NELSONVILLE — The Wayne National Forest 2013 trail season opened earlier this month and ends Dec. 15.

The Forest has approximately 134 miles of all-terrain vehicle and off-highway motorcycle trails, 88 miles of horse trails, and 209 miles of trails, available to mountain bikers to enjoy. Many of these trails are shared with other types of trail users.

All trail riders 16 years or older must purchase a Wayne National Forest trail permit to use on the trails. 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 vehicles with the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) and purchase a Wayne National Forest trail permit.

The cost of a Wayne National Forest seasonal trail permit is $45; 3-day permit is $24; and daily permit is $12. Permits may be purchased online, at any participating vendor locations, or at any of three forest administrative offices (Athens, Ironton, and Marietta). For online purchases or for a list of participating vendor locations, visit www.fs.fed.us/r9/wayne.

Only ATVs 50 inches wide or less and OHMs are permitted on the forest’s designated motorized trail system. For their safety, riders are required to wear an approved helmet and eye protection when riding.

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 forest’s website at www.fs.fed.us/r9/wayne.