Hatfield-McCoy Devil Anse Trail System
Coal country's premier technical challenge
The Devil Anse trail system cuts through the heart of Hatfield-McCoy country, where family feuds once ruled these rugged ridges and coal still drives the economy. Named after Devil Anse Hatfield himself, this network delivers 100+ miles of purpose-built ORV trails through strip-mined moonscape, deep hollers, and steep climbs that’ll test suspension travel. The signature obstacle is Rockhouse Creek crossing, where drivers navigate house-sized boulders and flowing water beneath towering sandstone cliffs.
Expert-level technical riding requires proper ORV permits and full roll protection — this isn’t weekend warrior territory. Spring and fall offer ideal conditions, though summer heat in the exposed strip mine areas can be brutal. Base camp at the Gilbert trailhead for fuel, food, and trail passes. The reward is authentic coal country culture, challenging terrain that builds skills, and some of the most diverse ORV riding on the East Coast.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Difficult |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Rock |
| Features | Historic, Technical, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 112 mi / 180.2 km |
| Duration | 2-3 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 2800 ft |
| Best season | April-November |
| Minimum vehicle | Modified 4WD with protection |
| Nearest town | Gilbert, West Virginia |
| Land manager | Hatfield-McCoy Regional Recreation Authority |
| Permit required | Yes |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | No |
| Official sources | trailsheaven.com |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock 4Runner or Jeep JK handle Devil Anse, or do I need lockers?
Stock rigs will struggle — the rock sections and steep technical climbs genuinely demand skid plates, rock sliders, and at minimum a rear locker. A lift helps but isn't the whole story; underbody protection is non-negotiable on this trail.
Is Devil Anse accessible in winter or early spring?
The trail system is officially open April through November. Winter access is not permitted, and early spring can bring soft ground and high water crossings that make even April sketchy — check conditions with the Hatfield-McCoy Authority before heading out.
Do I need a permit to ride Devil Anse, and how much does it cost?
Yes, a trail permit is required through the Hatfield-McCoy Regional Recreation Authority — purchase it at trailsheaven.com before you go. Day and multi-day passes are available; rangers do check, so don't skip it.
What's the hardest section on Devil Anse and what should I actually expect?
The rocky technical climbs are where rigs get sorted out — loose shale, off-camber shelf roads, and ledge drops that punish anything with marginal clearance or no skids. With 112 miles over 2-3 days, you're not just doing one hard move; sustained technical driving will wear on both driver and machine.
What's the cell service situation, and is there anywhere to resupply near the trail?
Cell service is spotty throughout — don't count on navigation or emergency calls working reliably once you're deep in the system. Gilbert, WV is your nearest town for fuel and basic supplies, so top off and stock up before you hit the trailhead.
Trail track
No GPX track for this trail yet. If you've driven it and have a track, contribute below.
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