The best cycling routes in West Virginia

The Fayette Station Road Scenic Drive offers a unique touring cycling experience, plunging you into the heart of the New River Gorge on a historic paved road. You'll navigate steep descents and ascents through dense hardwood forests, with the New River always in view. The route provides an incredible perspective of the iconic New River Gorge Bridge, which you'll pass under multiple times, and crosses the historic Tunney Hunsaker Bridge at the bottom of the gorge, offering a true journey back in time.

This moderate 8.4-mile (13.6 km) route involves a substantial 978 feet (298 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 1 hour to complete. Given the challenging terrain with numerous hairpin curves, cyclists should ensure their brakes are in excellent condition and be prepared for strenuous climbs. The road is one-way, which enhances safety, allowing you to focus on the ride and the stunning scenery without worrying about oncoming traffic.

Before the modern bridge, this winding road was the only way to cross the gorge, making it a significant piece of local history. Along the way, you'll encounter remnants of old coal and railroad towns, with wayside exhibits providing insights into the area's past. This route is a must-do for cyclists interested in combining a physically rewarding ride with a rich historical and scenic exploration of the New River Gorge.

The Kanawha Boulevard Trail is a fantastic option for a relaxed touring cycling experience, offering continuous riverfront views and a flat, paved surface. You'll glide along the north bank of the Kanawha River, passing through downtown Charleston and enjoying glimpses of the city's history. It's an easy 10.7-mile (17.3 km) ride with only 92 feet (28 metres) of elevation gain, making it perfect for a quick 58-minute outing.

For planning your visit, you'll find convenient parking at the Patrick Street Bridge end or near Magic Island Park, which even has a bike repair station. The trail is very accessible and suitable for all skill levels, including beginners and families. It's a great route for sightseeing and can be enjoyed at any time of day.

What makes this one of the best cycling trails in Charleston WV is its direct connection to key city attractions. You'll cycle past the iconic gold-domed West Virginia State Capitol Complex and the Governor's Mansion, as well as Haddad Riverfront Park. The trail is also part of the broader Kanawha Trestle Walk and Bikeway system, hinting at future connections and making it a notable part of the city's bikeable infrastructure.

The North Bend Rail Trail offers a distinctive touring cycling experience through the scenic hills and hollows of West Virginia. As you pedal, you'll pass through long stretches of shaded woods, impressive rock cuts, and views of farmland, crossing 36 bridges and venturing into 10 historic tunnels, including the lengthy and dark Central Station Tunnel. The trail's surface of crushed stone and coarse gravel, sometimes with larger stones, makes for a challenging ride, best suited for cyclists with wider tires who enjoy a rugged adventure.

Planning your ride requires a good headlight for the tunnels, some of which are very dark. Be prepared for varying trail conditions, as some sections, particularly in the western parts or after rain, can be muddy or have large, loose gravel. Free cold camping is available along the trail, and North Bend State Park, which the trail passes, offers additional facilities. Bike fix-it stations are strategically placed, and small towns along the route provide opportunities for refreshments.

This difficult 53.4-mile (85.9 km) touring cycling route, with 2252 feet (686 metres) of elevation gain, is a significant part of the 5,500-mile American Discovery Trail. It follows a former Baltimore & Ohio Railroad line, built between 1853 and 1857, and its infrastructure, including renovated old depots, reflects this rich history. Expect to spend around 7 hours and 57 minutes on this unique trail, which is a true test of endurance and a journey through time.

The Mon River Trail South offers a delightful touring cycling experience, winding through a picturesque wooded river valley alongside the Monongahela River. You'll find yourself on a well-packed crushed limestone surface, smooth enough for a comfortable ride, with plenty of opportunities to spot wildflowers, rock outcroppings, and scenic river views. This trail is a fantastic option for anyone seeking a relaxed ride in a natural setting, especially if you appreciate a touch of history along the way.

Planning your trip is straightforward, as the trail is consistently rated as easy with minimal elevation gain, making it ideal for families and touring cyclists of moderate ability. The southern end at Pricketts Fort State Park provides convenient amenities like parking, restrooms, and even a restaurant, making it a great access point. You can easily complete this 19.6-mile (31.6 km) route, with its 962 feet (293 metres) of elevation gain, in about 2 hours and 1 minute.

This trail is a key part of the larger Mon River Rail-Trail System, offering a gentle grade because it follows a former CSX rail line. Its connection to Pricketts Fort State Park, a significant historical site with an 18th-century frontier outpost, adds a unique cultural dimension to your ride. The Mon River Trail South is also notable for being wheelchair accessible, ensuring a welcoming experience for a wide range of visitors.

The Deckers Creek Trail Loop offers a dynamic touring cycling adventure, transitioning from paved urban paths to a well-maintained crushed limestone surface as it winds through West Virginia's varied landscape. You'll follow Deckers Creek, encountering dramatic rapids, beautiful waterfalls around miles 7, 12, and 13, and impressive rock outcroppings, all framed by forests of hardwoods and rhododendrons. This difficult 31.9-mile (51.4 km) route, with its 2013 feet (614 metres) of elevation gain, provides a consistent challenge over approximately 3 hours and 22 minutes, making it ideal for cyclists seeking a strenuous ride with rewarding natural scenery.

