Houston Valley OHV Trails
Just west of Dalton lies the largest Forest Service OHV system of trails in Georgia. These very popular motorized trails offer something for everyone, from easy to difficult, in a wooded setting. This 25 mile system is for dry riding, so it closes after significant rain events to allow the trails to dry and limit resource damage, sometimes for several days. Be sure to call the Conasauga Ranger District before driving to the area. On weekends and at night, call 706-695-6736 ext. 2 for closure recording.
At a Glance
Current Conditions: | There is no longer a fee tube at Houston Valley. This location uses Scan & Pay to accept on-site payment through the Recreation.gov mobile app. Download the app ahead of your visit to arrive ready to pay. Call before you haul! Houston Valley closes for several days after significant rainfall. Nights and weekends, call 706-695-6736 ext. 2 for status. |
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Reservations: | Reservations are not required. |
Rentals & Guides: | You must have your own equipment to ride the trails. The Conasauga Ranger District does not have equipment rentals. |
Fees: | 1-Day Permit: $5/operator/day OHV Annual Pass: $50/operator/year; this pass available at any Ranger District Office or at Houston Valley Orv Area Pass in Georgia - Recreation.gov. Annual Passes are valid for Houston Valley, Whissenhunt, Beasley Knob, Town Creek, Oakey Mountain, and Davenport OHV Trails. You must purchase and print the annual pass ahead of time and display in your tow vehicle. You may also pay daily in the parking lot with Scan & Pay if you have already downloaded the Recreation.gov App on your mobile device. |
Permit Info: | 1-Day Permit: $5 per operator per day. Install the Recreation.gov app on your mobile device before you arrive. Open the app to pay via Scan and Pay in the parking lot. OHV Annual Pass: $50 per operator annually, purchased from the Conasauga Ranger District. |
Open Season: | April - December 31 |
Restrictions: | Motorbikes and all-terrain vehicles (no pick-ups, rails or four-wheel drive vehicles allowed). Vehicles with more than 50" width are not allowed. Helmets are required for motorbikes by State law. Children under 16 must be accompanied by a licensed driver. It is prohibited to possess, consume, receive or transport alcohol in the Houston Valley parking lot, trail system and related facilities. |
Closest Towns: | The nearest town is approximately 10 miles east in Dalton, GA, where you will find numerous restaurants, grocery stores, gas stations and hotels. |
Restroom: | 1 Vault facility |
Passes: | OHV Annual Pass: $50/operator/year. Each operator must have their own annual pass. |
Information Center: | Please contact the Conasauga Ranger District, 706-695-6736 for more information. Office hours are Monday-Friday, 8-12 and 1-4:30 p.m. Nights and weekends, call and select 2 for up-to-date recreation information. |
General Information
Parking:Area has designated paved parking for 35 tow vehicles. ADA loading ramp.
General Notes:
These trails have been designed to provide a challenging, safe ride while protecting the environment. Please stay on designated trails. Unlicensed drivers can ride on the designated trails if accompanied by a licensed adult (unlicensed drivers must stay off public roads or open Forest Service roads).
Accessibility:
ADA loading ramp and restroom available at the trailhead.
Directions:
From I-75, take Exit 336 Dalton/Rocky Face. Go north on US Hwy 41 for approximately 3 miles to intersection with GA Hwy 201. Turn left on GA Hwy 201, go to second road on the right, Houston Valley Road. Turn right on Houston Valley Road and continue through two intersections. Go 1 mile past the second intersection and turn left on Capehart Road. Continue for 1 mile to dead end at parking lot for Houston Valley.
Activities
Campground Camping
Houston Valley Trailhead; limited--3 primitive campsites.
OHV Trail Riding
SUITABLE FOR - Motorbikes, all-terrain vehicles (No pick-ups or four-wheel drive vehicles allowed). Vehicles with more than 50"" width are not allowed. These trails have been designed to provide a challenging, safe ride while protecting the environment. Please stay on designated trails. Unlicensed drivers can ride on the designated trails if accompanied by a licensed adult (unlicensed drivers must stay off public roads or open Forest Service roads).
Staging Area | 22.7 miles |
Loading Ramp | ADA loading ramp |
Difficulty Level: | Difficult |
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Alerts & Warnings
- Toccoa River - Sandy Bottoms Day Use on Recreation.gov
- No Water at Cooper Creek Campground
- Tallulah River Road Construction to Begin
- Before riding your UTV, Educate Yourself!
- Houston Valley Now Scan & Pay
- Track Rock Petroglyphs
- Flatlands Road (FSR 256 and FSR 637) Closed
- Road Closures on the Chattooga River Ranger District
- Coleman River Rd (FSR #54) Closure
- CAUTION Waterfall Dangers
- CALL BEFORE YOU HAUL - ATV and OHV
- Panther Creek Trail Temporary Hiker Restrictions
- Don't Move Firewood!