The best cycling routes in Wills Mountain State Park

The region around Wills Mountain State Park offers touring cycling routes characterized by rugged terrain, prominent rocky cliffs, and the scenic Potomac River valley. While the park itself is largely undeveloped for cycling, the immediate area, particularly near Cumberland, serves as a hub for long-distance cycling, connecting to the Great Allegheny Passage and the C&O Canal Towpath. You'll find routes that traverse varied ecosystems and historical points of interest.

There are 8 touring cycling routes available in the Wills Mountain State Park area, catering to various skill levels. These include 1 easy route, 4 moderate routes, and 3 difficult routes.

Yes, there is one easy touring cycling route available. For a moderate option that offers scenic views and is popular, consider the WM Scenic RR Double Bridge loop from Cumberland, which is about 9.9 miles long and takes around 1 hour 15 minutes to complete.

For experienced touring cyclists looking for a challenge, routes like the Brush Tunnel – Frostburg Trailhead loop from Corriganville offer a difficult 27.7-mile path, including the historic Brush Tunnel and connections to the Great Allegheny Passage. Another difficult option is the Big Savage Tunnel – Mason-Dixon Line Monument loop from Cumberland, spanning over 47 miles.

The region's rugged terrain and varied ecosystems make spring and fall ideal for touring cycling, offering comfortable temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can also be enjoyable, but be prepared for warmer weather. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

Yes, several routes are designed as loops. For example, the Mount Savage - Great Allegheny Passage Loop is a 22.7-mile circular trail that leads through varied landscapes. The WM Scenic RR Double Bridge loop from Cumberland is another popular loop option.

The diverse ecosystems around Wills Mountain State Park are home to a variety of wildlife. You might spot black bears, bobcats, and bald eagles. The area is also known for being a natural rock nesting site for peregrine falcons and hosts rare plants like racemed milkwort and wild bleeding heart.

While Wills Mountain State Park itself currently lacks developed parking areas, the nearby city of Cumberland serves as a primary hub for accessing the region's cycling routes, including the Great Allegheny Passage and C&O Canal Towpath. You will find parking facilities in and around Cumberland that provide convenient access to these trails.

The routes in the Wills Mountain State Park area are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 15 reviews. Cyclists often praise the scenic views, the connection to iconic long-distance trails like the Great Allegheny Passage, and the opportunity to explore historical sites and natural beauty.

Absolutely. The region is a renowned hub for long-distance touring cycling. Cumberland is a crucial junction for the 150-mile Great Allegheny Passage (GAP), which connects to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and the 184.5-mile C&O Canal Towpath, leading to Washington, D.C. These trails offer extensive multi-day cycling adventures.

The area has a rich historical past. Routes often pass by or near sites like the historic Brush Tunnel, and the region itself has historical significance, including the former Wills Mountain Inn. The C&O Canal Towpath, accessible from Cumberland, features restored lockhouses and other historical points of interest along the Potomac River.

For more detailed information about the Great Allegheny Passage and the C&O Canal Towpath, including tour packages, shuttle services, and amenities, you can visit the Visit Cumberland website, which provides resources for biking in the area.