5 Leisure Biking Routes In Pocahontas County, West Virginia
Pocahontas County, West Virginia, is known for its adrenaline-pumping mountain biking trails. But if you prefer a gentler pace, there are plenty of scenic routes perfect for beginners, casual riders and families. From riverside trails to forested paths, here are five leisure biking routes to explore in Nature’s Mountain Playground.
1. Greenbrier River Trail – Marlinton to Buckeye | Marlinton, WV
Distance: Around 8 miles (round trip)
Difficulty: Easy
Surface: Paved
Parking: Marlinton Trailhead, 9th Street
The Greenbrier River Trail is the state’s longest rail-to-trail conversion, stretching 78 miles through remote wilderness and welcoming small towns. One of the easiest sections to try begins in Marlinton and continues to Buckeye along the trail’s only paved stretch. Along the way, stop at Stillwell Park for sports fields, skateboard ramps and the Wyat Nature Trail. Or cool off with a summertime swim at Duncan Rocks.
2. Snowshoe Parkway | Snowshoe, WV
Distance: Less than 1 mile (one way)
Difficulty: Moderate (short but steep in sections)
Surface: Paved
Parking: Near Powderidge Condos at Snowshoe Mountain Resort
For a short but rewarding adventure, ride the Snowshoe Parkway. This paved path climbs from the Powderidge Condos to the Top of the World at Snowshoe Mountain Resort, packing sweeping views into less than a mile. Highlights include the Western Territory overlook and panoramic vistas from the mountaintop.
3. Green Bank Observatory Loop | Green Bank, WV
Distance: Around 3 miles (loop)
Difficulty: Easy
Surface: Mostly paved with a short gravel section
Parking: Green Bank Observatory visitor lot
Take a ride that’s truly out of this world. The Green Bank Observatory Loop winds past historic telescopes and leads directly to the massive 485-foot Green Bank Telescope. The route begins on Observatory Drive, turns onto Hosterman Road and finishes on the Connector Trail.
Note: e-bikes are not permitted on the Green Bank Observatory campus.
4. West Fork Trail | Durbin, WV
Distance: Varies (out-and-back)
Difficulty: Easy
Surface: Packed gravel
Parking: Just outside Durbin on U.S. Route 250, near the brown U.S. Forest Service sign
Located within the Monongahela National Forest, the West Fork Trail stretches 22 miles from Durbin to Glady in Randolph County. Its flat grade and gravel surface make for a smooth, family-friendly ride. The trail closely follows the West Fork of the Greenbrier River, offering fishing and swimming opportunities along the way. As an out-and-back route, it’s easy to adjust your distance, and Durbin (at the southern end) offers food and lodging. Adventurous riders can branch off to the High Falls Trail for a side trip to the spectacular High Falls of the Cheat.
Note: e-bikes are prohibited on U.S. National Forest trails.
5. South Fork Cranberry (FR 102) | Cranberry Wilderness Area, WV
Distance: 4 miles (one way)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Surface: Gravel
Parking: Gated entrance past the Cranberry Glades Boardwalk
For a ride into remote backcountry, follow this gravel forest road as it traces the South Fork of the Cranberry River to its meeting point with the North Fork. As you pedal, you’ll pass camping shelters and experience the solitude of the Cranberry Wilderness. Consider extending your trip with an overnight stay or connecting to additional trails for a longer adventure.
Note: e-bikes are prohibited on U.S. National Forest trails.
Prepare For Your Ride
Before you head out, stop by the Pocahontas County Visitor Center to pick up trail maps and other helpful resources. While you’re exploring, please practice the Leave No Trace Seven Principles to ensure our trails stay beautiful for generations to come.
Request a free Adventure Guide to learn more about Pocahontas County and plan your next biking trip.