection joins the West Virginia trail system's Pocohontas Trails near historic Bramwell, West Virginia.
Officials reminded riders that a valid trail permit is required for both systems when crossing the state line. Trail maps showing the expanded routes are available on the Hatfield–McCoy Trails website at trailsheaven.com/trail-maps.
The Hatfield–McCoy Trail System, based in southern West Virginia, has grown into one of the largest networks of off-road vehicle trails in the United States since opening in 2000.
What began with roughly 300 miles of trails now spans eight counties—Boone, Lincoln, Logan, McDowell, Mercer, Mingo, Wayne, and Wyoming—and continues to expand toward a goal of more than 2,000 miles.
About the Hatfield–McCoy trails
Built primarily on private land through partnerships with landowners, the trails wind through rugged Appalachian terrain that once served as logging and mining routes. Riders can choose from a variety of routes, ranging from easy green trails to expert-level black-and-orange singletracks.
Many offer sweeping mountain views and pass through small towns where visitors can find fuel, food, and lodging.
Beyond recreation, the trail system has been a cornerstone of economic revitalization in southern West Virginia. As coal mining has declined, outdoor tourism has become a lifeline for many local communities. Restaurants, lodging facilities, and ATV rental shops have flourished near major trailheads, helping create jobs and draw visitors from across the country.
The trail network is named after the legendary Hatfield–McCoy feud, a storied 19th-century conflict between two Appalachian families along the Kentucky–West Virginia border. Today, that history blends with adventure tourism, giving riders a chance to experience the region's culture and landscape.
Riders planning to explore the newly connected trail systems are encouraged to prepare in advance by checking maps, ensuring proper permits, and packing for remote conditions where cell service may be limited.
About the Spearhead trails
Virginia’s Spearhead Trails system is located in the state’s southwestern Appalachian region. Developed under the Southwest Regional Recreation Authority, it was created to promote outdoor recreation and economic revitalization in communities once reliant on coal mining.
Spearhead Trails spans several counties—including Buchanan, Dickenson, Lee, Russell, Scott, Tazewell, and Wise—and features a diverse mix of terrain suited for ATVs, UTVs, dirt bikes, mountain biking, hiking, and horseback riding.
The trail network is designed to showcase the area’s natural beauty, winding through forests, ridgelines, and valleys that offer riders panoramic views and access to small mountain towns for dining, fuel, and lodging.
Each trail system within Spearhead—such as Mountain View, Coal Canyon, Ridgeview, and Original Pocahontas—offers unique challenges and experiences, with routes marked by skill level from easy to expert.
The system connects riders directly to local communities, boosting tourism and supporting small businesses across the region. Riders are required to obtain a valid Spearhead Trails permit, and safety regulations ensure responsible use of the land.
With its well-maintained paths, scenic landscapes, and growing reputation among outdoor enthusiasts, the Spearhead Trails system has become a cornerstone of Virginia’s adventure tourism—offering a gateway to explore both the state’s rugged terrain and its enduring Appalachian heritage.
With the new connection to Virginia’s Spearhead Trails, the Hatfield–McCoy Trail System continues its mission to unite communities, celebrate Appalachian heritage, and provide world-class outdoor experiences—one mountain trail at a time.
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