Spearhead Trails: Complete Guide to ATV Riding in Southwest Virginia

400+ miles of mountain riding. Get out here.

If you are searching for one of the most dynamic off-road experiences in the eastern United States, Spearhead Trails ATV Southwest Virginia delivers it in a way few trail systems can match.

Spread across the Heart of Appalachia, Spearhead Trails is a vast, interconnected network of more than 400 miles of ATV, side-by-side, Jeep, and equestrian trails that wind through reclaimed coalfields, mountain ridges, hardwood forests, and Appalachian valleys.

This is not just a riding destination. It is a story of transformation.

What was once coal mining land has been carefully reclaimed and restored into a thriving outdoor recreation system. The remnants of mining are barely recognizable. Riders now experience trails in the forest canopy, with challenging curves that make the riding experience one where you’re truly in the mountains! Experience wildlife habitat and observation platforms built for wildlife viewing – and get ready for panoramic overlooks that feel completely untouched.

For riders seeking adventure, scenery, and variety, Spearhead Trails ATV Southwest Virginia is one of the most unique off-road systems in the country.

Two mud-covered off-road riders wearing full-face helmets pose on and beside their muddy Polaris RZR UTVs in front of a brick building in a Virginia trail town.

Photo Credit: Gabby Beckford

A Reclaimed Landscape Turned Adventure Destination

Two trail riders sit on an ATV and a dirt bike at golden hour sunset, looking out over the mountain ridges of Southwest Virginia.

Photo Credit: Sam Dean

One of the most compelling aspects of Spearhead Trails ATV Southwest Virginia is its origin story.

Much of the trail system is built on former coal mining lands. Through extensive reclamation efforts, these landscapes have been restored into healthy ecosystems filled with hardwood forests, native grasses, and returning wildlife.

Today, riders experience:

  • Rolling Appalachian ridgelines
  • Forested mountain corridors
  • Open reclaimed mine lands transformed into green space
  • Scenic overlooks and ridge views
  • Expanding wildlife habitats

The result is a trail system where every ride feels like a journey through both natural beauty and living history. It is rare to find a place where recreation and restoration are so closely connected.

What Is Spearhead Trails?

At its core, Spearhead Trails ATV Southwest Virginia is a multi-use motorized trail system designed for:

  • ATVs (all-terrain vehicles)
  • Side-by-sides (UTVs)
  • Jeep and street-legal off-road vehicles
  • Equestrian riders (on designated trails)

The system connects multiple counties across Southwest Virginia, creating a regional network of outdoor adventure opportunities.

Unlike single-use parks or small trail systems, Spearhead Trails offers variety, scale, and flexibility. Riders can explore technical terrain one day and scenic ridge riding the next.

Each trail system is rated for difficulty, helping visitors choose routes that match their comfort and experience level.

Silhouette of off-road riders with an ATV and dirt bike at sunset, looking out over a mountain ridge in Virginia.

Photo Credit: Sam Dean

Trail System Where Miles Good for
Mountain View Coeburn & St. Paul, Wise County 118 All levels, plus 20 miles of dirt-bike single-track
Ridgeview Haysi, Dickenson County 78 Family-friendly mix, views near Breaks Interstate Park
Coal Canyon Grundy, Buchanan County 127 All levels, reclaimed-mine terrain and wildlife
Stone Mountain Pennington Gap, Lee County 34 Most challenging, no beginner trails, scenic overlooks
Jawbone Richlands, Tazewell County 100 The only system open to Jeeps and full-size 4x4s
Original Pocahontas Bluefield, Tazewell County 94 Beginner to intermediate, connects to the Hatfield-McCoy system
Laurel Creek Bluefield, Tazewell County 9 Newest, mostly beginner, some hard-top riding

Major Trail Systems Across the Region

The strength of Spearhead Trails ATV Southwest Virginia lies in its diversity. Each trail system has its own personality, terrain, and riding experience:

Mountain View Trail:
Wise County

118 miles • Trailheads: St. Paul & Coeburn

A scenic and accessible trail system featuring forest riding, smooth terrain, and beautiful ridge views – plus 20 miles of single track. Ideal for beginners and families.

A mud-splattered red Polaris RZR UTV driving through a dense, green forested off-road trail in Virginia.

