By eatolerable in July, 2011
There’s nothing quite like riding bike on one of the hottest days of the year, and this trail from West Virginia’s northern panhandle into Pennsylvania is a great spot to do it. In 93-degree heat and sweltering humidity we popped lots of cold water into our bottle cages near Weirton, W.Va., and started pedaling east.
The trailhead couldn’t be easier to find – just off the Harmon Creek exit of Route 22 and you’re right there. It’s literally under the highway. There’s LOTS of parking, but no restroom. You’ll find a portable toilet about a mile along the trail.
The first two or so miles are smooth and the trail is lined with markers that click off each quarter mile. But around mile three, as we crossed a big double-wide rail bridge, the trail became progressively rougher. Packed gravel gave way to large stones and the mile markers disappeared. Even so, it was a gorgeous ride along (what I’m guessing is) Harmon Creek and through heavy woods. Even in the heat we saw bunnies, chipmunks and even a curious deer, who popped out of the tall grass after we passed by.
Around mile five we came upon a fairly new tent right at trailside that was slashed and abandoned. We created stories about what happened there, one more fantastical than the next, but in the end were really curious about the scene.
Oh, and there’s something oddly fun about riding across that invisible state line. The spot is nicely noted by an old white rail marker
With only part of a day to ride and water running low, we turned around at the eight-mile mark and headed back to the trailhead. As this direction was ever-to-slightly downhill we got back in good time with a not-as-hot breeze in our faces.
Two thumbs up for trail. We’ll be back in cooler climes to tackle a much longer ride.
By markp158 in July, 2011
Rode the panhandle trial from McDonald to Burgettstown and wanted to give an updated review of what I discovered:
- Trial consists of crushed stone very similar to Montour trial. This results in a very rideable surface. There was no large stones or rough sections on this portion of the trial.
- Area was very much away from it all. Although you pass through small towns, area was very rural with a lot of wildlife. I saw deer and other small game throughout the trip.
- Pennsys restaurant is now closed in Burgettstown. However, according to a local, there is new restaurant opening soon on the trial across from Pennsys.
-Overall, the experience was great and I can't wait to ride other sections of the Panhandle Trial.
By tposkie in October, 2010
I use this trail for biking, running or walking. Not many intersections so cross traffic is no issue. Try it, you'll like it.