Best Places to Ride Dirt Bikes & ATVs near Richmond, VA
If you’re looking for the best places to ride your dirt bike and ATV near Richmond, Virginia, you’ve come to the right spot! Richmond and its surrounding areas offer diverse terrain—from family-friendly dirt bike trails perfect for beginners to challenging off-road adventures designed for seasoned riders.
Whether you prefer public trails that immerse you in Virginia’s scenic beauty or private parks offering thrilling mud pits and motocross tracks, there’s something for everyone. Keep reading for a structured guide covering trail difficulties, costs, amenities, permits, and more, ensuring you’re ready for an unforgettable off-road experience near Richmond.
Places to Ride Within ~1 Hour of Richmond
Charles City Dirt Riders
If motocross is your passion, Charles City Dirt Riders is your paradise. This members-only club offers a variety of tracks suitable for beginners, intermediate riders, and seasoned pros. Perfect your jumps, turns, and speed at this local favorite just a short ride east of Richmond.
Location: Charles City, VADistance from Richmond: ~30 miles EastInfo: A members-only motocross club with six tracks (including a main track and two beginner tracks) plus ~6 miles of woods trails.Difficulty: Suitable for all dirt bike skill levels (from beginner tracks to advanced motocross layouts).Costs: Membership required (annual and day passes available)Permit: No public permits (closed to public without membership)Amenities: Open daily year-round except bad weather and during waterfowl season; no on-site rentals or food, but camping is allowed for membersUnique Features: Offers riding lessons and a variety of track types (motocross, flat track, endurocross) in one location. New Richmond Rough Riders riding area open near CCDR with lower membership fees
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Note: RICHMOND ROUGH RIDERSRRR has 20 miles of single-track trails with more miles coming. Located near the CCDR facility. Unlimited Single Rider Plan is $295, and the Family Rider Plan is only $395
Robert’s Track & Trails
image via website
Robert’s Track & Trails provides a welcoming, community-driven environment for riders craving tight, wooded ATV trails and a well-maintained motocross track. Ideal for intermediate riders looking for a mix of fun challenges and scenic trail loops.
Location: Saluda, VADistance from Richmond: ~60 Miles EastInfo: A private off-road park featuring ~12 miles of tight woods trails (ATV-width) and a 1.5-mile motocross track. Only dirt bikes allowed on track and quads and dirt bikes on trails.Difficulty: Trails are twisty (moderate skill) while the motocross track suits intermediate riders; overall a mix for riders with some experience.Costs: Requires annual membership and per rider fee per visit, guest passes also available that apply toward membershipPermit: No state permit needed (sign waiver/membership instead)Amenities: Open most weekends 9am–5pm (weather permitting) with on-site restrooms, shaded parking, picnic areas, and even camping allowed (primitive) for membersUnique: Maintained track (watered) and wooded trails provide a club-like atmosphere for regular riders.
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Shands Park
Looking for a laid-back, beginner-friendly ride close to Richmond? Shands Park is your go-to spot. With gentle trails winding through scenic woods and meadows, it’s perfect for families and novice riders just starting out.
Location: Carson, VADistance from Richmond: ~40 Miles SouthInfo: A small family-friendly trail spot with a few miles of easy ATV trails winding through meadows and woods.Difficulty: Beginner-oriented – gentle terrain, light elevation changes, and some mud puddles; perfect for kids or novice riders.Costs: Call for details (privately owned; no set entry fee published – likely a modest day fee).Permit: No permit required (riders must contact the owner in advance to schedule a visit)Amenities: Large staging/parking area available; limited facilities (no plan for on-site services). Occasionally hosts outdoor concerts during riding season.Unique: Very informal and “call before you haul” offers a relaxed, uncrowded riding experience for families and beginners close to Richmond.
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South Fork Motocross Park
Looking for a local motocross gem? Southfork Motocross Park offers an exciting track suited for riders of various skill levels, providing smooth jumps, well-maintained terrain, and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere just a short drive from Richmond.
