New Castle OHV Area

The New Castle OHV Area is a 40-mile OHV trail system in the Craig County section of the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, managed by the Glenwood-Pedlar Ranger District and anchored near the small community of New Castle in the Roanoke Basin of the Virginia mountains. The system occupies Potts Mountain and Johns Creek Mountain at elevations ranging from 1,500 to 3,300 feet, a significant relief gradient that produces the varied terrain character distinctive of this section of the Virginia Appalachians. The low elevation benches run through mixed hardwood forest of oak, maple, and hickory on the moderate Potts Mountain slopes, while the upper routes climb into the open ridgeline terrain of Craig County with the long views across the surrounding mountains that emerge above treeline. One-way trail designations on most segments keep the 40 miles flowing efficiently and prevent the head-on congestion common on out-and-back systems. Trail ratings span beginner to difficult; the beginner sections make the system accessible to newer riders while the difficult ridgeline routes reward experienced operators who want sustained vertical challenge. Motorcycles and ATVs up to 50 inches wide are permitted; UTVs must also comply with the 50-inch width requirement, a meaningful restriction for full-size side-by-sides. A day-use OHV permit is required through Recreation.gov or at the trailhead self-pay station. Parking accommodates tow vehicles and trailers; a portable restroom is on site seasonally. Open year-round sunrise to sunset (540-291-2188).