About Hatfield-McCoy Trails
Have you heard of Trails Heaven? Known to be Almost Heaven, the Mountain State of West Virginia is brimming with adventures on top of and in between every ridge. From its National Park to State Parks, visitors can find unique hiking trails and overlooks throughout the state.
Adding to West Virginia’s thrill of adventuring are the Hatfield-McCoy Trails. These trails offer endless miles of heart pumping rides for ATV, UTV, and dirt bike drivers. Visitors can navigate on their vehicle of choice through the historical landmarks and Appalachian culture built along the mountains.
We spent three days exploring the numerous small towns in Southwestern West Virginia with the West Virginia Department of Tourism, and were enthralled with breathtaking views of the endless mountains all the while zipping along the trails and through the towns.
After visiting The Hatfield-McCoy trails, this is how we would spend 3 days in West Virginia’s Trails Heaven.
Traveling to Hatfield-McCoy Trails
The Hatfield-McCoy Trail system spans over a large region of the Southeastern part of the state. A large majority of the activities and system focus around the town of Logan, WV. In tune of the wild and wonderful nature of West Virginia, the best means of access to this region is to drive there.
The nearest international airport is located in Charleston, West Virginia which is only 1 hour (57 miles) away from Logan, WV or the Bearwallow Trail System.
Here are the drive times one can expect from nearby major cities:
- Lexington, KY: 3 hours, 15 minutes (182 mi)
- Greensboro, NC: 4 hours, 25 minutes (240 mi)
- Cincinnati, OH: 4 hours (214 mi)
- Cleveland, OH: 4 hours, 50 minutes (308 mi)
- Columbus, OH: 3 hours, 30 minutes (210 mi)
- Pittsburgh, PA: 4 hours, 35 minutes (284 mi)
- Roanoke, VA: 3 hours, 45 minutes (179 mi)
- Knoxville, TN: 4 hours, 35 minutes (231 mi)
- Beckley, WV: 1 hour, 35 minutes (69 mi)
Be sure to plan in advance your arrival and departure times when visiting. There were limited electric vehicle charging stations available in the area or along our drive from Cleveland, OH. Some West Virginia State Parks do offer electric vehicle charging. Logan, WV is home to the Chief Logan State Park which does offer EV charging.
Getting Around the Trails
Understanding the Systems
We checked out only a small portion of West Virginia’s Trails Heaven. There are over 1,000 miles of trails divided into 11 systems overall. From beginner trails to challenging twists and turns for any expert, an adventure like no other is guaranteed.
Be sure to review the systems prior to picking your destination. Systems such as Rockhouse, Devil Anse, and Buffalo Mountain connect to several other trails and are the areas we predominantly mention throughout this post. Other systems such as Pinnacle Creek, Warrior, Indian Ridge, and Pochahontas trails connect within one another as well are located near many ATV resorts.
Whether you pick Rockhouse or Pinnacle Creek, all the trail systems are open to ATVs, UTVs, and dirt bikes. There are several trail systems that are ORV and Jeep friendly! Learn more at the Hatfield-McCoy Trails website.
Download Trail Maps
Once you’ve picked your spot, its important to download the trails map to your phone! Users can download or pick-up printed trail maps to carry with them. For those a bit more savvy you can download GIS and KMZ map data from the Hatfield-McCoy Trails website.
Trust us, you will need a map. Even with markers on the trails, it is easy to confuse your location if you do not adequately prepare. You can also download the Hatfield-McCoy trails rider app to learn more about trail head parking, permit vendors, and updates to the trails.
Types of Riders
When visiting, we were driven by a local Hatfield-McCoy employee to ensure we checked out all the best spots during our trip. However, anyone over the age of 16 can operate the vehicles and enjoy the trail systems.
Please do note that all riders must be over the age of 6 years old to be on the trails. Drivers under 16 years must be accompanied by an adult. Every rider or driver is required to have a permit for the trail. This makes this the perfect family adventure or friends reunion!
Obtaining Permits
All vehicles that will be driven on the trails require a trail permit. These permits are available in person only and can not be purchased online. However, there are over 180 locations where the permits are available to be purchased during business hours. In-state riders receive the “locals” discounted rate of $26.50 (plus tax) while out-of-state riders will pay $50 (plus tax).
Rates may vary year to year, but once purchased the permit is valid through December 31st of the purchasing year. Be sure to visit the official Hatfield-McCoy website for more details and information regarding the permit system.
When to Visit
Spring
April showers bring loads of puddles and mud to the trails during the spring season! For those who don’t mind getting a little extra dirty, we highly recommend planning your trip for the springtime. Splash your way along the trails as you watch the mountains come alive with pink rhododendron flowers and budding green leaves.
Temperatures are relatively mild during this time of year making it ideal for those who don’t enjoy riding in the heat.
Summer
Similar to most southern states, the Hatfield-McCoy trails experience hot and dry summers. A majority of the trail systems offer pockets of shade from the overhang of trees, the trails at this time can kick up some dust. Be prepared with proper trail protection including sun guards, neck gaiters, and protective eyewear.
