Published: July 02, 2008 10:52 pm         

New ATV trail system to open Independence Day

Thrill seekers looking for some fun prior to the night’s fireworks displays on Independence Day need to look no farther than the new ATV trail system off Tams Mountain near Sophia.

Burning Rock Off Road Park will hold a soft opening of its new 8,000-acre trail system, which was carved out of a once-thriving coal mining area.

The new ATV park will open at 10 a.m., according to Raleigh County Commission President Pat Reed.

“We are very excited about the opening of this new trail system,” Reed said. “It’s a great new addition to the area and should provide a tremendous economic boost for local businesses.”

Burning Rock will offer 80 miles of double track routes and 20 miles for trail bikes alone, Reed said.

There are several types of trails to choose from depending on a riders skill level.

“We have beginner trails to advanced trails,” Reed said.

ATV and trail bike are also available to rent, along with safety equipment.

“We are also going to have a general store open Friday,” Reed said. “It will be selling food, drinks, snacks and souvenirs.”

Reed said future plans include cabin rentals and a gasoline station so riders can refuel without leaving the park.

A yearly permit costs $25 or riders can pay a trail fee to ride all day.

To find Burning Rock trail, make a left off of the Coalfields Expressway to McKinney Mountain Road; go about one-half mile down the mountain and watch for the turnoff sign on left.

— E-mail:fpace@ register-herald.com