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15 Reason to try ATV Riding in NC

Updated: Jan 11, 2023

ATV Riding in NC is a Blast, here are 15 reasons why.

North Carolina is a beautiful destination known for its rich arts and culture. It is also known around the world as a pioneer in aviation. I’m sure you don’t know, but the Wright brothers had their first flight here in New Carolina.


atv riding in nc tours on a dirt road trail

This southern state is known for its welcoming residents, mouthwatering cuisine, and beautiful scenery. Its stunning state parks are lined with enormous mountains that make the city a nice place to ride ATVs.



In terms of history, you will be pleased to know that Pepsi and Krispy Kreme started production in North Carolina, which is another reason the state is so well-known. But beyond these amazing facts that make North Carolina popular, the state is also a popular spot for SXS Rentals.


North Carolina, also known as the Tar Heel State, has the potential to be a fascinating vacation spot for people who enjoy exploring new places and trying new things like ATV riding.


ATV trails are plentiful in North Carolina due to the state's varied topography, which spans from the Smoky Mountains in the state's westernmost region to the coastal islands in the easternmost region.



Some of the most challenging and scenic ATV trails in North Carolina can be found on public lands, such as the forested mountains of Nantahala National Forest and the coastal region of Croatan National Forest.


Before we start showing you the best ATV riding trails in NC, let’s talk about why ATV riding is such a great sport in NC.


Top Reasons Why You Must Try Out ATV Riding in North Carolina

So, of all the cities in the world, how convenient did we pick New Carolina? The following are some great reasons you should go for ATV riding in NC.


Excellent Weather

"It's too chilly" is no longer an acceptable reason to not enjoy ATV riding or SXS Rentals in NC.

Although the climate of North Carolina varies by area, the temperature is relatively friendly all year round. The Atlantic Ocean influences the climate along the coast. The ocean wind cools the shoreline throughout the hot months.


As a result, the average summer temperature along the seaside is from 80 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Average winter temperatures at the coast are 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit.

Interestingly, most people that live year-round on the North Carolina coast, particularly on the islands that make up the Outer Banks and Crystal Coast, do not own winter clothing. So, if you go to ATV riding trails in that area, you wear shorts, t-shirts, and light jackets almost the whole year and have fun!


For most months, the weather in NC is pleasant, with clear skies and plenty of bright and sunny days to spend outside.





ATV Riding is Good for Your Health

Lifting weights, jogging, and doing crunches are excellent methods to exercise and achieve good health, but they may be pretty monotonous. Riding is an excellent method to exercise the heart, develop muscles, and release pent-up energy.


It may be hard to believe, but when you get on a quadbike, you exercise your muscles. In 2010, a doctor in Canada reported that off-road riders had excellent mental and physical function.


Given their more outstanding physical function, off-road ATV riders are less likely to suffer physical limits or health issues than others who do not.


He observed that ATV riders were between 0.5% and 7.9% less likely than the general population to suffer physical limits while walking one block. Off-road bikers were also between 3.7 and 9.1% less likely to call in sick to work.


In addition, participants in the study reported increased vitality levels, with 61% reporting higher energy levels than 34% of the general population. In addition, he determined that off-road cyclists were 22% less likely to have cardiovascular issues, including heart attacks, lung illness, and back discomfort.


These data have led him to conclude that regular off-road riders have more vitality, overall happiness, and quality of life than the general population. It is an effective and therapeutic method for eradicating anxiety and stress.





Get Inspired

When you lack inspiration, ATV riding in NC can come to your rescue. A pleasant journey may remove obstacles to creativity and free your mind of pessimism, leaving space for new perspectives.


There is this feeling of renewal and tranquility that comes with exploring nature's beauty outdoors. Plus, data suggests that being outdoors can boost your creativity levels. Researchers discovered that people who spend four days outdoors are more creative than others.

Numerous artists throughout history have been known to draw inspiration from nature. Johannes Brahms, for instance, a Romantic-era composer, was renowned for his long walks in nature, during which he would meditate on his compositions and seek musical inspiration for many of his masterworks.


What better way to enjoy your time outdoors than to enjoy ATV riding in NC?


