ATV & Side-by-Side Safety, Rules and Trail Etiquette in Tennessee’s North Cumberland WMA

Exploring the North Cumberland Wildlife Management Area on an ATV, side-by-side, or other OHV is one of the best ways to experience the rugged beauty of East Tennessee. From scenic ridge lines and creek crossings to rocky climbs and miles of wooded trails, the adventure here keeps riders coming back year after year.

But with that adventure comes responsibility.

The North Cumberland trail system is shared by riders of all skill levels, families, hunters, outdoor enthusiasts, and local communities. Staying safe and respecting the trails, wildlife, and fellow riders helps ensure everyone has a wonderful experience while protecting the future of off-road riding in Tennessee.

Whether you’re visiting for your first ride or you’ve spent years exploring these mountains, following proper safety practices and trail etiquette makes the trails more enjoyable for everyone.

Here are some practical ATV and side-by-side trail safety tips, along with important atv TWRA trail safely, rules, and riding etiquette to help you make the most of your time in the Tennessee North Cumberland Wildlife Management Area.

TWRA Rules & Trail Safety Guidelines for ATV and Side-by-Side Riders in East Tennessee

1. Riders Must Stay on Designated Trails Stay on the trail today so the trail is still here tomorrow.

OHVs are only allowed on roads and trails marked open to vehicle traffic. Cutting through woods, riding off-trail, or creating bypasses is prohibited. Unauthorized trail widening and off-trail riding are some of the fastest ways to damage trails and lead to future closures.

ATV Friendly Routes For Travelling To Different Units

• Stinking Creek Road Area: Stinking Creek Rd (from Mountain Rd to county line), Rock Creek Rd, Hickory Creek Rd, Titus Hollow Rd, and Adam Hollow Rd.

• Royal Blue/Stoney Fork Area: Stoney Fork Rd (from 25W to Howard Baker Hwy), Tackett Loop, and Demory Road.

• Other Designated Roads: Duff Road, Davis Creek Road, Little White Oak Road, and Walden Mnt Road.

• Jellico Area: Portions of Pine Mountain Road, Douglas Lane, London Avenue, and Indian Mountain Road are authorized.

Legal Routes

2. TWRA Permits

Riders are responsible for carrying the proper permits before entering the trail system. You can find current permit information on our Permit page (link below).

• Permits can be purchased online or at any TN Walmart

• You have the option to buy a hunting license or High Impact License.

• If you buy an annual permit, it will extend one full year from the purchase date. ​​

• Permits are "per machine." Only one person in a buggy must carry a valid permit. That person can be a driver or passenger. Once you purchase a permit, either print or take a screenshot of the license to keep with you.

• Active military and those under 13 do not require a permit to ride.

• A Sportsman license will cover your riding permit. 

  
  

  

  
  

Permits

3. Helmets And Safety Gear

• Helmet Requirement: Minors (under 18) must wear a fastened DOT-approved helmet.

• Adult Supervision: Minors under 18 must be supervised by an adult.

• Safety Gear: Protective eyewear (goggles/glasses) is also required.

• Vehicle Compliance: Riders must obey all TWRA signage and stick to designated trails.

• Seat belts in SxS Vehicles-We have seen harnesses eliminate and/or minimize injuries on several occasions. Safety gear only works if you wear it.

4. Road and Community Etiquette: Ride Responsibly So Riders Stay Welcome

Spinning tires, doughnuts, and other reckless behaviors can lead to injury, negatively impacts the trail system, and disturb residents. Please respect the surrounding community! You are on vacation, but this is a residential area. Please respect the residents and communities while enjoying your time here. We want the riding community to be welcomed for years to come.

• Make sure you have a proper muffler and avoid revving your engines in populated areas.

• Turn stereos down when near residential neighborhoods and campgrounds.

• Avoid using bright light bars on public roads where they may affect oncoming traffic.

• Trail speed limit is 25 mph. Blind curves, dust, steep terrain, and mixed rider experience levels can make excessive speed especially dangerous on mountain trails.

5. Alcohol and Drugs Are Prohibited While Riding

TWRA compliance reminders specifically warn against drugs and alcohol while operating OHVs. Consuming or possessing alcohol while riding, hiking, or driving on WMA trails is illegal. Alcohol is permitted in the campground.

6. During Hunting Season, Blaze Orange Matters

TWRA requires fluorescent orange during certain hunting seasons while on the WMA. We will post the dates on our Facebook page prior to each hunting season. Safey Pink is now approved in addition to blaze orange.

7. Trail Etiquette

Yield on narrow trails The uphill rider usually has less room to maneuver. Slow down and communicate.

• Don’t roost people, camps, or parked machines. Nothing ruins a ride faster than eating a face full of Tennessee clay confetti

• Pack out trash. Even small stuff matters.

• Slow down near camps and trailheads Dust clouds + speeding machines + kids/pets = bad combo.

• Help stranded riders. The mountain version of roadside assistance is often just another rider with tools and a tow strap.

  
  

Stay Safe-Use Hand Signals When Approaching Other Riders

✋ Closed Fist = Last Rider

☝️ One Finger = One Rider Behind Me

✌️ Two Fingers = Two Riders Behind Me

🤟 Continue counting riders until the last rider signals a closed fist

8. Before You Hit the Trails

• Check fuel levels before long rides

• Carry water and snacks (extra clothes and fire starter if it’s cold)

• Bring a tow strap and basic tools

• Download trail maps before losing service

• Let someone know your planned route

• Watch weather conditions before entering remote areas.

Respect the Trails. Protect the Experience.

The North Cumberland trail system offers something special: miles of mountain riding, incredible scenery, and the freedom to explore East Tennessee’s backcountry. Protecting that experience takes all of us.

Ride responsibly, respect the trails and surrounding communities, and look out for fellow riders along the way. The choices riders make today help ensure these trails remain open, welcoming, and enjoyable for future generations of off-road enthusiasts.

Ride smart. Ride prepared. And most importantly, enjoy the mountains.

Plan Your Adventure