Location: Disputanta, VADistance from Richmond: ~35 miles southeastInfo: South Fork MX is a premier motocross facility catering to riders of all skill levels. The 1 1/8-mile track features 17 jumps, four inside anthills, and two split lanes, designed in an amateur supermotocross style. Difficulty: Suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced riders.Costs: Open practice fees are typically charged per rider; it’s advisable to check their official website or contact them directly for the most current pricing. Permit: No special permits required; riders must sign a waiver before riding.Amenities: The park offers restrooms, hot showers, and a bike wash. Electric hookups are available; it’s recommended to call ahead for availability. Unique Features: The track is meticulously groomed before every practice day, ensuring optimal riding conditions. It’s known for being vet-friendly and offers an open track practice format.
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1–3 Hour Day Trips from Richmond
South Pedlar ATV Trail System
Adventure awaits in the George Washington National Forest at South Pedlar. Offering trails that range from easy cruising to advanced technical terrain, this system features picturesque mountain views and exciting trail loops that suit riders of all skill levels.
Location: Amherst County, VADistance from Richmond: ~120 Miles WestInfo: A 19-mile network of loop trails in the George Washington National Forest designed for recreational ATVs open early-April to late-November.Difficulty: Ranges from easy to advanced – some wide, inviting trails for novices and some narrow, twisting challenges for experienced ridersCosts: Special U.S. Forest Service permit required ($5/day, $12 for 3-day, or $30 annual), purchased in advance (no on-site sales)Permit: Yes – USFS OHV permit tag must be obtained from vendors or ranger stations.Amenities: Two trailheads (Terrapin & Rattlesnake) with parking; vault toilets at staging areas (trailers >16 ft not recommended). No food service, but Otter Creek Campground is nearby for camping (first-come sites by a creek).Unique: Scenic hardwood forest riding with panoramic views and spring mountain laurel blooms – a great mix of wooded trails and small hill climbs in a shaded canopy.
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Peters Mill Run & Taskers Gap OHV System
As Virginia’s largest OHV trail network, Peters Mill Run & Taskers Gap delivers a thrilling off-road experience. Navigate rocky trails, creek crossings, and challenging climbs, all while soaking up breathtaking views of the Shenandoah Valley.
Location: Shenandoah County, VADistance from Richmond: ~150 Miles NorthwestInfo: Virginia’s largest OHV trail system with ~36 miles of interconnected trails in the GW National Forest open from early-April to late-November.Difficulty: Wide range – Peters Mill Run is ~12 miles of moderately rocky old roadbed (easy to moderate), while Taskers Gap offers a dozen loop trails with steep, rocky, narrow sections for advanced riders.Costs: Permit required (USFS OHV permit $5/day, $12/3-day, $30/year, same pass as South Pedlar)Permit: Yes – must buy beforehand (local vendors, ranger office; no on-site kiosk)Amenities: Two main trailheads – Edinburg Gap (larger parking area, vault toilet) and Taskers Gap (smaller parking) Primitive camping is available at nearby Little Fort Campground (free, first-come, no hookups) with direct trail access.Unique: Offers a full day of rugged mountain riding – expect creek crossings, rock outcrops, and beautiful mountain vistas from the ridge trails. All OHVs (including dirt bikes, ATVs, UTVs <50″) are welcome, and even street-legal 4x4s can run Peters Mill.
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Big Boys Playground
Ready to get muddy? Big Boys Playground offers a diverse playground featuring extreme mud bogs, rugged trails, and a motocross track. Known for lively events and exciting off-road challenges, this park promises adrenaline-filled fun for advanced riders.
Location: Harrisonburg, VADistance from Richmond: ~130 NorthwestInfo: A 100-acre private off-road park with a bit of everything, popular among the 4×4 crowd.Difficulty: Mixed – features rugged Jeep trails and rock gardens for experts, deep mud pits (including the infamous “Hell Hole”), as well as a motocross track and a marked hare-scramble loop for dirt bikes. Trails range from moderate wooded paths to extreme mud challenges (not geared for pure beginners).Costs: Annual Membership. Daily fees depending on vehicle, etc.Permit: No state permit needed (private land; sign waiver on entry).Amenities: Open daily year-round (call ahead). Camping is allowed in designated areas (no hookups). Limited facilities – porta-johns on event days, and bring your own supplies.Unique: Known for its lively off-road events – monthly mud bogs and ATV drag races draw big crowds. The variety of obstacles (from a drag strip to “impossible” mud holes) offers a fun, challenging playground for ATVs, UTVs, and bikes alike.
