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20 Best ATV Trails in N.C: North Carolina

If you’re an ATV enthusiast, then you know that North Carolina is a great place to ride. There’s something for everyone with miles of trails and forests to explore.

The Top 20 ATV Trails In North Carolina Are:

  1. Slab Pile Trail
  2. Sawmill Trail
  3. Rocky Mountain Loop
  4. The Pisgah National Forest
  5. Nantahala National Forest
  6. The Dicky Bell ATV Trail
  7. The Badin Lake OHV
  8. Patriot Mountain Lake Park
  9. The Croatan National Forest
  10. Outback Motorsports ATV Park
  11. Brushy Mountain Motor Sports Park
  12. Deep Creek ATV Park
  13. Cape Fear ATV and MX Park
  14. Carolina Backwoods Trail
  15. Art Lilley Camp Ground
  16. Dutch John Trail
  17. The Grandfather Ranger District
  18. The Wolf Den Trail
  19. Brown Mountain
  20. Busco Beach ATV Park

1. Slab Pile Trail:

Slab Pile Trail offers steep, rocky terrain and thrilling obstacles, making it a great challenge for off-roaders. While newcomers may find navigation tricky, experienced riders will enjoy the exciting climbs and rugged paths. If you’re up for an adventure, this trail is worth exploring!

Trail Length

Difficulty Level

Main Attraction

17 miles

Medium

It is blazed with orange diamond trail markers

2. Sawmill Trail:

Sawmill Trail is a renowned off-roading destination, offering steep hills, rocky cliffs, muddy bogs, and scenic views. Located in Southern Ohio, it has welcomed visitors since 1929. Riders of all skill levels can enjoy its challenging terrain, but steep climbs and descents require preparation. If you’re seeking an exciting off-road adventure, this trail is worth exploring!

Trail Length

Difficulty Level

Main Attraction

7.9 miles

High

Range of different terrains including hills, muddy bods and rocks

3. The Rocky Mountain Loop:

The Rocky Mountain Loop ATV Trail is a popular trail that offers stunning views of the Rocky Mountains. The trail is nearly 70 miles long, and it’s considered one of the most challenging trails in the area. Riders will navigate through steep hills, rocky terrain, and dense forests. The trail is sure to test the skills of even the most experienced riders. So if you’re looking for a challenging adventure, be sure to check out the Rocky Mountain Loop ATV Trail.

Trail Length

Difficulty Level

Main Attraction

70 miles

High

Rocky surface and dense forest

4. The Pisgah National Forest:

The Pisgah National Forest is home to the Appalachian Trail. It also contains over 400 miles of trails designated for ATV use, including the Blue Ridge Parkway trail and the Art Loeb Trail. You’ll find all types of terrain in these forested mountains – hills, valleys, water crossings, swamps, and more. This is an ideal place to explore for off-road enthusiasts who want a little bit of everything while enjoying some beautiful forest views!

The Art Loeb trail was named after one of its founders Charles E. “Art” Loeb Jr., an avid off-roader who loved exploring new areas with his son David in tow. The trail starts near Highway 276 at Camp Aliceville.

Trail Length

Difficulty Level

Main Attraction

400 miles
(Complete Forest Length)

Easy-to-Moderate

Multiple Terrain Area i.e Hills, valleys water crossings

5. Nantahala National Forest:

Nantahala National Forest offers nearly 300 miles of off-road trails for ATVs. The trails are well-marked and range in difficulty from easy to difficult. The forest is also home to several scenic overlooks, waterfalls, and other natural attractions.

Whether a beginner or an experienced ATV rider, Nantahala National Forest has something to offer everyone. The trails are well maintained and offer a variety of terrain to ride on. Be sure to check the map before you head out, as some trails are designated for motorcycles only.