Spending time with family and friends

ATV riding is among the few sports that almost all family members enjoy. Children can start riding ATVs in North Carolina at 8 years old. You can bring everyone along for your ATV riding in NC.


It is an excellent opportunity to spend quality time with family and friends. What better way to achieve this than spending time with family in a riding area?





What are the Best ATV Riding Trails In NC?

Now that you know why ATV riding is good, where can you enjoy this beneficial sport in North Carolina. Well, you don’t have to know all these ATV riding trails in NC to have a good time. You can find an excellent rental service in North Carolina, like Xtreme Off Road Adventures to set up things for you.


All you need to do is set up your booking with them and select the ATV you want. The company will handle everything else for you, including taking you to see the best trails for ATV riding in NC.


That said, the following are the best trails for ATV riding in NC.


The Off-Road ATV Trails of the Uwharrie

The Uwharrie National Forest is home to some of the most thrilling ATV riding trails in NC. It has a 20-mile trail accessible to all types of off-road vehicles (OHVs) and includes stream crossings, rough ruts, and hill climbs.


In addition, it has a path that is nine miles long, is moderate in difficulty, and goes alongside a river. This track is commonly referred to as the Badin Lake OHV.


Although camping is not permitted on the trails themselves, the surrounding forest does have some campsites. Some are more like basic camping places, while others offer modern conveniences.





The Appalachian Mountains ATV Trails

One of North Carolina's most thrilling ATV riding trails takes riders into the Smoky Mountains near Asheville. The trail spans 70 kilometers, passing through Boone and Asheville in North Carolina, as well as Abingdon and Damascus in Virginia.


When confronted with a vista as breathtaking as this one, one is compelled to take many breaks to take it all in and maybe take pictures. The good news is there are bathrooms at several points throughout the trail where you can take some time out.


You can also use the service of rentals like Xtreme Off Road Adventures to give you a great headstart for your trip. Their full package price includes refueling, refreshments, and meals as well.


OHV Trail on the Brown Mountain

The Pisgah National Forest near Morganton is home to all-terrain vehicle (ATV) trails. This trail for ATV riding in NC is popular and often reaches capacity on the weekends.


There are 34 miles of trails in this region that are suitable for ATVs, 4x4s, and dirt bikes. The routes range from simple to moderate in difficulty, except for their Black Diamond Trail, which is more complicated.


If you want to go along this path, you should be on the lookout for a petrol station located along Collettsville Road. You will need permits to access this ATV riding trail. You can purchase your pass at the general shop on the course for a small affordable fee.


Wayehutta OHV Trail System

A woodland serves as the backdrop for this ATV riding trail in North Carolina. Within the Nantahala National Forest near Franklin, you will find the Wayehutta Off-road ATV riding trail system.


There are bridge crossings and a secret waterfall tucked away throughout the network of loop paths that spans 28 miles and cuts through the verdant woodland. Specific courses are more suitable for novices, although the more challenging ones may get rough.


When you are done riding, you can go back to their pavilion and enjoy a picnic there once you've cleaned up. Everyone is welcome to use the trail network as long as the width of their vehicle does not exceed 62 inches.





Outback Off-Road Vehicle Park

Outback ATV Park may be found in Scotland County east of Laurinburg. There are pathways spanning 800 acres in this park that visitors may explore. In addition to it, there is a peewee track and a mud bog. Throughout the summer, there are several concerts and other activities held there.


Deep Creek ATV Park

Deep Creek Off-Highway Vehicle Park is located just to the north of Fayetteville. Over ten kilometers of sand paths and pits are available for riders to explore.


During their special events, there will be music as well as fireworks. They provide RC connections in addition to other types of camping.


ATV and Motocross Park at Cape Fear

You can find ATV riding in NC close to the shore to enjoy. Even though Cape Fear ATV/MX Park in Elizabethtown is nestled in the middle of the forest, you can reach Carolina Beach only one hour from the park.


Along the path through the forest, you will come across a few ponds, mud bogs, and sandpits. Additionally, there are occasional leaps interspersed throughout the journey.


The course features a motocross track and a drag strip, in case you'd rather keep things contained to a smaller space. You may relax by going fishing or swimming after a long day of off-roading. Both of these activities are fantastic ways to relieve stress and have fun.