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Moto Cove ATV Trail System
If you’re an experienced rider seeking rugged terrain and intense trails, Moto Cove is a must-visit. Conquer steep climbs, rocky terrain, and challenging loops, then unwind at their full-service campground to complete your epic adventure.
Location: Gore, VADistance from Richmond: ~160 Miles NorthInfo: A 38-mile trail park in the Appalachian foothills near Winchester, set on ~3,000 acresDifficulty: Predominantly difficult – four one-way loops with very rugged terrain (steep hill climbs, loose rocks, boulders, deep mud puddles, and trenches). There is a small 2-mile beginner loop, but the main trails are best for experienced riders.Costs: Per rider/per day fee(no permit needed, just pay entry); Camping fee minimum with access to beach, swimming, fishing, hiking, and picnic area included.Permit: None (private property – sign waiver and pay fee on entry).Amenities: Full-service campground on-site with spacious campsites, RV hookups, cabins, a swimming lake with beach, boat ramp, picnic shelters, and a small store. Trails open daily year-round (closed briefly in hunting season).Unique: One of the most challenging ATV trail systems in VA – marked and rated trails ensure you know what you’re getting into. Great for a weekend trip with both hardcore riding and camping in one spot.
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Red Oak Hollow ATV Trails
image via Facebook page
If you’re an experienced rider seeking rugged terrain and intense trails, Moto Cove is a must-visit. Conquer steep climbs, rocky terrain, and challenging loops, then unwind at their full-service campground to complete your epic adventure.
Location: Keeling, VADistance from Richmond: ~150 Miles SouthwestInfo: A 500-acre off-road park featuring ~20 miles of woods trails plus a large mud pit.Difficulty: Easy to intermediate with a “good mix” of terrain – mostly hard-pack dirt trails with some rugged muddy sections and shallow mud pits. Trails have twisty sections, small rolling hills, and even pass by old homestead ruins in the forest, making for interesting scenery.Costs: Per rider/day fee; primitive camping fee on-site for tent or RV).Permit: No permit needed (private park; sign waiver).Amenities: Gravel parking area, portable toilets available. Primitive camping is allowed (generators okay) for a small fee, but no hookups or food service on-site (bring supplies).Unique: A quieter backwoods riding spot with historic scenery – exploring trails around old farmstead ruins adds character. It’s a great place for groups or families looking to play in mild mud and enjoy a full day of trail riding.
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Pine Lane ATV Trails
Mud lovers rejoice—Pine Lane ATV Trails is your off-road playground. With trails catering to all skill levels, mud pits, and even snorkel ponds, this park guarantees endless fun and a true ATV enthusiast’s paradise.
Location: Keeling, VADistance from Richmond: ~150 Miles SouthwestInfo: A 200-acre off-road park with about 50 miles of trails suitable for all skill levels, plus plenty of mud fun.Difficulty: Varied – trails range from easy cruising to more technical sections; the park includes two beginner-friendly mud pits, two water “snorkel ponds” for ATVs, and obstacle courses. Terrain is mostly forested with some open areas – expect mud when wet and minimal steep hills.Costs: Per rider/Per day fee (cash only)Permit: No permit required (private property).Amenities: Open on weekends 9am–9pm (weekday rides by appointment). Primitive camping allowed on-site (“camp anywhere,” no extra charge), and there’s plenty of room for big trailers. A concession stand operates on weekends serving hot dogs, BBQ, drinks, etc.Unique: It’s an ATV playground with mud bogs and even swimming ponds to cool off in after riding– a perfect summer riding spot. The extensive trail loops ensure you can ride most of the day without repetition.
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Throttle Therapy
Throttle Therapy combines the excitement of dirt biking and ATV riding with the comfort of a private retreat. Rent the property, enjoy exclusive access to your own tracks and trails, and relax at the on-site lakehouse—a perfect weekend getaway.
