ATV Safety Tips for Kids: A Guide for Families Riding in Mercer County, WV

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Riding ATVs is a thrilling way to explore the outdoors, especially in Mercer County—but safety should always come first. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or introducing your kids to the trails for the first time, it is always important to be prepared for the trails. Before you hit the Hatfield-McCoy Trails, make sure young riders are equipped with the right gear, skills, and knowledge. Here are a few essential safety tips to help keep your family’s ATV adventure safe and fun.

Get the Right Gear

One of the most crucial rules is having the proper equipment before operating an ATV. Riders under the age of 18 should be wearing Department of Transportation (DOT)-compliant helmets, goggles and gloves. Always purchase DOT-approved protective gear because it goes through strict safety tests to comply with requirements. Long-sleeved shirts, long pants and over-the-ankle boots are also helpful to wear while riding.

1. Helmet

When buying youth ATV helmets, correct sizing is extremely important. If the helmet is too big, it will not properly protect your child’s head. If it’s too small, it will be painful to wear.
How to measure: Wrap a tape measure around your child’s head one inch above their eyebrows. This will give you the circumference of the widest part of their head. Compare this measurement to the helmet brand’s size chart.

2. Goggles

Goggles are imperative for ATV riding due to the all-terrain environment. Your child could run the risk of mud, dirt, stones, sticks or other debris flying into their eyes at high speed. Most popular brands offer youth sizes with adjustable straps.

3. Gloves

Gloves offer protection for the knuckles and aid in gripping the handlebars. Since long rides can cause sore hands for kids, gloves help prevent aches. Youth ATV gloves come in a range of sizes, styles and colors.

4. Chest Armor (Optional)

While not essential, armor is recommended since it can protect children from chest injuries. Most armors are adjustable with velcro or button waist straps.

5. Boots

The best boots for ATV riding are rugged, weatherproof and nearly indestructible. They should cover the ankles and offer strong grip.

6. Protective Clothing

Wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants and over-the-ankle boots helps protect against cuts, scrapes and sunburns. It also provides a layer between your child and the hot parts of the ATV.

Choosing the Right ATV for Your Child

When buying or renting an ATV for your child, understand the variations in size and safety features. A kid’s ATV is designed with their form and safety in mind.
Key fit guidelines include:

Brake reach
Leg length
Grip reach
Turning reach

Proper fit improves a child’s ability to drive and control the vehicle. If you’re not ready to buy, consider renting from a local outfitter to test options.

Where to Ride: Hatfield-McCoy Trails for Youth Riders

Practice builds confidence. The Hatfield-McCoy Trail system is the perfect place to help young riders build skills.

Beginner-Friendly Trails

Green trails: Best for beginners
Blue trails: Great for riders with some experience

The Pocahontas Trail System is one of the best for youth riders. Located in Coaldale, just outside Bramwell, this system has:

22% green trails
47% blue trails
Access to food, fuel and lodging in Bramwell and Montcalm

It also connects to the Pinnacle Creek, Warrior and Indian Ridge systems, forming the most continuous miles of trails east of the Mississippi.

Note: No one under age 6 is allowed on the trails. Riders under 16 must be supervised and within eyesight of a parent or guardian.

Visit the Hatfield-McCoy Trails website for a full list of rules and regulations.

Plan a Family ATV Trip to Mercer County

Safety should always be your top priority while out on the trails — and it’s important to teach young riders from the very beginning. After you’ve reviewed these guidelines, start planning your next family ATV trip to Mercer County!