Belcher Ridge Run

Total Miles29.9
Technical Rating
3Easy
Best TimeSpring, Summer, Fall
Trail Type60" Trail
Accessible By
Open Trail Map

Trail Overview

Belcher Ridge Run is a thrilling 30-mile journey designed for intermediate to advanced offroaders seeking a diverse mix of challenging terrain, scenic high-ridge vistas, and local Appalachian culture. This point-to-point route, which ranges in elevation from 1,458 to 2,845 feet, features over 4,000 feet of cumulative elevation gain and is best traveled from west to east. Navigating the route in this direction allows four-wheel-drive vehicles and SxSs to tackle the most demanding, technical obstacles first when driver energy is high. The initial third of the trail presents challenging rock crawls and technical rocky climbs that require high clearance and careful tire placement. As you progress, the trail transitions into a muddy middle section before smoothing out into gravel for the final leg, offering a highly satisfying progression of terrain. As the trail winds along scenic ridges and alongside pristine creeks, it shares portions of its corridor with the famous Hatfield-McCoy Trails system. While a permit is not required for these shared stretches, you will encounter 'No Entry' signs intended to keep Hatfield-McCoy riders on their designated system; offroaders on the Belcher Ridge Run should disregard these signs to remain on the correct route. After navigating the rugged mountain terrain and muddy stretches, the trail leads directly to the east side, making it incredibly convenient for post-ride stops. Both the Outlaw Bar and Grill and Riders Paradise are situated at the eastern terminus, providing the perfect spots to park your SxS or four-wheel-drive vehicle and enjoy some local food and drinks after a memorable day on the ridge.

Photos of Belcher Ridge Run

Difficulty

The first third of this trail is advanced, the middle part is muddy, and the last part is mainly gravel.

History

This long-standing route is a historic local favorite among offroad enthusiasts in the region.

Technical Rating

3

Status Reports

Add Status Report
Kenneth
Aug 11, 2026
Obstructed
Downed Tree
I would not say this is a green trail. This is more of a blue trail. Me and wife did it on 1000 2 ups and it was rough due to ruts. I will say this trail is probably a blast on SXS but can be rough on ATV. Pouring down rain also made this expose harder.
Dirt Poor
Jul 17, 2026
Obstructed
WashoutImpassable Water CrossingBroken Down Vehicle
This is NOT a Green Trail!!
Brannon Hartwell
Apr 20, 2026
Obstructed
The "owner" of part of the western end near the cemetery LJ Burke threaten to shoot me or anyone (over a Facebook post) caught on "their property " and claimed that they shot someone on there before. 🤔 also think we found their Meth camp.
saul alvarez
Dec 20, 2025
Open
Muddy/WetSnow/IceRough/Deteriorated
Jordan Simon
Dec 07, 2025
Permanently Closed
Officially Closed SignPosted Private PropertyLocked Gate
Once you get close to the mining area there’s a locked yellow gate with no way around and no trespassing signs posted. We went from the west side start of the trail and made our way east. Was awesome until we came to the locked gate. Found our way around it into pinnacle. Would still be a great point to closed gate and back.
brian daniel
Aug 16, 2025
Open
Muddy/WetRough/Deteriorated
Steve Oneill
Jun 26, 2025
Temporarily Closed
Closed Gate
Brad pape
Oct 18, 2024
Obstructed
Downed Tree
Trail was open. But a huge tree blocked it. Only had a small battery chainsaw that wouldnt do anything to the tree. Looked like there was a route around the tree, but very few could make it. Nearly vertical to get around it.
Mike York
Aug 30, 2024
2024 Polaris RZR Pro R
Permanently Closed
Locked Gate
Closed
Eric Brickman
Apr 25, 2024
Open
Muddy/WetRough/Deteriorated
Got to be the hardest trail I’ve done to date. Deep ruts, thick mud, tight openings and deep water crossings. Very technical. Spoke to some people that said they rode it last year and it was fine, and now it’s borderline impassable. Took us the whole day. Beware!
John Mercalde
Apr 11, 2024
Open
Muddy but trails open
jd carter
Mar 30, 2024
Permanently Closed
Locked Gate
Dennis Parrish
Mar 12, 2023
Open

Belcher Ridge Run Trail can be accessed by the following ride types:

  • Single Track
  • 50 Inch
  • 60 Inch

Belcher Ridge Run Map

The onX Offroad Difference

onX Offroad combines trail photos, descriptions, difficulty ratings, width restrictions, seasonality, and more in a user-friendly interface. Available on all devices, with offline access and full compatibility with CarPlay and Android Auto. Discover what you're missing today!

Open Trail Map