Location: Orange, VADistance from Richmond: ~85 Miles NorthwestInfo: A 93-acre private riding retreat near Lake Anna catering to small groups of dirt bikers and ATV riders.Difficulty: Accommodates everyone – a loamy main MX track built for all skill levels, a separate kids’ track for beginners, plus several miles of wooded trails and even a mud pit. Great for beginner practice and intermediate riders alike (nothing extreme).Costs: By reservation only – this is essentially a vacation rental property with its own tracks. Per person, per night rates based on 15 person occupancy. 3 night minimum required. No day passes.Permit: No riding permit needed (rental agreement covers access).Amenities: Exceptional – a 5-bedroom, 2.5-bath lakehouse on-site that sleeps 15, complete with kitchen, laundry, Wi-Fi, and a 3-car garage for your machines. Guests renting the property get private use of the tracks/trails. Lake Anna is just 4 miles away for off-bike activities (restaurants, breweries, etc.)Unique: Offers a ride-and-stay experience – you can spend the day on your personal track/trails and the evening relaxing by the fireplace or grilling out. It’s like an off-road resort for a group of friends or a family event, making it well worth the trip for a weekend.
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North Carolina Motorsports Park
Just across the state line, North Carolina Motorsports Park is a sprawling off-road destination. Featuring multiple motocross tracks, ATV trails, and varying terrain, this park caters to beginners, intermediate riders, and seasoned experts looking for diverse riding challenges.
Location: Henderson, NCDistance from Richmond: ~90 miles southInfo: NCMP offers a variety of tracks and trails spread over a vast area, including a main race track approximately 1.75 miles long, featuring singles, doubles, whoops, sweepers, hairpins, step-ups, step-downs, and high-speed straights. Difficulty: Tracks cater to all skill levels, from pee-wee to advanced riders. Costs: Open practice fees are typically charged per rider; it’s advisable to check their official website or contact them directly for the most current pricing. Permit: No special permits required; riders must sign a waiver before riding.Amenities: The park is open seven days a week from 10 am to 5 pm, weather permitting. It offers multiple tracks and trails, and hosts several AMA motocross races throughout the year. Unique Features: The main track is known for its challenging and immensely rideable course, with mulch-amended North Carolina dirt providing excellent traction.
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Busco Beach
Busco Beach isn’t just a riding spot—it’s a weekend destination. Famous for its expansive sandy trails, mud pits, drag strips, and lively community events, Busco Beach is a haven for ATV and dirt bike enthusiasts seeking an adrenaline-fueled off-road adventure.
Location: Goldsboro, NCDistance from Richmond: ~150 miles southInfo: Busco Beach is a recreational riding facility offering a variety of terrain, including sand pits, wooded trails, and mud holes, catering to ATVs, dirt bikes, and other off-road vehicles. Difficulty: Suitable for all skill levels, with trails and areas designed for beginners to advanced riders.Costs: Admission fees are charged per person, with additional fees for camping and RV hookups. It’s recommended to check their official website for the most current pricing. Permit: No special permits required; riders must sign a waiver upon entry.Amenities: The park offers camping facilities with RV hookups, restrooms, showers, a concession stand, and hosts various events throughout the year. Distance from Richmond: Approximately 150 miles south, about a 2.5-hour drive.Unique Features: Busco Beach is known for its “mud heaven on earth,” offering a variety of mud pits and water crossings, making it a popular destination for mud enthusiasts.
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Budds Creek Motocross Park
Home of the legendary AMA Nationals, Budds Creek Motocross Park is a bucket-list destination for dirt bike riders. Whether you’re testing your skills on its world-class track or soaking in the energy of race-day events, Budds Creek delivers an unforgettable motocross experience.
Location: Mechanicsville, MDDistance from Richmond: ~100 miles northeastInfo: Budds Creek is a renowned motocross track featuring natural terrain with a mix of sand and clay, offering big, sweeping berms and a variety of jumps. Difficulty: The track is designed to challenge riders of all skill levels, with features that test strength and technique.Costs: Practice and event fees vary; it’s advisable to check their official website or contact them directly for the most current pricing. Permit: No special permits required; riders must sign a waiver before participating.Amenities: The facility offers potable water, flush toilets, showers, and hosts various events, including AMA Nationals and local races. Distance from Richmond: Approximately 100 miles northeast, about a 2-hour drive.Unique Features: The track’s layout within a steep valley provides numerous uphill and downhill sections, offering a dynamic and exciting riding experience.
