All of these roads are open to hikers, bikers, and all-terrain vehicles. Some roads make better rides than others — check at the ranger's office. Road standards range from paved highways to non-surfaced roads designed for high clearance vehicles. Management includes yearlong, seasonal, and emergency closures. Maintenance of the transportation system is accomplished by ranger district crews and contracts/agreements with private businesses and other agencies.

In addition, the forest highway system includes state roads necessary in the use of National Forest System products such as hauling timber or travelling to recreation attractions. This system is agreed to by the Forest Service, the state, and the Federal Highway Administration, and currently consists of over 1,200 miles in Virginia and West Virginia.

Most of the forest's developed recreation facilities are easy to reach with standard two-wheel drive vehicles. Many are accessible from nearby paved highways, but some require journeys on"raveled roads. These roads are usually in good condition, but in some cases, extensive use can cause a rough, washboard surface. Reducing your speed will allow a more comfortable ride as well as a better opportunity to view and enjoy the scenery and wildlife.

A number of forest roads are rough and unsurfaced and are only suitable for high clearance or four-wheel drive vehicles. Some roads are closed by gates either year-round or seasonally to protect wildlife or other resources. Temporary roads built for logging or other projects are usually closed when the project ends. These roads are usually not designed to support continuous use and are generally gated or blocked.