Rail-Trail
State: MD Length: 22 miles Surface: Asphalt, Crushed Stone
The Allegheny Highlands Trail of Maryland (AHTM) follows the route of the old Western Maryland Railroad for 22 miles, between Cumberland, Maryland, and the Maryland–Pennsylvania border north of Frostburg. Part of the AHTM route parallels the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad and its tourist steam locomotive, which provides scenic three-hour excursions. The trail is flat relatively with a surface of crushed limestone (some paved sections) and offers beautiful scenery in the rolling hills of western Maryland. If you begin in Frostburg at the Frostburg Depot, you can head in two directions: to Cumberland or to the state border. Built in 1891, the depot was both a passenger and freight station. In 1989 it was restored as a restaurant and is now the endpoint of the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad tour. From Frostburg follow the AHTM north to the Mason-Dixon Line, about 5 miles. En route you will pass through the Borden Tunnel, built in 1911 and nearly 1,000 feet long. On a hot summer day it provides a refreshing release from the heat. The trail is part of the Great Allegheny Passage, which will take you all the way to Pittsburgh. If you head southeast from Frostburg, the Allegheny Highlands Trail of Maryland goes to Cumberland, a scenic town with plenty of charm. Here you can continue to Washington, D.C., along the C&O Canal Towpath.
State: WV Length: 24.50 miles Surface: Asphalt, Crushed Stone
The Allegheny Highlands Trail (AHT) follows the original route of the West Virginia Central and Pittsburg Railway, built by Henry Gassaway Davis in 1884. For 24.5 miles this exceptionally scenic trail provides panoramic views of the West Virginia countryside, as it passes through a mountainous region with small towns and rural farmland. From the southern Highland Park trailhead in Elkins, the trail gradually ascends for about 15 miles, passing around Pheasant and Polecat Knob mountains. The rural views and mountainous backgrounds provide numerous opportunities for photos. Beyond the mountains, the trail starts to descend more steeply and approaches the small town of Parsons. A short, easy-to-follow on-road section of the trail in Parsons offers the chance to grab a bite to eat at any of the several restaurants. The trail crosses the Shavers Fork River on the restored Western Maryland Railroad bridge and continues through Mill Race Park. A ramp from the park ascends to the bike lane on the Black Fork River bridge. The next trailhead is located just over the Black Fork River on the southern side of US 219. The remaining section is paved and follows the beautiful Black Fork River to the community of Hendricks. There are plans to extend the Allegheny Highlands Trail north to Mt. Storm Lake, making it about 44 miles. The railroad grade, though not developed as part of the AHT, continues along the beautifully scenic Blackwater River to Thomas as the Blackwater Canyon Trail. Be warned: it's steep.
State: WV Length: 4 miles Surface: Ballast, Dirt, Grass
Nestled in a northern valley of West Virginia, the Barnum Rail-Trail follows the North Branch of the Potomac River through the superb scenery of the Upper Potomac region. If you plan to explore this out-and-back trail by bike, a mountain bike is the best choice for tackling the packed ballast surface. The trail begins in the very small community of Barnum, just north of Randolph Jennings Lake in Mineral County. The trailhead (the only access point for this route) is very pleasant, with ample parking, restroom facilities, and a small park overlooking the Potomac River that offers access to incredible fishing. Exercise caution for the first mile; the trail is open to vehicular traffic, though you probably won't encounter too many cars at this remote location. Beyond the large parking area and a closed gate, the remaining 3 miles are strictly non-motorized. After the gate, the trail heads into the open and offers stunning views of the vibrant Potomac. Lush hillsides rise on either side of the river, and the trail hugs the west slope while the water churns and flows immediately to your left for the next 2 miles. The trail then enters a densely wooded area-a landscape it maintains to its northern endpoint about a mile ahead. You can hear the active rapids only a few hundred feet away at any given time. Though there is no official signage marking the end of the trail, it becomes apparent where the corridor is no longer maintained. At this point, simply turn around and enjoy the ride or walk back.
