🍂 5 Must-Ride Off-Road Destinations to Explore This Fall Near Marietta, OH

When the leaves start to turn and the air gets crisp, there’s no better time to fire up your side by side and hit the trails. Fall riding in southeastern Ohio is unbeatable — cool temperatures, incredible views, and fewer crowds make it the perfect season to explore.

Whether you’re planning a weekend adventure or a quick day trip, here are five of our favorite off-road destinations within driving distance of Marietta, Ohio.

🏞️ 1. Wayne National Forest – Marietta Unit

Let’s start right in our own backyard. The Wayne National Forest offers over 300 miles of designated OHV trails, and the Marietta Unit is just minutes from downtown. It’s the perfect mix of convenience and adventure.

Trails like the Scenic River Trailhead wind through beautiful hardwood forests, offering overlooks of the Ohio River and plenty of fall color. You’ll find a variety of terrain — from wide gravel paths ideal for beginners to steep, rocky climbs that challenge even seasoned riders.

Trail Tip: Make sure you purchase a Wayne National Forest OHV permit before you go. Both annual and 3-day passes are available online or from local vendors. Bring your camera — the views along the ridges are especially stunning in late October.

🌲 2. Bear Creek Amphitheater & Trail System – Glouster, OH

Roughly an hour and a half from Marietta, the Bear Creek Amphitheater & Trail System near Burr Oak State Park is a hidden gem among local riders. The trails here feature a little bit of everything — rolling forest roads, mud pits, and scenic water crossings — making it perfect for both ATVs and side-by-sides.

The site also has camping and picnic areas, so you can make a full weekend out of it. Fall is an especially good time to visit, as the colors pop against the dark green pines that surround the amphitheater area.

Pro Tip: The trails here can get slick after rain, so make sure your tires are in good shape and your winch is ready to go. Our service team at Big Hometown Motorsports can help you gear up before you hit the mud.

🪵 3. Renegade Ridge – Bloomingdale, OH

If you prefer more action and less crowding, Renegade Ridge is one of Ohio’s best private off-road parks. Spanning over 1,200 acres, this park features a mix of open riding areas, wooded trails, creek crossings, and steep climbs that’ll test your skills (and your suspension).

Renegade Ridge is family-friendly too — they regularly host mud bogs, night rides, and charity events, bringing together riders from across the state.

Why It’s Worth the Drive: The atmosphere here is unbeatable. Whether you’re a first-timer or a veteran, you’ll find a welcoming community and some seriously fun trails.

🏕️ 4. Perry State Forest – New Lexington, OH

Located about two hours from Marietta, Perry State Forest is one of Ohio’s most scenic public riding areas. The trails wind through tall pines, ridgelines, and open clearings, offering a beautiful mix of fast sections and tight wooded paths.

The 16-mile ATV loop is a favorite among local riders — long enough for a satisfying afternoon ride, but short enough to squeeze into a day trip.

Good to Know: The forest occasionally closes for deer gun season in late November, so check the Ohio Department of Natural Resources site before you plan your ride.

If you’re heading that way, consider making a stop at Big Hometown Motorsports first — we can help you grab extra tie-downs, gloves, or trail accessories before the trip.

⛰️ 5. Hatfield-McCoy Trails – West Virginia

Just across the state line, the legendary Hatfield-McCoy Trail System offers some of the best off-roading in the entire country — and it’s only about two hours from Marietta.

With over 1,000 miles of interconnected trails, you can explore for days through rugged Appalachian terrain, small mining towns, and mountain overlooks that come alive in the fall. The Pocahontas, Indian Ridge, and Pinnacle Creek systems are the closest to Marietta and are ideal for both beginners and experienced riders.

Why Riders Love It: You can ride straight from the trail into town for food and fuel. It’s the ultimate weekend getaway for anyone serious about off-roading.

Trail Tip: Pack layers — weather in the mountains changes fast — and always keep an emergency kit or Garmin satellite communicator handy, especially if you’re exploring deeper sections of the trail.

🧰 Before You Hit the Trails

A great ride starts with a well-prepped machine. Before heading out, check these essentials:

✅ Tire pressure and tread
✅ Winch operation
✅ Lights and electrical connections
✅ Engine oil and coolant levels
✅ Storage space for tools, snacks, and safety gear

If you’re not sure your ride’s trail-ready, bring it by Big Hometown Motorsports in Marietta, OH. Our team can inspect your machine, help you find new accessories like light bars, bumpers, and windshields, and make sure you’re set for whatever terrain you take on.

Fall Riding Done Right

Whether you’re cruising through Wayne National Forest or tackling the Hatfield-McCoy trails, fall is the perfect time to make memories on your machine. The colors, the cool air, and the open trails are what riding’s all about.

So grab your gear, plan your route, and we’ll see you out there — or stop by Big Hometown Motorsports first to talk trails, gear up, and get your machine ready for the season.

Ride safe. Ride local. And enjoy every mile of fall in Marietta, Ohio. 🍁