Planning your ride on the Deckers Creek Trail Loop is straightforward, with multiple access points and parking areas available along the route. Restrooms are conveniently located at Hazel Ruby McQuain Park and Marilla Park in Morgantown. Given the significant elevation gain and difficulty, it's wise to check weather patterns for Morgantown, West Virginia, and consider an early start to make the most of cooler temperatures, especially during summer months.

This trail is a proud part of the 48-mile Mon River Rail-Trail System and is recognized by the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy's Rail-Trail Hall of Fame, following a former railroad corridor. Beyond its natural beauty, the route offers glimpses into the region's past, including historical sites like the Bretz Coke Ovens. Its connection to the Caperton Trail and Mon River Trail also opens up possibilities for extended touring cycling routes, allowing you to explore more of West Virginia's scenic trails.

Embark on the Shepherdstown and Williamsport C&O Canal Loop for a rugged touring cycling adventure that immerses you in history and natural beauty. This difficult 42.3-mile (68.1 km) route, with 1486 feet (453 metres) of elevation gain and an estimated duration of 5 hours and 2 minutes, largely follows the unpaved C&O Canal Towpath. You'll navigate varied terrain, from crushed rock to gravel, passing historic lockhouses and aqueducts while enjoying views of the Potomac River, particularly around Big Slackwater. Be prepared for a challenging ride that rewards with pastoral landscapes and a deep dive into the region's past.

Planning your ride is key for this difficult loop. Spring and fall offer the most pleasant conditions, with stunning foliage and milder temperatures, though heavy tree cover provides some relief in summer. The C&O Canal Towpath can become very muddy and slow after rain, so check conditions before you go. Both Shepherdstown and Williamsport are historic towns along the route, providing convenient access to amenities like restaurants, lodging, and bike repair shops.

This loop is rich in historical significance, tracing a path through towns like Shepherdstown, WV, and Williamsport, MD, which played roles in the Civil War and the canal era. You'll encounter sites like Boteler's Ford, a Potomac River crossing used by Stonewall Jackson's troops, and the impressive Conococheague Aqueduct. The trail also connects to the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail, offering further exploration for those seeking more mileage.

The West Fork River Trail is a delightful journey that follows the meandering West Fork River, offering cyclists a blend of natural beauty and small-town charm. You'll ride through a mosaic of wooded areas, open fields, and past cliffs, with the river always a scenic companion. The surface varies between smooth asphalt and hard-packed crushed limestone, providing a comfortable ride for touring cyclists.

This moderate 26.5-mile (42.6 km) route, with its gentle 1231 feet (375 metres) of elevation gain, is typically completed in about 2 hours and 42 minutes. It's highly accessible for most cyclists, though wider tires are a good idea for the crushed stone sections. Parking, restrooms, and picnic areas are conveniently located at trailheads like Worthington Park, making planning easy.

As a converted railroad bed, the trail boasts a consistently gentle grade, making it ideal for a relaxed touring cycling adventure. It connects several small communities, including former coal mining towns, and is part of the larger Industrial Heartland Trails Coalition network, hinting at future possibilities for extended tours. The town of Shinnston, a growing "Trail Bike town," is also worth a visit.

The Cheat Lake Trail offers a delightful touring cycling experience, winding along the shores of Cheat Lake on a smooth, crushed limestone path. You'll enjoy continuous, expansive views of the lake and surrounding dense woodlands, with opportunities to spot local wildlife, especially near the nature viewing area at Greystone. This easy 7.1-mile (11.4 km) route, with a gentle 451 feet (137 metres) of elevation gain, is perfect for a relaxed ride that takes about 45 minutes.

This family-friendly trail is largely flat, making it accessible for all skill levels. While the trail itself is easy, be mindful that some access points, particularly on the Lake Lynn side, may involve steep hills or stairs where you might need to carry your bike. The trail also provides amenities like picnic tables, restrooms, and boat docks, making it suitable for a longer visit.

As a former rail corridor, the Cheat Lake Trail boasts a consistent, forgiving surface and is part of a larger network of rail-trails in the region. Its accessibility and numerous features, including fishing piers and a playground, make it a popular choice for those seeking an easy, scenic ride with plenty of options for recreation along the way.

The Martinsburg to Shepherdstown loop offers a delightful touring cycling experience, guiding you through picturesque rural West Virginia. You'll pedal along a mix of paved roads and dedicated cycleways, including the Route 9 Bike Path, which provides scenic stretches and views of the Potomac River. The journey culminates in the historic and charming town of Shepherdstown, known for its antique shops and art galleries, making it a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural exploration.

This moderate 37.7-mile (60.7 km) route involves 1400 feet (427 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes about 3 hours and 40 minutes. You can find parking in both Martinsburg and Shepherdstown, making access convenient. Spring and autumn are the best times to ride, offering pleasant weather and vibrant landscapes, though be prepared for some sun exposure as parts of the Route 9 Bike Path lack shade.

The loop's proximity to Civil War battlefields, such as Antietam, adds a layer of historical depth to your ride. Furthermore, the trail offers the exciting possibility of connecting with the C&O Canal Towpath, a compact gravel path that extends your adventure along the Potomac River through forests and past historic locks, providing an even more varied touring experience.