Due to the risks associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, please use appropriate precautions when traveling in the PA Wilds and refer to the PA Department of Health for updates.
The Allegheny National Forest will open the Rocky Gap and Marienville all-terrain vehicle and off-highway motorcycle (ATV/OHM) trails at 8 AM on Saturday, February 20, 2021. While Timberline Trail is also open, the Willow Creek and Penoke Trails will remain closed.
Permits are required to ride the Forest’s ATV/OHM trails. Permits are valid through the end of the calendar year. Information on how to secure a permit can be found on the ANF website.
According to Ranger Rob Fallon, trails will remain open until conditions no longer support winter use. This includes sustained warming temperatures, evidence of damage to the trail surface, and unsafe icing conditions. “We are hopeful that weather conditions will allow us to keep trails open for winter riding,” noted Fallon. “Forest Service staff will monitor ATV/OHM trail conditions including evidence of trail damage and unsafe icing conditions,” he said.
Winter trail conditions are more challenging, and users are encouraged to consider their skill level when evaluating whether to use any trail. Trails have snow cover in excess of a foot in segments; however, they are not groomed. Other segments may be icy.
The Forest will update information on the public website and social media when ATV/OHM trail access changes. Please check access and trail conditions prior to use. Restrooms remain closed at the trailheads.
Visitors should practice outdoor ethics such as Leave No Trace principles and Tread Lightly. Users may encounter vehicles, groomers, snowshoers, skiers, or hikers at any time on these multiple use trails.
For more information about recreational activities on the ANF, visit the ANF website.
Author: Guest Contributor
The Pennsylvania Wilds is home to more than 2 million acres of public land, 50 state game lands, 29 state parks, 8 state forests, 2 National Wild & Scenic Rivers, abundant wildlife, hundreds of miles of land and water trails, some of the darkest skies in the country, and the largest elk herd in the northeast.
The PA Wilds team is grateful to share the many stories of this region through the words and images of our talented guest contributors.