Black Swamp Off-Highway Vehicle Area and Black Swamp OHV

Going on a ride in the Croatan National Forest in Havelock, you can get a good look at the pine and oak trees in the area.


There are eight miles of ATV routes in the Black Swamp OHV Area that are suitable for motorcycles, dirt bikes, ATVs, and UTVs that are no wider than fifty inches.


The topography consists mainly of flat country; although, during wet weather, you may come across mud bogs. Camping is permitted, and various shops are available in the immediate vicinity.


Busco Beach and its All-Terrain Vehicle Park

The ATV Park in Goldsboro, known as Busco Beach and ATV Park, comes very highly rated and has won many honors throughout its existence.


You may access all of their hard-packed trails, hill climbs, mud pits, and river crossings with their daily ticket. There are over 2000 acres in total. There is a lake in the neighborhood that is perfect for swimming and fishing, and the Neuse River runs along the area's boundary.





Carolina Backwoods All-Terrain Vehicle

If you love to get dirty and rough, then let us welcome you, specially to the Carolina Backwoods of Ash, North Carolina.


As you enjoy ATV riding in NC’s backwoods, you also get to explore the mountain in Taylorsville. The entire experience is second to none as it gives you a genuine immersion experience thanks to the inclusion of play pits, mud pits, and water crossings.


Be aware to access their trails, you have to participate in one of their tours or stay at one of their hotels overnight, and the only vehicles allowed on the property are rental cars. The duration of their trips ranges anywhere from an hour and a half to two hours.


Off-Grid Mountain Explorations

If you know where to go, you may enjoy ATV riding tracks in North Carolina on the mountains. If you are daring, you can even plan your trip when snow is on the ground.


The stunning scenery and well-maintained hiking routes atop Grandfather Mountain are well-known.


Even though it is winter, Off the Grid Mountain Adventures is open for business every day of the year. ATV, UTV, and snow trips are usually conducted in groups with a guide since the tracks might be difficult or tricky.


In addition, they have a go-kart racing circuit, a giant swing, and a zip line 3,000 feet long. Not only are you in for the offroad experience that was promised, but in addition to that, they offer great activities.





How To Prepare Yourself for ATV Riding in NC

So, now you know where the best ATV riding trails in NC. You also know that Xtreme Off-Road Adventures is the best place to get your ATV rentals in NC. However, before you get on ATVs and start riding, there are a few things you should know.


Safety is non-negotiable when riding ATVs. Every year, the US records an average of 700 ATV deaths. Sadly, most of the victims are below 16 years of age. Although the number of cases is relatively low in North Carolina, there is still room for lots of caution.


The following are some safety tips that might help you stay safe:

  • Ensure you obtain your certification in ATV safety before riding ATVs

  • ATV riders must wear protective gear that complies with DOT standards, including helmets, goggles, long sleeves, long trousers, gloves, and boots over the ankle.

  • Keep to the marked tracks and go at the appropriate pace for the terrain.

  • Never get behind the wheels of an ATV or any automobile while you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

  • Never ride on paved roads except when safely crossing them and when the law allows you to do so. ATVs are intended for use in terrains other than paved roads, and crossing onto a paved highway might cause accidents.

  • Never transport a passenger on an all-terrain vehicle meant for a single rider, and never transport more than one passenger on an ATV built expressly for two persons.

  • Ride an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) suitable for your age group.

  • Riders less than 16 years old should be supervised. Under North Carolina laws, the following rules apply to children under 16:

    • Children under the age of eight are not authorized to drive ATVs

    • Children under 13 years old are prohibited from using ATVs with engines bigger than 70 ccs.

    • Children under 16 are prohibited from using an ATV or UTV with a 90 cc or greater motor.

  • Children under 16 must always be accompanied by an adult while driving an ATV or UTV.

Final Thoughts

Now, you are armed with all the information you need to have a memorable ATV riding trip in NC. What’s left now is for you to pack your bags for an unforgettable experience. Whenever you decide to move, remember that Xtreme Off Road Adventures will be waiting to give you the best deals on ATV rentals wherever you are in North Carolina.






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