Tucked into the rugged folds of the Cumberland Mountains of northeastern Tennessee lies one of the most remarkable off-road riding destinations in the eastern United States. Stretching across Morgan, Scott, Anderson, Campbell, and Claiborne Counties, the North Cumberland Wildlife Management Area encompasses nearly 205,000 acres of mountain wilderness — and for ATV and UTV enthusiasts, it’s practically paradise.
The largest contiguous parcel of public property in Tennessee outside the Cherokee National Forest, the North Cumberland WMA draws hunters, anglers, birdwatchers, and ATV riders alike, with clear mountain streams, rare birdlife, and majestic wild elk setting the stage for every adventure.
Miles of Trail for Every Skill Level
What sets North Cumberland apart from most riding destinations is the sheer variety of terrain on offer. The vast trail system ranges in difficulty, providing options for ATVs and side-by-sides of all kinds — from dirt bikes and trail bikes to Jeeps and full-size UTVs. Trails are clearly marked, with signs at trailheads and confidence markers placed at half-mile intervals indicating trail difficulty level and user types allowed.
There are currently 100 miles of managed trails on the Sundquist Unit, and ongoing TWRA expansion efforts are expected to bring total trail access on the WMA to approximately 300 miles. A connector trail through the Royal Blue Unit will eventually link the Sundquist and New River Units, creating an even more expansive riding network across the mountains.
Permits and Regulations
Riding at North Cumberland is open to the public, but it does require proper licensing. Riders need a hunting and fishing license with a WMA permit, a high-impact permit, or a sportsman’s license to legally operate on the WMA. Permits can be purchased online through Go Outdoors Tennessee. The area-wide speed limit is 25 mph, and a maximum noise limit of 86 dB applies to all motorized vehicles. During rifle season in the fall, it’s mandatory to wear safety orange, even if you’re just out riding the trails.
Wildlife, Views, and Connections
North Cumberland isn’t just about the riding — it’s about the experience of moving through wild, unspoiled country. Riders can encounter wildlife such as elk, deer, and rare birds as they wind through forested landscapes and open meadows. The WMA also features an elk viewing tower off of Highway 25W, offering a look at one of Tennessee’s most spectacular wildlife success stories.
For those wanting even more riding options, the WMA adjoins private property managed by Brimstone Recreation, allowing riders to extend their adventure beyond the public lands. The nearby Windrock Park offers another private trail system for those looking to make a full weekend of it.
Plan Your Trip
Camping on North Cumberland is open-style — if you can find a place to camp, you can do so with the proper permit. Private campgrounds are also available just outside the WMA boundaries. Whether you’re a seasoned trail veteran or loading up the side-by-side for the first time, North Cumberland WMA delivers a riding experience that is hard to match anywhere in the Southeast.