Trail Length

Difficulty Level

Main Attraction

600 miles

Low

Waterfalls, Woods

6. The Dicky Bell ATV Trail:

The Dickey Bell ATV Trail is a premier destination for off-road enthusiasts in upstate New York. The trail system consists of more than 100 miles of trails that wind through the forests and hills of central New York. Riders will find everything from easy scenic trails to challenging hill climbs and creek crossings. A well-maintained trail system and knowledgeable volunteers make the Dickey Bell ATV Trail a must-ride destination for off-roaders of all abilities.

Trail Length

Difficulty Level

Main Attraction

100 miles

Medium

Scenic Beauty of New York Central Park

7.The Badin Lake OHV:

The Badin Lake OHV Trail Complex is located in the North Carolina mountains about 50 miles west of Asheville. The trails are well-marked and maintained, with more than 260 miles of single track to explore. Whether you’re looking for an exhilarating ride or a peaceful hike, there’s something for everyone at this off-road hotspot!

Trail Length

Difficulty Level

Main Attraction

300 miles

Low

Single Track Trail of 260 miles

8. Patriot Mountain Lake Park:

On July 4th weekend, a group of off-road enthusiasts gathered at Patriot Mountain to ride the new ATV trail. The trail is one of the most challenging, winding through the woods and up the mountain. Riders were excited to try out the new path, and some even managed to make it to the top! This trail is worth checking out for those who enjoy a good challenge. Thanks to all who helped build and maintain it!

Trail Length

Difficulty Level

Main Attraction

0.9 miles

Low

Forest Terrain ranging up to Hill Top

9. The Croatan National Forest:

Croatan National Forest offers 53 miles of ATV trails, ranging from easy to difficult, making it a great spot for off-roaders. Some trails feature twists, turns, and wooded paths, providing a challenging ride, while others are less intense for a more relaxed experience. Whether you’re testing your skills or enjoying the scenery, there’s a trail for everyone!

Trail Length

Difficulty Level

Main Attraction

53 miles

Medium to High

Woods with narrow passages

10. Outback Motorsports ATV Park:

Outback Motorsports ATV Park offers 100+ acres of trails, open daily from 8 AM to 6 PM, with extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays. Visitors must sign a liability agreement before riding, as off-road vehicles require careful handling. If you’re looking for an exciting desert adventure, this park is a great choice.

Trail Length

Difficulty Level

Main Attraction

100 Acres

Low

Sand dunes and Mud trails

11. Brushy Mountain Motor Sports Park:

Brushy Mountain Motorsports Park in Wilkes County, North Carolina, spans 300 acres and offers single-track trails, extreme rock crawling, and scenic routes. Future additions include a motocross and go-kart track, making it an exciting off-road destination. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a beginner, this park promises thrills and adventure.

Trail Length

Difficulty Level

Main Attraction

300 acres

Medium

Rock crawling

12. Deep Creek ATV Park:

Deep Creek ATV Park is located in southern California. The off-roading park features a variety of trails, which are perfect for beginners through experts alike. With over 2000 acres to explore, there is plenty of adventure to be had!

Trail Length

Difficulty Level

Main Attraction

2000 acres

Medium

Mud bogs, Pits and Sandy Surface

13. Cape Fear ATV and MX Park:

If you’re looking for an off-road adventure, Cape Fear ATV and MX Park is the place for you. With over 1,500 acres of trails to explore, you’ll never run out of things to see and do. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, there’s something for everyone at this park. So what are you waiting for? Grab your friends and head on over to Cape Fear ATV and MX Park today!

Trail Length

Difficulty Level

Main Attraction

1500 acres

Medium

Mud and Rocky trails

14. Carolina Backwoods Trail:

Carolina Backwoods Trail offers steep inclines, sharp turns, and rugged terrain, making it a thrilling challenge for off-roaders. Whether you’re an experienced rider or seeking an adventurous day with friends, this trail delivers excitement. Pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable ride!

