Find the top rated bike trails in West Virginia, whether you're looking for an easy short bike trail or a long bike trail, you'll find what you're looking for. Click on a bike trail below to find trail descriptions, trail maps, photos, and reviews.
I've been checking some of the local urban trails and this walk was next on the list. Some of the urban trails seem to push the concept of a rail trail but at least this trail does parallel an active railroad (the Cowen Subdivision). The trail is entirely paved and consists of two large loops that go around various balls fields. It does parallel the Buckhannon River a good bit and Buckhannon Riverwalk was the only name I saw listed anywhere. There is a spur that crosses the railroad and parallels it for a ways. It's a pleasant walk but unless you're in the area I wouldn't go out of my way for it.
I rode this 72 mile trail from east to west (gradual downhill grade) with 3 of my girlfriends. It was quite thick gravel but the downhill grade helped keep your momentum up to make it not completely exhausting pushing through the thicker stuff. It will rattle you pretty good and we were glad to come to the end. We went in late September and rode in a 60 degree cold drizzle the whole way. Nice feather in our caps!
I started at the Trailhead sign in Russellville and headed north. There is an a gravel section suitable for parking near the Trailhead sign. I will point that there were "No Parking" signs here. I believe it meant "No Parking" on the grass area, but it was ambiguous. I went ahead and parked there anyways without issue.
I ran north all the way to the Trailhead sign in Nallen. The path is mostly flat, well maintained, and very suitable for running. I ran a faster "tempo" run without issue.
I ran the Southside Trail starting at the parking lot (across the bridge from Thurmond). I ran out 3.25 miles and came back.
The trail had some water/mud covered sections. These sections weren't long (10-20 yards), but I had to stop and walk around the mud. I had to do this approximately 10 times during my 3.25 miles.
This was closer to trail than rail trail. There were sections with more larger rocks, stumps, roots to be dealt with. Expect to be paying attention to the ground as much as the scenery.
From Nallen 9 miles to the second bridge crossing is wide smooth trail that follows the River with only slight grade.
Very remote area of WV with beautiful mountains and no crowds. You won’t meet very many people on this trail. Good for bicycles or walking. At any age.
I did this trail twice in a weekend. I liked it.
Hiked this trail in three days. Very scenic and peaceful. A lot of history to take in and enjoy.
After going out and back on the MC Trail (only a five mile round trip but totally worth it!), I connected to the Mon River Trail.
Starting at Pricketts Fort, I only went about six miles or so to just beyond the dam before heading back to the trailhead.
That twelve mile ride on a cloudy, late October Saturday afternoon were plenty enough to get awesome views of the Monongahela River, its dam, homes (some stately; some not so much), and dazzling fall color. Plenty of photo ops await!
The trail is hard packed dirt, covered in a layer of golden leaves, and despite rain earlier in the day, it was still smooth, fast, and navigable. I would say it was almost as smooth as asphalt.
I would suspect that because of the continued threat of rain, I pretty much had the trail to myself. My shoes and bike got mud splattered, but it was worth it. The Mon River Trail (South) is worthy of your time, and worthy of its status as a Rails-to-Trails Hall of Famer!
I have never enjoyed a 2.5 mile trail more!
On a late October Saturday afternoon I was absolutely enthralled with this trail. I started at the Pricketts Fort trailhead and was immediately in awe of the spectacular autumnal colors: red, orange, yellow and gold!
The tunnel was fun and interesting, but the highlight was what Mother Nature created with the colorful trees, glistening Prickett creek. and the chirping birds.
The asphalt trail is in perfect condition and is easy to ride. I actually saw a couple of preschoolers enjoying it on their bikes with their families.
Be sure to do this in conjunction with the Mon River Trail to enhance your experience on these Hall of Fame trails!
I’m looking forward to seeing this trail continue to its potential at 10 miles. It was a nice walk from the Trailhead park. It’s not quite peak leaf season yet…but the leaves are turning.
We camped on Elk River in Gassaway. Did out and back rides on the trail from Gassaway (end/beginning) down to near Ivydale then started from other end (Hartland) up to just shy of Ivydale. No services, one old convenience store near trail in Duck. Surface is crushed stone and in very good condition. Hardly saw a soul. Lots of deer. Be sure you bring what you need with you. Follows river quite closely all the way.
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