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Worth the Longer Trip
Spearhead Trails Network
For the ultimate off-road adventure, head to Southwest Virginia’s renowned Spearhead Trails. With hundreds of miles of trails ranging from scenic cruises to rugged mountain climbs, Spearhead offers an unmatched, multi-day ATV and dirt bike experience worth every mile of travel.
Location: St. Paul, Coeburn, Haysi, and Grundy, VADistance from Richmond: ~300 Miles from RichmondInfo: A state-sponsored trail network spanning multiple counties in the heart of Appalachia.Difficulty: Something for everyone – over 400 miles of trails across six different systems, ranging from easy scenic routes to very challenging mountain climbs. Each trail system (e.g. Mountain View, Stone Mountain, Coal Canyon, etc.) offers a mix of green (beginner), blue (intermediate), and black (expert) trails.Costs: Spearhead permit required for each rider (3-day passes, Annual passes, and Annual youth passes available).Permit: Yes – the Spearhead Trail Permit can be purchased online or at local vendors; one permit covers all trail systems.Amenities: Trailheads are located in ATV-friendly towns like St. Paul, Haysi, and Pocahontas, which offer gas, food, lodging, and even ATV rentals. Many trails connect directly to these towns, making it easy to find campgrounds, cabins, and restaurants.Unique: This is Virginia’s crown jewel of ATV trails – hundreds of miles of interconnected trails through scenic mountains and reclaimed coal lands, with breathtaking vistas at overlooks. The scale allows multi-day exploration, and the region often hosts events and festivals for off-roaders. It’s a far drive from Richmond, but for an immersive ATV/dirt bike adventure, Spearhead is absolutely worth the trip.
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Tomahawk MX
Tomahawk MX boasts meticulously maintained tracks that attract riders from across the region. Offering multiple tracks tailored to different riding abilities and an engaging, family-friendly environment, this facility makes every mile traveled worth it.
Location: Hedgesville, WVDistance from Richmond: ~170 miles northwestInfo: Tomahawk MX is a premier motocross facility nestled in the scenic hills of Hedgesville, West Virginia. Established in 1999, the park offers a diverse range of tracks and trails suitable for riders of all skill levels. Difficulty: The facility caters to all skill levels with multiple tracks:
- Main Motocross Track: Features a 1.3-mile course with diverse terrain, including whoops, berms, and tabletops.
- Kids Track: Designed for beginners and younger riders, offering a safe environment to develop skills.
- Pit Bike Track: A dedicated area for pit bike enthusiasts.
- Woods Trails: Approximately 8 miles of trails through wooded areas for those seeking an off-road experience.
Costs: Day passes, Annual Memberships (w/ discounted daily fees) availablePermit: No special permits are required; however, all riders and visitors must sign a waiver upon entry. Amenities:
- Camping: Primitive camping is available at no additional charge.
- RV Hookups: Electric and water hookups are available for $30 per night during non-race weekends. Reservations can be made at the sign-in cabin upon arrival.
- Restrooms and Showers: Two shower houses equipped with hot water.
- Bike Wash: A quarter-operated pressure washing station is available for cleaning bikes.
- Concessions: Food services are available during events and weekends.
Operating Hours:
- Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Sunday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Unique Features:
- Track Rentals: Available on Mondays, Tuesdays, or Thursdays for groups of five or more riders.
- Events: Hosts various events, including the Northeast Area Qualifier on May 10–11, 2025.
- Safety Measures: On-site medical staff, flaggers, and safety lights to ensure rider safety.
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Hatfield-McCoy Trails
World-renowned for good reason, the Hatfield-McCoy Trails network offers hundreds of miles of trails through stunning Appalachian landscapes. With trails ranging from easy scenic routes to extreme terrain, this iconic riding spot delivers a true off-road adventure like no other.