State: WV Length: 3.50 miles Surface: Dirt, Grass
This trail in the Tea Creek Recreation area of the Monongahela National Forest is one of many trails in this beautiful mountain wilderness. Try combining it with the Gauley Mountain Trail, the Tea Creek Trail, or the Williams River Trail.
State: WV Length: 10.50 miles Surface: Dirt, Gravel
In 1888, the Blackwater Canyon Trail, located in the Monongahela National Forest, was used to haul coal and lumber through this stunning canyon. Today, remnants of this history still remain just outside of Thomas in the form of coke ovens that line the trail along the mountainside. The Blackwater Canyon Trail is perfect for hikers or mountain bikers in search of solitude. The relatively straight trail is beautiful, with mountains lining both sides of the canyon, and the roaring of the Blackwater River provides a soothing soundtrack. Better views of the river, including scenic waterfalls, are available during late fall, winter and early spring, when the trees don't have as many leaves. It is best to follow this trail from Thomas to Hendricks since there is considerable climb in the other direction. As you travel along the Blackwater Canyon Trail, you may happen upon one of several endangered species, including the West Virginia flying squirrel, Indiana bat or the Cheat Mountain salamander. The habitat surrounding the trail is vital to the survival of these species, so it is important to stay on the trail. In Hendricks, it is also possible to pick up the Allegheny Highlands Trail and Limerock Trail (hiking only).
State: VA Length: 0.80 miles Surface:
Learn more about this project on DailyProgress.com
State: WV Length: 3.80 miles Surface: Dirt, Grass
Boundary Trail is located in the town of Slatyfork, WV which is surrounded by the Monogahela Forest. Boundary Trail is 3.75 miles and best known for challenging hiking and mountain biking. It is part of the Tea Creek Recreation area and has connections to the Gauley Mountain Trail and Bear Pen Trails. You can find a good description here Single Tracks Website :
State: WV Length: 1 miles Surface: Crushed Stone
Short new trail connecting Ridgeley, WV with the C&O Canal Towpath at milepost 183 near the east end of Cumberland, Maryland. This new trail will include the Knobbley Tunnel and Bridge over the Potomac River.
State: DC, MD Length: 184.50 miles Surface: Crushed Stone, Dirt, Gravel
The Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historic Park (a.k.a. C&O Canal Towpath) follows the route of the Potomac River for 184.5 miles between Georgetown in Washington, D.C., and Cumberland, Maryland. Hundreds of original features, including locks, lock houses, aqueducts and other canal structures, are reminders of the canal's role as a transportation system during the Canal Era, which peaked in the mid-19th century. The C&O Canal Towpath was one such engineering feat that, unfortunately for investors, was largely outdone by the competing railroad that parallels the towpath in many places. Today, however, recreationists of all types can enjoy this mostly level, continuous trail through the spectacular scenery of the Potomac River valley. Every year millions of visitors hike or bike the C&O; the peak season is from May through October. Weekends from spring through fall are busy, especially around Washington, D.C. and Great Falls National Park in Maryland. The trail provides campgrounds (both private and public), picnic areas, porta-potties and lookout points along the way. In addition, you'll find many amenities, such as cafes and restaurants, B&Bs and motels, bike shops, museums and retail shops, as well as sites of historical importance. A handful of visitor centers operated by the National Park Service sell guidebooks and provide information about the canal towpath, its history and local points of interest. You can even stay the night in one a handful of restored lock houses (visit the National Park Service website for more information). Of particular importance is the role the canal itself played during the American Civil War, which was as a dividing line between North and South. Troops and both sides of the conflict lobbied ammunitions across the water and crossed the river and canal numerous times, raiding enemy camps, sabotaging canal operations and marching to—and retreating from—battles, including the Gettysburg Campaign. Though many aren'
State: WV Length: 4 miles Surface: Dirt
The County Line Trail is a short, less-traveled alternative to the neighboring 21.7-mile West Fork Trail. The County Line Trail travels 4 miles along the border of Randolph and Pocahontas counties, hence its name, and follows the ridgeline of the Little Beech Mountain through hardwood forest in Monongahela National Forest. This area is home to impressive stands of oak trees, a slight change from the usual Monongahela setting of rhododendrons, pine trees and ferns. A large green metal gas pump sits off Forest Service Road 35A, marking the start of the County Line Trail, which is well-marked with the national forest's standard blue blazes, as well as wood arrow signs. Nearly 3 miles in, you will make a short ascent to the top of the ridge. After another mile, you will enter a clearing for yet another gas well. The service road for this well doubles as the last leg of the trail. Follow it to reach the end of the County Line Trail, where you can either turn back or connect to the Beulah Trail, which takes you north for another 3.3 miles.
