Pocahontas State Park in Virginia offers a unique opportunity for mountain bikers to experience the trails under the cover of night. With a special agreement between the park and the Friends of Pocahontas State Park, riders can enjoy the thrill of night riding on select trails, but there are specific rules and requirements to follow. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the details of Pocahontas State Park night riding, so you can plan your next after-dark adventure.
The Rules and Requirements for Pocahontas State Park Night Riding
To ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors, Pocahontas State Park has established a set of rules and requirements for night mountain biking. Here’s what you need to know:
- Season: Night rides are permitted from September 5th to May 12th each year, excluding official closures and wet trail conditions.
- Permit: Riders must print, complete, and sign a night riding permit, which must be displayed on their vehicle dashboard. The permit is not provided by the park.
- Trails: Only the Swift Creek, Lakeview, Morgan, and fire roads north of Beach Road are allowed for night riding.
- Parking: Riders must park at designated lots, including the Loop Forest Trail parking lot, Horner Forest Trail parking lot, or Taylor Forest Trail parking lot. Parking fees apply.
- Lighting: A minimum of two separate light systems with at least 1500 lumens is required. A helmet-mounted light and a spare battery are recommended.
- Safety: Riders must carry a working mobile phone, ride in groups, and follow all park rules to ensure safety.
Trails and Hours for Pocahontas State Park Night Riding
As mentioned, the park has designated specific trails and hours for night mountain biking. Here’s a breakdown of the available trails and the permitted hours:
| Trail Name | Allowed for Night Riding |
|---|---|
| Swift Creek | Yes |
| Lakeview | Yes |
| Morgan | Yes |
| Fire roads north of Beach Road | Yes |
The park’s night riding hours are as follows:
- Return to your car by 9:00 pm EST
- Leave the park by 10:00 pm EST
Preparing for Your Pocahontas State Park Night Ride
Before embarking on your night riding adventure, there are a few additional considerations to keep in mind:
Trail Status
It’s important to check the daily status of the single-track trails before visiting, as they may close due to weather conditions. You can find this information on the park’s website or by contacting the park directly.
Overnight Accommodations
If you’re planning to stay overnight, Pocahontas State Park offers various overnight facilities, including cabins, campsites, and yurts, which can be reserved online or by calling 1-800-933-PARK.
Lighting and Safety
Ensure that your lighting setup meets the park’s requirements, with a minimum of two separate light systems totaling at least 1500 lumens. A helmet-mounted light and a spare battery are highly recommended to ensure your safety and visibility on the trails.
Conclusion
Pocahontas State Park’s night mountain biking program offers a unique and thrilling experience for riders who want to explore the trails under the cover of darkness. By following the park’s rules and requirements, you can safely enjoy the trails and take in the serene beauty of the park at night. Remember to plan ahead, check trail conditions, and prioritize safety to make the most of your Pocahontas State Park night riding adventure.
References:
- Friends of Pocahontas State Park. (2023). Night Mountain Biking. Retrieved from http://www.fopsp.org/night-mountain-biking.html
- Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. (2023). Mountain Biking at Pocahontas State Park. Retrieved from https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/po-mountain-biking
- Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. (2024). Pocahontas State Park. Retrieved from https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/pocahontas