When not zipping around the trails, new lodge and resort pools are popping up over the region. Cool off with your friends and family after your ride or in some of the creek systems along the way. Be sure not to ride your vehicle in the creek due to the protected crayfish often found in this area.
Fall
Fall is arguably the most beautiful time of year to visit. All trails are surrounded by rich forests and wind through the mountains, valleys, and peaks of the area.
Track the fall foliage calendar and you’ll be spending an extra long time staring out over the endless mountains. Be weary of visiting as this is the most popular time for the trail systems. Avoid larger crowds by visiting throughout the week.
Winter
Cold weather warriors, this is the season for you! Southwestern West Virginia experiences relatively mild winters in relation to “Northerners” from the midwest and northeastern United States. The locals told us that the snow usually lasts a day or two and they only receive a few inches at a time.
Additionally, a majority of the cabins, lodges, and resorts offer discounted rates throughout the winter months. For this reason, we are considering another weekend getaway here sometime in January or February (plus your permit will last you through the end of the year!)
How Much Time Do You Need?
Our visit to Logan, WV was 3 days and 2 nights. Considering travel time to and from Cleveland, OH we would recommend at least 4 to 5 days to get the full experience! While speaking with local business owners, we’ve heard of people staying upwards of one month!
Visitors can tackle portions of the trail within a 3 day window, however, the trail system closes after dark which can limit your time depending on the season. When we rode the trails our 3 hour adventure quickly turned into a 5 hour one as we explored the Rockhouse Trail System.
In addition to riding the trails, these systems act as an internal network to access various towns, restaurants, and businesses in the surrounding area. Riders can navigate their way from the State Park to downtown Logan to local museums or distilleries.
This is why we believe 4 to 5 days would be best. Visitors would have ample time to explore all the trails within their selection of Trails Heaven.
Where to Stay?
Cabins
We stayed at the Appalachian Outpost just a ten minute drive from downtown Logan. These cabins sleep up to 8 people and have 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. At the Appalachian Outpost you had everything you should need: food, coffee, ice cream, a gas station, and a pool (opening 2025).
There was ample parking for both our cars and ATV vehicles and loads of cabins to choose from. Book side by side cabins or pick your perfect stay for a weekend away.
There are tons of other cabin networks in the area, be sure to explore the option that fits best for you.
Resorts
Staying at a resort is perfect for those new to outdoor adventuring! Many resorts in the area include vehicle rentals in their lodging and even offer planned routes or trips during your visit. A majority of them have direct trail access to several trail systems.
Even if you are a seasoned rider, these resorts offer luxuries other locations don’t typically have. Be sure to research the area and find the best location for you and your group.
Airbnb/VRBO
From cottages to houses there are ample properties available in and on the trail systems. Find what fits the best for you and your crew. Listings range in price and size depending on your needs.
We recommend this option for those who are traveling in larger groups and want more privacy while visiting.
Campgrounds
Chief Logan State Park offers camping in the park from spring through the summer, weather permitting. If reserving a spot here, you must stay for at least two nights when camping. One added bonus is the campsites are located near the pool on this property!
All other campgrounds located in the area are privately owned. With this perk you are able to find a space that fits your camping or RV needs. There are several RV parks in this area as well to choose from.
Things to Do
Chief Logan State Park
This is one of the 36 state parks in West Virginia and is boasts hiking like a true mountaineer when adventuring through the park. There are over 18 miles of trails sprawled over two sides of a mountain.
In addition to hiking, we visited the museum located at the park. We found this to be extremely enjoyable and took you through the history of West Virginia and the numerous industries that called this state home.
Elk Tours
As West Virginia’s Division of Natural Resources continues its on-going efforts of reintroducing Elk to the state, visitors can sign up to try and spot this thriving herd. Tour leaders will guide visitors on a 2 to 3 mile walking tour to spot these incredible animals.
On our visit, we were able to spot up to 12 elks and heard many of them bugle as it was in the middle of the rut. Soon to come in 2025 will be a viewing tower in the Tomblin Wildlife Management Area. Visitors should be able to spot the herd as they graze their away along the mountains.
Hatfield Homeplace & Museum
Operated by the Hatfield Family themselves, learn the rich history that inspired the Hatfield-McCoy trail system name. The museum and gift shop includes crucial artifacts of the Hatfield homestead including the original well on the property.
We learned more about the family feud between the Hatfields and the McCoys which led to decades long retaliation among both sides. Even if you are not a history buff, you will find something unique within this stop. Don’t forget to check out the gift shop for some ice cream or a unique novelty item.
Airboat Tours
Tour the Appalachian Holler’s by water with Hatfield and McCoy Airboat Tours. Local resident Keith Gibson began offering these tours after being inspired by the Kevin Costner’s “Hatfields & McCoys” aired (we highly recommend watching this miniseries prior to your visit).
