Off-road and on to Adventure

Northumberland County is on its way to fulfilling the vision of creating a world class off highway vehicle and recreation area.  Off-roading enthusiasts will have a new destination in Pennsylvania when the Anthracite Outdoor Adventure Area (AOAA) opens in Northumberland County in late fall 2013.  The recreation area will welcome all types of off-highway vehicles (OHVs) to trails that provide a range of experiences for riders of different skill levels. The site also will accommodate non-motorized recreation such as horseback riding, bicycling, hiking and rock climbing.

AOAA lands, which are owned by the county, run about 13 miles east-to-west and amount to about 6,500 acres. Much of the land encompasses old coal mines, some of which are being reclaimed, and the kinds of landforms that attract people with all-terrain vehicles, off-road vehicles, utility ATVs and off-highway motorcycles. Eventually, the site will include campgrounds, a vehicle washing station, picnic areas and other amenities that will make the adventure area a travel destination for off-roaders from Pennsylvania and beyond.

Photo by Jacy Marquette Photography

Pashek Associates created the master plan for the recreation area, working in conjunction with Northumberland County officials, citizens and Pennoni Associates. Northumberland County adopted the plan in 2012, in in January 2013 the Commissioners created a municipal authority to manage and operate the new recreation facility.

The AOAA so far has received these major grants to get the project under way:

• $1.9 million from the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources’ Community Conservation Partnership Program to plan and begin developing the project.
• $300,000 from the federal Appalachian Regional Commission to construct an access road.
• $30,000 from vehicle manufacturers for maps and signage and for trail development.
• $1.2 million from the state Department of Environmental Protection’s Bureau of Abandoned Mine Reclamation to remediate hazards.

The land development planning process is nearly complete, says Patrick Mack, Northumberland County’s planning director and vice chairman of the AOAA authority. Next up is to begin construction of the trailhead area, which will include a maintenance and security building with both a small retail counter and restrooms, parking, and a picnic area.

Photo by Jacy Marquette Photography

Several sponsored events have been scheduled at the AOAA for 2013, including:

• Valley Forge Trail Riders Hare Scramble, May 11-12, 2013
• 2^nd Annual Coal Mountain Jeep Jamboree, Aug. 1-3, 2013

As the AOAA comes on-line, it is expected to generate demand for the private sector to provide lodging, camping, dining and other support service businesses in the area.

We congratulate Northumberland County on taking the next steps to turn the AOAA vision into a reality!