Visit Nelson County: ATV Trails

ATV Trails

Closed seasonally from December 1 through March 31.

The South Pedlar ATV Trail System (Terrapin and Rattlesnake Trails) is a looping network of approximately 19 miles of trails designed for the recreational all-terrain vehicle rider. The trail system is open to four-wheel ATVs, motorbikes, and mountain bikes. Riders will find challenges in the narrow and twisting trails, while others will find trails that are wide and inviting.

Visitors to the area enjoy panoramic vistas, groves of large trees, spectacular mountain laurel blooms in season, and relief from the hot summer sun under the shady forest canopy.

HOW TO GET THERE
Signs for the Terrapin and Rattlesnake Trailhead Parking Lots are posted along State Route 130. Traveling west from Lynchburg, follow State Route 130 toward the Blue Ridge Parkway. Just after crossing through the Blue Ridge Parkway underpass, ahead to the right is Forest Development Road (FDR) 319. Turn right onto FDR 319 to the Terrapin Trailhead parking lot. The Rattlesnake Trailhead parking lot is another 3/4 miles west on State Route 130, then right onto FDR 564.

Traveling from Buena Vista, follow U.S. Highway 501 south. Continue on U.S. 501 to the intersection with State Route 130 at the Snowden power plant on the James River. Continue on State Route 130 another mile to the junction of FDR 564 on your left. Turn left onto FDR 564 to the Rattlesnake Trailhead parking lot. Another 3/4 miles east on State Route 130, turn left onto FDR 319 to the Terrapin Trailhead parking lot.

Traveling from I-81, take exit 175 or 180 to Natural Bridge. Once at Natural Bridge turn onto VA 130. Follow 130 through Natural Bridge Station and Glasgow. When the road forks bear right onto VA 130/501. Continue on 130/501 for 8 miles and turn left onto FDR 564 to the Rattlesnake trailhead parking lot.

FEES
Parking at the trailhead is $5 per vehicle per day. Self-service pay stations are available at each trailhead parking lot. These collections will assist the Forest Service in managing and maintaining the trail system.