These tours are by reservation only which can be made by phone at the number listed on the website.
Four Seasons Country Store
This stop was highly recommended by the locals when asked what we’ve done so far during our visit. Fit out for each season, the Four Seasons Country Store offers locally grown fruits and vegetables and so much more. Browse through their plentiful rows of fresh foods, or pick up a freshly made tea or shake for the road.
Outside of the shop are seasonal decorations and plantings. During our visit, they were fit out for the fall season. Lined with corn stocks, pumpkins, and ghouls we loved the fall atmosphere along the Guyandotte River.
Hatfield-McCoy Moonshine Distillery
This activity serves as a three-in-one adventure; moonshine, food, and history! Located in Gilbert, WV the Hatfield-McCoy Moonshine Distillery offers small batches of historic moonshine. The original recipe itself has been handed down for generations for a bit of history with each sip.
Visitors can expect to tour the distillery, enjoy some handcrafted drinks, and purchase a meal while learning about history along the way. We did not get the opportunity to visit the distillery during our stop, but plan to when we return again!
Rainy Day Activities
Weather played a huge part during our trip in. We had visited days after remnants of a hurricane had passed through the region and dealt with buckets of rain. Even though we couldn’t spend all of our time outside, we found two places locally to pass the time.
We recommend checking out the Plaza Lanes Bowling in downtown Logan or finding a flick at the Cinema 8 movie theater. Both spots are perfect for friends and family trying to escape some unexpected weather conditions.
Where to Eat
The Colonial Room
We checked out the Colonial Room on our second day in town. At The Colonial Room nostalgia meets home cooking with a menu sure to bring anyone comfort. We visited at breakfast and dined on home cooked eggs, toast, biscuits and gravy, and homefries.
The coffee was hot and plentiful and the restaurant was decorated with unique signs that made us chuckle. They had a large offering of lunch and dinner specials and are conveniently located near the Rockhouse trail system in Man, WV.
The Broken Axle
We highly, highly recommend checking out The Broken Axle. This restaurant mixed with a bar had such an inviting and fun atmosphere. They offer both indoor and outdoor spaces fit with fire pits, cornhole, and plenty of ATV parking. The only thing that could make this spot better was the food, and boy did it.
The menu had wings to salads to power bowls and more! We loved our meals and wished we were hungrier to order more. If you do stop by, be sure to order the chicken wings with the homemade apple pie moonshine barbeque sauce.
The Magnolia House
This spot is a bit further out from Logan but is worth the drive there! We stopped by the recently opened The Magnolia House for their “Sunday Supper” and were not disappointed. They offer amish inspired home cooking enough to fill you up for the entire day!
We first started the meal with freshly fried mozzarella “sticks” cut as semi circles. These ooey gooey bites melted in our mouths. Trevor ordered the meatloaf with corn and mashed potatoes and used the fresh bread to wipe his plate clean. Riley ordered the cabbage roll with locally cut green beans and potatoes and had plenty to bring home afterwards.
The Fire Pit
Come hungry to The Fire Pit restaurant located in Man, WV where they offer combinations of your favorite meals you wouldn’t imagine. Trevor ordered a pizza sandwich that stacked the slices on one another for the perfect mash-up of a calzone, pepperoni pizza, and Italian hoagie.
Three Day Itinerary
This is how to spend 3 days in West Virginia’s Trails Heaven! This itinerary focuses on staying in Logan, WV. This mostly follows our initial visit to the area plus some extra activities we would recommend after spending time in the area!
Day One
- Arrive in Town
- Lunch: The Magnolia House in Danville, WV
- Obtain Permit for Vehicle
- These can be obtained at a multitude of businesses in the area. Purchase at lunch or at the visitor center.
- Check into Lodging of your choice
- Explore Downtown Logan, WV
- Dinner: Gino’s Pizza & Spaghetti House in Logan, WV
Day Two
- Breakfast: Colonial Room in Man, WV
- Trail Ride: System of Your Choice!
- Stop for Lunch (check out spots around trail systems)
- We recommend checking out the Hatfield-McCoy Moonshine Distillery in Gilbert, WV
- Trail Ride: Devil Anse Trail System
- Visit Hatfield Homeplace Museum and Hatfield Cemetery in Sarah Ann, WV
- Return to Lodging & Relax
- Dinner: Broken Axle & Red Bird Cafe for dessert in Lyburn, WV
Day Three
- Breakfast: Main Street Co. Coffee Shop
- Visit Chief Logan State Park
- Early Birds check out the Elk Tour at Chief Logan
- Explore hiking or ATV trails within the park
- Check out of Lodging of your choice
- Lunch: Parkway Drive-In in Logan, WV
- Travel Home
Plan on spending more time in Trails Heaven? Utilize this blog and visit West Virginia website to create your perfect adventure in Trails Heaven, West Virginia.
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Affiliate Disclosure
This post was sponsored by the West Virginia Department of Tourism. To learn more and start planning your trip visit www.wvtourism.com
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