Ridgeview Trail:
Dickenson County

78 miles • Trailhead: Haysi

Known for its elevated forest routes and sweeping Appalachian views, Ridgeview offers a balanced mix of scenery and light technical riding on family-friendly trails.

A red side-by-side exits a shallow creek crossing on a forest trail in SW Virginia's Ridgeview Trail.

Coal Canyon Trail:
Buchanan County

127 miles • Trailhead: Grundy

One of the most rugged and visually dramatic trail systems, Coal Canyon runs through reclaimed mining landscapes and deep Appalachian terrain. Wildlife sightings – including deer, elk, and black bear – are common.

A muddy side-by-side vehicle climbing a steep, rocky trail in the open terrain of the Coal Canyon Trail System in Virginia.

Stone Mountain Trail:
Lee County

34 miles • Trailhead: Pennington Gap

A scenic forest and ridge system through hardwood canopies and rolling terrain – and the system’s most challenging riding, with no beginner-rated trails. Best for experienced riders.

Off-road vehicles and a dirt bike travel along a mountain ridgeline trail overlooking the forests of Southwest Virginia.

Jawbone Trail:
Tazewell County

100 miles • 4 overlooks • Trailhead: Richlands

The only Jeep and street-legal vehicle trail in the system, Jawbone is a signature destination for off-road enthusiasts seeking mud, climbs, and expansive mountain overlooks. Connects with Coal Canyon at Jewell Valley at the county line.

An action shot of an off-road side-by-side UTV kicking up mud and water as it navigates a rugged, wooded trail in Virginia.

Original Pocahontas Trail:
Tazewell County

94 miles • 10 miles single track • Trailheads: Pocahontas & Bluefield

One of the original Spearhead routes, offering a traditional ATV experience through forested mountain landscapes. Connects to the Hatfield-McCoy Trails in West Virginia.

A mud-covered side-by-side drives along a wet forest trail after recent rain in Southwest Virginia.

Laurel Creek Trail: Tazewell County

9.14 miles • 65% green • 2.37 miles of ATV-approved hardtop road • Trailhead: Bluefield

A smoother, more accessible riding area ideal for families and those looking for a relaxed trail experience. Ride the blacktop on VDOT-approved roads to connect to the Original Pocahontas Trail – with more trail to come.

Three side-by-side ATVs riding through a shaded hardwood forest trail in Virginia's Heart of Appalachia region.

Each system contributes to the broader experience of Spearhead Trails ATV Southwest Virginia, ensuring there is always something new to explore.

Wildlife and Natural Encounters on the Trail

One of the most exciting aspects of riding Spearhead Trails is the chance to experience Appalachian wildlife in its natural habitat.

Depending on the trail system, riders may encounter:

  • White-tailed deer
  • Black bear
  • Wild turkey
  • Elk (in designated habitat areas)
  • Songbirds and raptors overhead

Coal Canyon, in particular, lies near elk habitat zones, making wildlife encounters especially memorable.

The combination of reclaimed land and natural forest corridors has created a thriving environment where wildlife continues to return and expand.

Jawbone Trail: Jeep Adventure and Scenic Overlooks

Among all systems in Spearhead Trails ATV Southwest Virginia, the Jawbone Trail stands out as a premier Jeep and off-road SUV destination.

This trail offers:

  • Mud-heavy terrain sections
  • Technical rock and ridge climbs
  • Wide scenic overlooks
  • High-elevation mountain views
  • Street-legal vehicle access

It is one of the most popular off-road experiences in Southwest Virginia, attracting Jeep clubs, adventure travelers, and weekend explorers alike.

For many riders, Jawbone represents the perfect balance of challenge and scenery.

A mud-splattered yellow Jeep Wrangler climbs a steep, rugged dirt incline on the Jawbone Trail System in Richlands, Tazewell County, Virginia.

A lineup of off-road riders on ATVs wearing full-face helmets riding down a winding dirt trail in the Stone Mountain Trail System of Virginia.

A True Four-Season Riding Destination

Spearhead Trails is not limited to a single season – it is a year-round adventure system. Each season transforms the riding experience:

  • 1
    Spring: Fresh green forests and flowing streams
  • 2
    Summer: Dense canopy cover and shaded riding routes
  • 3
    Fall: Peak Appalachian foliage across ridgelines
  • 4
    Winter: Snow-dusted trails and crisp mountain air

This four-season accessibility is one of the reasons Spearhead Trails ATV Southwest Virginia continues to grow in popularity. No matter when you visit, the terrain offers something new.