Location: Southern WVDistance from Richmond: ~300+ miles westInfo: The Hatfield-McCoy Trails system is one of the most extensive off-road trail networks in the U.S., offering over 700 miles of trails across multiple counties in southern West Virginia.Difficulty: Trails are marked and rated for difficulty, ranging from easy (green) to most difficult (black), accommodating riders of all skill levels.Costs: A permit is required to access the trails. Permit: Yes, a Hatfield-McCoy Trails permit is mandatory and can be purchased online or at various local retailers.Amenities: The trail system offers numerous trailheads with parking, restrooms, and nearby accommodations, including campgrounds, cabins, and hotels. Many trailheads are located in ATV-friendly towns with dining and fuel options.Distance from Richmond: Approximately 300 miles west, around a 5-hour drive.Unique Features: The trails traverse diverse terrains, including wooded forests, open fields, and reclaimed mining areas, providing scenic views and a variety of riding experiences. The system also hosts events and festivals throughout the year.
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Morgan’s Corner Proving Grounds
Morgan’s Corner Proving Grounds is known for its rugged and thrilling ATV challenges and mud racing events. Perfect for riders who love tough terrain and spirited competition, this facility offers plenty of action-packed opportunities.
Location: Elizabeth City, NCDistance from Richmond: ~160 miles southeastInfo: Morgan’s Corner Proving Grounds is an off-road park known for its challenging terrain and mud racing events, attracting ATV and dirt bike enthusiasts.Difficulty: The park features a variety of trails and mud pits suitable for intermediate to advanced riders.Costs: Entry fees vary depending on events and activities. It’s recommended to check their official website or contact them directly for current pricing.Permit: No special permits required; riders must sign a waiver upon entry.Amenities: The facility offers parking areas, restrooms, and hosts various events, including mud bogs and drag races.Distance from Richmond: Approximately 160 miles southeast, about a 3-hour drive.Unique Features: Known for its mud racing events and challenging mud pits, it’s a popular destination for riders looking to test their skills in muddy conditions.
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Lake Sugar Tree Motorsports Park
Steeped in motocross history, Lake Sugar Tree Motorsports Park provides riders with professionally designed tracks suitable for a range of skills. Enjoy competitive events, riding clinics, or simply spend the day improving your skills at this beloved Virginia institution.
Location: Axton, VADistance from Richmond: ~170 miles southwestInfo: Lake Sugar Tree Motorsports Park is a historic motocross facility offering a variety of tracks and hosting numerous racing events throughout the year.Difficulty: The park caters to all skill levels with tracks designed for beginners, intermediate, and advanced riders.Costs: Practice and event fees vary; it’s advisable to check their official website or contact them directly for the most current pricing.Permit: No special permits required; riders must sign a waiver before participating.Amenities: The facility offers restrooms, concessions, and spectator areas. Camping options may be available during events.Distance from Richmond: Approximately 170 miles southwest, about a 3-hour drive.Unique Features: The park has a rich history in motocross and frequently hosts regional and national events, making it a notable destination for enthusiasts.
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Cowbranch MX
A favorite among regional motocross riders, Cowbranch MX offers smooth, well-groomed tracks and frequent events. With its welcoming community and rider-focused facilities, it’s a fantastic spot to spend a weekend honing your dirt bike skills.
Location: Macon, NCDistance from Richmond: ~100 miles southInfo: Cow Branch MX is a motocross track known for its well-maintained course and welcoming atmosphere, suitable for riders seeking to improve their skills.Difficulty: The track is designed to accommodate various skill levels, offering features that challenge both novice and experienced riders.Costs: Practice fees are typically charged per rider; it’s recommended to check their official website or contact them directly for current pricing.Permit: No special permits required; riders must sign a waiver before riding.Amenities: The facility offers parking, restrooms, and may have concessions during events.Distance from Richmond: Approximately 100 miles south, about a 2-hour drive.Unique Features: Known for its smooth track surface and friendly community, it’s a great spot for riders looking to practice and participate in local events.
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Final Thoughts
Each of these spots offers a distinct riding experience – from quick local jaunts to full-throttle weekend adventures. Always check the latest hours and regulations (“call before you haul”), and ride safe! Enjoy the trails.