Trail Length

Difficulty Level

Main Attraction

200 acres

High

Steep incline, sharp turns and rugged terrain

15. Art Lilley CampGround:

If you’re an off-roader, you need to check out Art Lilley Campground. It’s a hidden gem in the mountains of North Carolina, and it’s the perfect place to test your driving skills. The campground is owned and operated by a group of friendly off-road enthusiasts, and they’ve built some amazing trails that will put your rig to the test. So if you’re looking for a challenging off-road experience, head to Art Lilley Campground. You won’t be disappointed.

Trail Length

Difficulty Level

Main Attraction

200 acres

Low

Campground Mountains

16. Dutch John Trail:

If you’re an off-roader and haven’t had the chance to check out the Dutch John ATV Trail, you’re missing out! This trail is a must-do for any serious off-road enthusiast. With its steep climbs and sharp drops, this trial will test your skills and bravery alike. But don’t let that scare you away – Dutch John is also one of the most scenic trails in the area and well worth the effort.

So if you’re up for a challenge, put Dutch John at the top of your list! The Dutch John ATV Trail will test your skills and provide hours of fun with challenging hills, rocky terrain, and plenty of mud pits. So what are you waiting for? Pack up your rig and head for Dutch John!

Trail Length

Difficulty Level

Main Attraction

1.8 miles

High

Mud pits followed by rocky terrain

17. The Grandfather Ranger District:

The Grandfather Ranger District is an off-roaders paradise, boasting more than 1,000 miles of trails across its 8,600 acres. With something for everyone, from beginner riders to experienced experts, the district is a popular destination for those who love getting their wheels dirty.

Whether you’re looking to explore the backcountry or take a leisurely cruise through the forest, Grandfather Ranger District has something for you. So what are you waiting for? Pack up your rig and head on over!

Trail Length

Difficulty Level

Main Attraction

8600 acres

Easy-to-Moderate

Woods and muddy trails

18. The Wolf Den Trail:

The Wolf Den Trail is a challenging off-road route that offers a great variety of terrain for off-road enthusiasts. The trail winds through the rocky canyons and hills of the area, providing drivers with plenty of interesting challenges and scenery. The Wolf Den Trail is sure to test the skills of an experienced driver, so be prepared for a real adventure!

Trail Length

Difficulty Level

Main Attraction

4.2 miles

Low

Rocky canyon and Hilly Areas

19. Brown Mountain:

Brown Mountain is a popular off-road trail system with over 30 miles of trails. There are both easy and difficult routes available for all riders, from beginner to expert. The terrain ranges from a single sandy track through forests to rocky mountain climbs.

Riders often see deer, coyotes, and wild turkeys on the trail. Brown Mountain offers more than just dirt; many scenic views provide spectacular vistas in every direction you look!

Trail Length

Difficulty Level

Main Attraction

1.5 miles

High

Forest to rocky climb

20. Busco Beach and ATV Park:

Welcome to Busco Beach and ATV Park. If you’re an off-roader, there’s a good chance you’ve heard of the Busco Beach Trail. It’s one of the most famous off-road trails in the country, and for a good reason. The trail is challenging and provides drivers with a lot of great scenery.

If you’re looking for a great off-road adventure, the Busco Beach Trail is worth checking out, where enthusiasts can enjoy a scenic ride along miles of sandy beach or up into the mountains on one of our many trails. It has plenty for everyone here at Busco Beach and ATV Park.

Happy riding!

Trail Length

Difficulty Level

Main Attraction

2000 acres

Low

Sandy beach

Conclusion:

If you are looking for a new adventure, want to find trails close by, or need help finding the best trail in North Carolina, this list might be helpful. The National Forests in North Carolina, where gentle mountain slopes stretch for miles, with gardens of magenta rhododendron, salt marshes that connect to the sea, and lakes surrounded by pine forests. 

We hope these 20 ATV Trails will motivate you to get out and enjoy some fresh air on your next weekend off! Enjoy responsibly and always wear safety gear when riding any motorized vehicle.

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