State: WV Length: 2.30 miles Surface: Dirt
Located in Canaan Mountain area of the Monongahela National Forest. Many people use this trail in conjunction with the x-country ski trail to walk between the Blackwater Falls State Park and the Canaan Valley State Park. This trail is also part of the Allegheny Trail. The trail has many wet places. Horses are allowed, but not recommended. Trail is marked with blue blazes and signs. Hiking shelter is located just north of the junction with Plantation Trail.
State: WV Length: 8 miles Surface: Dirt
The scenic East Fork Trail follows the East Fork of the Greenbrier River through hemlock stands and pine plantations and past many small waterfalls, extending 8 miles from the Island Campground in Bartow to Pig's Ear Road (Forest Service Road 254). During the winter thaw and spring rains, this trail gets wet and muddy; you'll find stream crossings at mile 2.5 and near mile 6. You can avoid the first crossing by staying on the east side of the stream and looking for the trail blazes again within 300 yards. The final section of the trail leaves the banks of the Greenbrier River and follows a steep uphill climb to Pig's Ear Road. The East Fork Trail can be difficult going on a mountain bike and is recommended for hiking only. There are camping options along the trail: a small campground at the trail's start and more near mile 5, where the trail crosses Forest Service Road 51.
State: WV Length: 5.20 miles Surface: Dirt, Gravel
This remote trail along an old logging-eral railroad grade, in the Tea Creek Recreation Area of Monongahela National Forest is a favorite of mountain bikers and is wide and well maintained. Despite the mountain elevation, the trail is mostly flat. This is a great opportunity to explore a beautiful wilderness. This trail can connect with the Williams River Trail, the Bear Pen Ridge Trail,the Tea Creek Mountain Trail, adn the Red Run Trail.
State: MD, PA Length: 141 miles Surface: Crushed Stone
Now the longest rail-trail east of the Mississippi River, the 150-mile Great Allegheny Passage spans two states in its course along great rivers and across mountain passes. Running from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to Cumberland, Maryland, the Great Allegheny Passage traces the paths of railroads that helped build America. In 2010 agreements were made final for the last mile of trail leading into Pittsburgh to be developed. After connecting with the Southside Trail (aka Three Rivers Heritage Trail), the Great Allegheny Passage Trail heads south through McKeesport along the banks of the Youghiogheny River, following the route of the Pittsburgh, McKeesport and Youghiogheny Railroad Built in 1883, the railroad carried coal and coke from the rich Connellsville District to the Pittsburgh steel mills. Nicknamed the P-Mickey for its initials, P. McK. & Y., it merged with the Pittsburgh and Lake Erie Railroad. The freight and coal traffic that sustained the branch dried up by the mid-1980s, and the line fell into disuse in 1990 As you move upstream along the riverside trail, you pass lush green hillsides and once booming industrial towns. The first 40 miles of trail go through the Pennsylvania towns of Boston, West Newton and Dawson. Trailside B&Bs, bike shops and cafes line the trail in these towns, making them great resting places At mile 43 the trail reaches the historic boom-town of Connellsville. This self-proclaimed "trail town" offers wonderful parks, restaurants and cafes. The industrial revolution is still alive in this southwestern Pennsylvania town For the next 17 miles the trail follows the Youghiogheny River through remote Pennsylvania hill country. Take refuge under the dense canopy of the hardwood forest on the river's edge. Before reaching quaint Ohiopyle, you enter the state park with the same name and cross two impressive trestles. The town is a home base
State: WV Length: 19 miles Surface: Asphalt, Crushed Stone
