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What to Bring for Your First Trip to AOAA

Heading out to AOAA for the first time? You're in for an incredible day on Pennsylvania's largest off-road trail system — 8,000 acres of trails for ATVs, UTVs, dirt bikes, and full-size vehicles. This guide walks you through exactly what to bring, what to wear, and what to leave at home so you can hit the trails with confidence.

Required Items (Don't Leave Home Without These)

Every rider needs the following to check in at the Pro Shop:

  • Completed liability waiver — sign it online before arriving to save time at the trailhead. Waivers are valid through December 31st of the calendar year.

  • Photo ID — required for all riders. Riders under 18 must also have a parent or legal guardian present.

  • AOAA day pass, multi-day pass, or annual pass — purchase online at FareHarbor or at the Welcome Center.

  • DOT-certified helmet — required for all ATV, UTV, and dirt bike riders. Bicycle helmets, action sports helmets, and novelty helmets are NOT permitted.

  • Protective eyewear — goggles, face shield, or shatterproof glasses.

Required Clothing and Footwear

  • Long-sleeved or short-sleeved shirt (no tank tops or going shirtless)

 

  • Closed-toe protective footwear — boots are strongly recommended

 

  • No open-toed shoes or sandals under any circumstances

Highly Recommended Gear

Not required, but you'll wish you brought them:

  • Riding gloves — protect your hands and improve grip

  • Long pants — protect against branches, debris, and weather

  • Chest protector — especially for dirt bike riders

  • Layered clothing — Pennsylvania weather can change quickly

What NOT to Bring

These will get you turned around at the gate:

  • No alcoholic beverages — strictly prohibited on AOAA property

  • No illegal drugs — all vehicles entering are subject to inspection

  • No firearms or weapons — except during legal hunting seasons

  • No bicycle, novelty, or action sports helmets — DOT certified only

  • No bump seats or aftermarket cargo seats for passengers — UTVs limited to manufacturer-installed seatbelts

  • No chainsaws 

Important Reminders Before Your First Ride

A few things first-timers often miss:

  • Parking lot and access road max speed is 5 MPH — no horseplay or stunts

  • Helmets must be worn anytime wheels are moving — including loading, unloading, and the parking lot

  • All passengers must be on a machine manufactured for two riders — single-rider machines are single-rider only

  • All trails are two-way — stay to the right and expect oncoming traffic

  • Camping is not permitted on AOAA property — stay at Trailhead Campground right next door (570-495-4453)

Emergency Contacts

Save these in your phone before you ride:

  • Emergencies: 911

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