Connecting Communities Through the Trail System

A driver wearing a green helmet operates a blue Polaris side-by-side UTV on the ATV-friendly main street of downtown St. Paul, Virginia.

Photo Credit: Sam Dean

Beyond recreation, Spearhead Trails plays a key role in connecting Appalachian communities.

Riders can travel between towns, stopping for:

  • Meals in local restaurants
  • Fuel and supplies
  • Small-town shopping
  • Cultural and historic experiences

For example, riders may begin in St. Paul, travel through connecting trail systems, and stop in nearby Coeburn for a meal before continuing their journey.

This integration of recreation and community makes Spearhead Trails more than a trail system – it becomes a regional experience.

Rentals, Lodging, and Visitor Access

One of the most accessible aspects of Spearhead Trails ATV Southwest Virginia is that visitors do not need to own equipment to participate.

Options include:

  • ATV and side-by-side rentals
  • Guided riding experiences
  • Trailhead access points across multiple counties
  • Lodging including cabins, hotels, and campgrounds

This makes the system welcoming for both first-time riders and experienced off-road enthusiasts. Whether planning a weekend getaway or a full adventure trip, visitors can easily build a complete experience around Spearhead Trails.

Permits, Safety, and Responsible Riding

To ensure safe and sustainable use of the trail system, Spearhead Trails requires all riders to follow key guidelines:

  • Permits are mandatory, even for passengers and kids, and are sold online only. Buy your 3-day or annual permit at spearheadtrails.com before you arrive
  • Helmets are mandatory, and motor vehicle laws must be followed at all times
  • Riders under 18 must be supervised by an adult
  • Protective gear (gloves, boots, eyewear) is strongly recommended
  • Follow trail difficulty ratings and posted signage

These guidelines help protect riders, preserve the trails, and ensure long-term sustainability of the system.

The Experience: More Than Just Riding

A rider navigates a red ATV featuring a Spearhead Trails logo plate up a steep dirt incline with mountain ranges in the background.

What sets Spearhead Trails ATV Southwest Virginia apart is not just the miles of trail – it is the experience.

It is the feeling of riding through reclaimed landscapes reborn as forests, mountain ridges stretching into the horizon, quiet valleys carved by time, and communities shaped by Appalachian heritage.

It is adrenaline and peace at the same time. It is movement through a landscape that tells a story of resilience and renewal.

Spearhead Trails represents one of the most unique outdoor recreation systems in the eastern United States – combining large-scale trail networks, reclaimed mountain landscapes, multi-use access for all types of riders, small-town Appalachian culture, and year-round riding opportunities.

For anyone exploring the Heart of Appalachia, Spearhead Trails ATV Southwest Virginia is not just an activity – it is a defining experience.

Ride it once, and you understand why it belongs to the Best of Virginia’s West. Ride it again, and you discover something new every time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Spearhead Trails is a network of seven ATV and off-highway-vehicle trail systems totaling more than 400 miles across the coalfields of Southwest Virginia, run by the Southwest Regional Recreation Authority. Much of it is built on reclaimed mine land. The trails are open sunrise to sunset, 365 days a year, with a 25 mph speed limit.

Yes. Every rider and passenger needs a permit, including kids, and helmets are required. Permits are sold online only, so buy before you arrive. A 3-day permit is $25 and annual permits start at $38.

Several systems are beginner-friendly, with a large share of green (easy) trails, including Laurel Creek, Coal Canyon, Ridgeview, and Original Pocahontas. Stone Mountain is the most challenging, with no beginner-rated routes.

Yes, on the Jawbone system near Richlands, which is built for full-size 4x4s, Jeeps, and street-legal off-highway vehicles. The other systems are for ATVs, side-by-sides, and dirt bikes.

Buy permits online at spearheadtrails.com before you ride. Trail maps are available through the OnX Off-Road app, the official mapping partner, or as free PDF downloads.

Get Out Here

For maps, trailhead addresses, and permits (one-day or annual), visit spearheadtrails.com – then use our free trip planner to build the rest of your riding weekend, from lodging to local dining.

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