Morgantown is known as the home of West Virginia University, the inspiration for a Joni Mitchell song and the birthplace of Don Knotts. And it's also known for its wonderful trails: the Mon River Rail-Trail System. The nexus of this 45-mile trail system is Hazel Ruby McQuain Park in downtown Morgantown. Located adjacent to a restored railway station, the park is a vibrant hub of local activity, with a steady stream of walkers, runners, skaters and cyclists. The rail-trail that runs through the park-stretching 6.5 miles to the north and 19.5 miles to the south-hugs the Monongahela River, one of a few American rivers that flows north. The "Mon" eventually arrives in Pittsburgh, where it joins the Allegheny River to form the Ohio River. This system of trails, which follows a former CSX rail line, comprises four segments, each with their own name. The Decker's Creek Trail is the gem of the system. Beginning at the confluence of the Monongahela River and Decker's Creek at Hazel Ruby McQuain Park, the trail stretches 19 miles to the southeast, gaining 1,000 feet as it climbs out of the Monongahela River valley. It parallels Deckers Creek and Scenic Byway Route 7 East to slightly west of Reedsville, WV, in Preston County. But the most memorable feature of this landscape is Decker's Creek itself. Because of the steady grade, the trail passes a series of dramatic rapids and waterfalls, while the creek noisily rushes headlong toward the Monongahela. Highly-experienced kayakers paddle Deckers Creek, which has some Class VI rapids, and rock climbing is also popular in the region. The first 2.5 miles of the Decker's Creek Trail are paved, passing through an unremarkable urban landscape in Morgantown. The trail provides easy access to Marilla Park, a city park with a swimming pool & water slides, tennis courts, and playground as well as neighboring restaurants & food stores. After passing under Interstate 68, the surface changes to crushed stone. As the ascent begins,
State: WV Length: 4.10 miles Surface: Dirt
The trailhead for the 4-mile Moore Run Trail is marked simply with a posted sign along Forest Service Road 324. You may need to look closely for the trail itself, as the overgrowth of rhododendron around the trailhead can obscure it. However, once you find the trail near the creek bed, it is easy to follow the entire way. The trail begins by following Moore Run (a creek) for about 2 miles. You will pass through two high mountain meadows and cross several small streams. After 2 miles, as the trail starts to steadily descend down McGowan Mountain toward Otter Creek, you will be treated to the sights and sounds of this remote region. Listen for the rushing rapids of Otter Creek far below. The view over the valley and of the mountains in the distance is breathtaking. Also watch for various forms of wildlife, including small mammals and birds that are found throughout this entire wilderness area. The trail terminates at the valley floor, where it meets another rail-trail, the Otter Creek Trail, and the Possession Camp Trail. To reach both of these trails, you must cross the rather wide Otter Creek, so hike up your pant legs and plunge in-carefully!-if you plan to continue your trail adventure on the opposite shore.
State: WV Length: 11.40 miles Surface: Dirt
The Otter Creek Wilderness Area has many trails, mostly for hiking through the wilderness. Biking is prohibited in the wilderness area but horses are allowed in some areas. One of the trails, the most popular, follows an abandoned railroad grade along Otter Creek between Condon Run and Dry Fork River. The trail crosses the creek in many places and there are no bridges. Horseback riders are urged not to use the segment between Moore Run Trail and Green Mountain Trail; the main Otter Creek Trail is narrow through here and the drop-off steep. Instead use the Possession Camp or Mylius trails.
This trail is in the Momomgahela National Forest in the Canaan Mountain area.
