Rivers Edge Outdoors

Rivers Edge Outdoors is a private, members-only dirt bike riding club on about 275 acres beside the Pigg River in southern Virginia. The club describes roughly 20 miles of one-way, arrow-marked trails, mostly in the hare scramble style. It reports 8 to 9 miles of harder hare scramble trail and about 5 miles of easier trail for riders who are not racing. Hard enduro sections are marked separately. There is also an intermediate-level practice motocross track, a sand turns track with berms, and about 50 acres of open field where newer riders can get comfortable. The club says the trails suit all skill levels and hosts cross country races, night rides, poker runs, and hare scramble events.

Trail marking is worth knowing before you go. The club's website says orange arrows mark advanced trail, blue intermediate, and red the extreme hard enduro sections. Another listing describes the colors differently, so ask at sign-in and follow the arrows and any posted signs. Trails are one-way, and a "W" marks the wrong way.

Getting there

The club is at 300 Crossbow Drive, Chatham, VA 24531, on the Pittsylvania County side of the Pigg River. A rider listing gives directions from Rocky Mount: take State Route 40 east about 23 miles, turn left (north) at the second sign for Crossbow Drive, and enter at the fourth drive on the right. Every rider must sign in and sign the waiver before unloading.

Fees, permits, and rules

You need a membership to ride, and the club is bikes only. No ATVs, UTVs, or three wheelers are allowed. Current prices on the club's website are $250 for an individual annual membership, $300 for a family membership (same household, children under 20), and $180 for a long distance membership for riders with a commute of two hours or more. A guest who has never ridden there can buy a one-time $35 trial membership, and an existing member can bring guests. A third-party listing shows older, lower prices, so confirm before you go.

Helmet, eye protection, and motorcycle boots are required on the trails, and a chest protector, gloves, long sleeves, and riding pants are recommended. No two-up riding, no riding alone (buddy system), and no alcohol on the trails. Pit area and access roads have a 15 mph limit. Staff can stop you at any time, and you must obey them.

Camping is allowed in designated areas only, and you need to text the owner with your plans. There is primitive camping, and three RV sites with full hookups are available for a price you get by contacting the club. Canoeing and fishing on the river are also available; a Virginia fishing license is required.

When to ride

The club says the riding season runs year-round, seven days a week, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Trails can close for maintenance, flooding, or special events, so check the club's Facebook page for current conditions before making the drive. A third-party listing says the park is closed on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Call first, especially on race weekends.