By: CJ Rena Johnson

TNT in Chester SC: Exploding with Thrills

Overview of TNT Park

Whether it is the thrill of the jump, the speed of the chase, or the feel of mud up to your knees--TNT is the place to go!

TNT (Tracks N Trails) in Chester, SC has everything an ATV or dirt bike enthusiast could want for a weekend of thrills with all the frills. They have some of the very best off-road riding in the Southeast, including six MX tracks as well as five trail loops. There is a variety of each; so you can find the one that is just right for you.

They also have a BMX track for the bicycle enthusiasts in your family as well as a pond stocked with bass and bream for the fishers in your group.

They have several on-site amenities, which include very clean and well-maintained port-a-potties, including one that is handicapped accessible. They have a full-service concession stand with drinks, sandwiches, hot dogs, snacks, crackers, etc. They even have a bike wash so you can clean up after a full day of fun.
Primitive camping is also permitted. They ask that you arrive before 6 p.m. in order to register for camping as the gate will be closed shortly afterwards. There is no water or electrical hook-ups for camping, but fire rings and firewood are available. Night trail riding is not allowed. All riding must stop at 8 p.m. or at dark, whichever one comes first.

They also have a decent inventory of “likely to be broken” spare parts such as spark plugs, levers, and inner tubes. You can call ahead if you know you need something, and they will see if they have it. They also keep some first aid items on hand just in case. Speaking of first aid, qualified medical assistance is always available as well since Barbara (the owner) is trained in CPR and first aid as well as some of her staff. Both Barbara and one of her weekend staff members have had prior certification as an EMT and paramedic.
They also have different levels of on-road and off-road training available on site, including ASI (ATV Safety Institute) and MSF (Motorcycle Safety Foundation) classes. Advanced motocross training is also available by request.

I often write articles that are somehow based on Women and ATVing. This article is no different. How so? TNT is owned and operated by a woman, Barbara Parrish.

She has been in business for 15 years and is an avid ATVer herself. She is one of the friendliest and nicest women you could ever want to meet as long as you respect her and the rules for TNT. She will call you out in a heartbeat if you do not. However, her rules are basic, simple, and easy to follow if you are a responsible rider.

They are as follows:

• SAFETY GEAR is required. This includes a helmet, eye protection, above the ankle boots, long pants, shirt, and gloves. She also highly recommends elbow and knee guards, as well as chest protectors.
• You MUST have a well-maintained SILENCER or MUFFLER.
• Ride only on the DESIGNATED TRAILS and ride only in the DESIGNATED DIRECTION.
• LIMIT SPEED TO 5 MPH IN THE PITS. This includes anywhere other than on the tracks and trails.
• DO NOT CUT the track or ride around the jumps. There are sprinklers lined beside the track everywhere.

Out In Front Of Restaraunt at TNT.

TNT is a membership park and is open every day of the year except Christmas Day and Thanksgiving. However, you might want to call before you haul to check for any trail and/or track closures due to excessive weather.

Yearly Adult membership fee is $20. Children (13 and under) Membership fee is $10. One-day guest memberships are also available for $10 each. To renew your yearly membership, it is only $10 if you do it within 90 days of expiration. You must present old card at time of renewal.

Other fees include a daily riding fee of $15 for adult members and $10 daily riding fees for members 13 years of age and under. Camping fees are $15 per night for up to five riders. Additional riders/campers are $3 each.

If you have any questions, you can call TNT on the track phone at 803-385-5048. You can also look them up online at http://www.tntmotorsportsinc.com. Always call before you haul to double check.

Are you ready to head on out to TNT for your own explosive thrills? You can Map Quest or Google the address--1502 Brown Rd, Chester, SC 29706.

For your convenience, here are the directions from Interstate 77 in SC. Take Exit 55 and go north on Highway 97 towards Chester. Go 3 1/2 miles and turn right onto Brown Road. Go 1 1/2 miles and look for the sign on the right. Turn right into the park and drive until you come to the sign-in area.

So come on out and check it out for yourself. Their mission statement is “We do our very best to provide you with a nice, clean, safe facility to enjoy your sport. We want you to go home in the same condition as when you got here. Well, maybe just with a big smile and a few sore muscles!”

On a last note from Barbara herself, “Your competition trains here, why shouldn’t you?”

I, personally, go there as often as I can. Look for me on your next trip down there.

As always: Choose now to have an awesome day.