State: WV Length: 2.50 miles Surface: Dirt, Grass
This old logging railroad grade trail is located in the town of Slatyfork, West Virginia which is surrounded by the Monongahela National Forest. The Red Run Trail will test your mountain biking skills with its rock and root covered surface. The trail intersects with the Tea Creek Connector and the Gauley Mountain Trail. A good review can be found here on the Single Tracks Website :
State: WV Length: 5 miles Surface: Dirt
Located in the Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area of the Monongahela National Forest—a hotspot for mountain biking and rock climbing—the Seneca Creek Trail is a scenic feast of streams, meadows, forest and waterfalls. Unlike other rail-trails in the national forest, this out-and-back route shows characteristics typical of former railroad corridors: it is flat and provides a relatively steady, easy hike and is doable with a mountain bike. The trail is part of the 70-mile Spruce Knob–Seneca Creek Backcountry Trail System. At 4,863 feet, Spruce Knob is West Virginia's highest peak. While all of the interconnecting trails are well-marked with blue diamond blazes, do not expect the additional 65 miles of hiking to be so gentle. The trail follows Seneca Creek, a fast-flowing, spring-fed mountain stream whose clean, crystal water can be heard and seen nearly everywhere along the trail. From the trailhead, you'll immediately pass through meadows and spruce groves. A few miles in, you will encounter hardwoods. A canopy of maple, beech, birch and cherry create a natural tunnel, offering a wide array of color in the fall and shade in the summer. Multiple creek crossings dot this trail, and there are no footbridges, so come prepared to get your feet wet. Near the trail's end, the last, and most rewarding, creek crossing brings you to the 30-foot Upper Seneca Creek Falls. The spectacular falls are the highest on Seneca Creek and offer a dramatic finale to this trail.
State: WV Length: 44 miles Surface: Dirt, Grass
The Tea Creek Area Trails system consists of 44 miles of trails, many of which follow old railroad corridors. The trails are found in the Marlington Ranger District within Monongahela National Forest. Most of the trails are considered difficult for mountain biking. For more information, contact the forest at the link to the right.
State: WV Length: 25 miles Surface: Ballast, Crushed Stone, Gravel
The West Fork Trail is a pleasant 21.7-mile trail that snakes its way through a remote mountain setting and follows the West Fork River for most of its route. The soothing rumble of the river complements the trail's serene environment. This is a great path for biking, but the surface is primarily ballast left over from the rail corridor, so leave your road bike at home. The trail begins in the small community of Glady. Even though the trail appears to be flat, you will find yourself on a gentle decline as the trail follows the river downstream from Glady. For the first 5 miles, the trail takes a higher route above the western side of the river and pops in and out of small groves of conifers, offering great views of the surrounding hills. The trail then levels out with the river and travels the remaining 17 miles to the town of Durbin following the river southward. Meandering through the mountains, the trail and the river make sweeping 180-degree turns through a tight valley surrounded by steep hillsides. The West Fork River is a popular fishing spot, and you are bound to see a number of anglers along the way. The trail comes to an end in the town of Durbin, a quiet Appalachian town that has wonderful little lunch spots and a nice Main Street corridor. There is a bonus 1.3-mile rail-trail, the Widney Park Rail-Trail, which can be accessed right in downtown Durbin.
Located in the heart of West Virginia, the Whitmeadow Ridge Trail is also in the center of the Monongahela National Forest. Otherwise known as the Whitmeadow Hunters Access Trail (notice the bullet holes in the trail signs), this beautiful trail follows the ridgeline of Cheat Mountain 4.7 miles to Shavers Fork. It travels through a secondary forest of pines, oaks and several different fern species. There is about a 1,000-foot descent from the beginning off Forest Road 92 to the end. This descent is not gradual until it reaches the old railroad bed near Shavers Fork. The trail parallels Shavers Fork through a rhododendron forest until it reaches the end, where Shavers Fork meets Whitmeadow Run. The parking area is next to a catch-and-release fishing hole that is also perfect for picnics, though there are no facilities. The drive to the trail is also beautiful. The highway route from Elkins to Forest Road 92 is known as the Cheat Mountain Backway, a scenic highway that passes the site of the Cheat Mountain Summit Fort where Union Troops camped in the summer of 1861. There are now interpretive signs around the grounds to tell the story to visitors.
State: WV Length: 2.50 miles Surface: Dirt, Gravel
Explore the Williams River and the mountain country of West Virginia on this trail. Be sure to bring a mountain bike, not a road bike if you are planning to ride.