NELSONVILLE — More than 300 miles of designated trails on the Wayne National Forest re-opens to the public today for the 2010 trail season. Last year, the Forest sold 16,000 trail permits to recreation enthusiasts.

The Wayne National Forest (WNF) has approximately 120 miles of all-terrain vehicle (ATV) and off-highway motorcycle (OHM) trails, 80 miles of horse trails, and 210 miles of trails available to mountain bikers to enjoy.

Many of these trails are shared with other types of trail users.

They offer different levels of challenge for riders to enjoy from “easy” to “most difficult”.

All trail riders 16 years or older must purchase a WNF trail permit to use the trails. Trail permits are not required for those under 16 years of age.

However, for motorized trail riders, youth under 16 years old must be accompanied by a licensed operator 18 years or older.

All motorized trail riders must have a valid state driver’s license, register their ATVs and OHMs at the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) and purchase a WNF trail permit.

The cost of a WNF annual trail permit is $45; 3-day permit is $24; and daily permit is $12. A new product that is being offered to trail riders this year is the Wayne’s Trail Gift Certificate.

The gift certificate can only be purchased and redeemed at any of three WNF administrative offices (Athens, Ironton, and Marietta).

Only ATVs fifty inches wide or less and OHMs are permitted on the Wayne’s designated motorized trail system. For their safety, riders are encouraged to wear the proper personal protective gear when riding.

Additionally, riders should stay on designated trails to help limit damage to the natural resources.

The 2010 trail season will remain open until Wednesday, Dec. 15. Trails are open year round for hikers.

For more information, contact the Wayne National Forest at 740-753-0101 (Athens), 740-373-9055 (Marietta), or 740-534-6500 (Ironton) or visit the Wayne’s web site at www.fs.fed.us/r9/wayne