Overlook Trail, Cacapon Resort State Park

The Mountain Top, Thunderstruck, and Ziler Loop offers a dynamic mountain biking adventure through Cacapon Resort State Park, blending forested singletrack with exposed ridgeline views. You'll encounter everything from flowy sections to technical challenges, including the demanding Ziler Trail which climbs to the Cacapon Mountain Overlook for impressive vistas. This moderate 12.3-mile (19.8 km) route, with 1745 feet (532 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 2 hours and 3 minutes to complete, making it a rewarding ride for experienced mountain bikers.

To plan your visit, remember that while the loop is popular, some sections like Upper Thunderstruck are advanced and require significant skill, with limited bail-out points. The Ziler Loop can also be quite steep and rocky, potentially requiring you to dismount and push your bike. Always check the park's official website for current trail conditions and any specific advisories before you head out, and consider an early start to make the most of your day on the trails.

This loop is a standout in Cacapon Resort State Park, known for its comprehensive and varied riding experience. The Thunderstruck trail, a more recent addition from 2022, showcases thoughtful design with both machine-built and hand-built elements. The park itself, with its Civilian Conservation Corps heritage from the 1930s, adds a layer of historical interest to the natural beauty you'll encounter on your ride.