8 Trails In The Snowshoe Highlands Ride Center To Conquer
West Virginia’s first International Mountain Biking Association (IMBA) Ride Center™ — Snowshoe Highlands Ride Center offers over 375 miles of prime mountain bike terrain in Pocahontas County. From smooth, confidence-building rollers to heart-pounding singletrack descents, this network caters to every skill level. Whether you are an experienced rider seeking to go full throttle or a newcomer getting used to the sport, here are eight trails to tackle at the Snowshoe Highlands Ride Center.
1. Snowshoe Bike Park
Anchoring the Snowshoe Highlands Ride Center is the world-renowned Snowshoe Bike Park. Certified by the IMBA and consistently ranked among the best in the United States, this park is your gravity-fueled playground. Beginners can hone their skills on gentle slopes, while difficult downhill trails with legendary berms, jumps and drops will test the limits of even the most seasoned riders.
But the fun doesn’t stop at the boundaries of the Snowshoe Bike Park! The Snowshoe Highlands Ride Center extends far beyond, encompassing a vast network of trails within a 50-mile radius of Snowshoe Mountain Resort.
2. Kennison Mountain
Kennison Mountain offers an arduous backcountry experience for riders seeking a technical adventure. Navigate through rock gardens, roots and mud bogs on classic singletrack. The trail winds through a deep pine forest with lush green ferns and moss, providing a slow climb along the Kennison Mountain ridge. While there is some climbing throughout the trail, the most significant climbs are concentrated near the beginning. For a scenic loop, start at the Cranberry Mountain Nature Center and take in the unique Cranberry Glades Botanical Area.
3. Cheat Summit
Ascend switchbacks and conquer challenging climbs at Cheat Summit, a recently built, stacked loop trail system. The reward? Breathtaking panoramas showcasing the ongoing restoration efforts at this high-altitude gem. Once heavily logged and mined for coal, this area is now under the careful care of the U.S. Forest Service. Witness the inspiring progress of their restoration work as you ride along the scenic trails.
4. Ryder Gap to Paddy Knob
This 20-mile out-and-back route traverses the border between West Virginia and Virginia, featuring incredible mountain vistas and long, ripping descents. Be prepared for technical climbs and remote terrain (and maybe some wildlife encounters!). The climbs on this trail are steep and challenging, but you’ll enjoy the rewards of stunning views and long descents.
5. Tea Creek – Gauley Headwaters
Challenge yourself on the Gauley Headwaters Trail, an IMBA-designated Epic Trail located within the Tea Creek Trail System. This demanding route is a true test of skill and endurance, carving its way through the heart of the Monongahela National Forest. Navigate technical singletrack, conquer rocky sections and master switchbacks as you explore the diverse landscape. Ride along some of the best trails Tea Creek has to offer before looping back with a thrilling descent on Props Run Trail down to the Elk River Inn and Restaurant.
Not All About Speed: Beginner Options
Mountain biking isn’t limited to navigating steep downhillers at break-neck speed, there are plenty of trails that cater to less experienced riders. The Snowshoe Highlands Ride Center offers several options for easy pedaling, too.
6. Greenbrier River Trail
Experience the serenity of the Greenbrier River on a scenic ride along the longest rail-to-trail conversion in West Virginia. Lush green forests and remote backcountry await you around every bend. The 78-mile Greenbrier River Trail runs through several small towns, crosses 35 bridges and passes through two tunnels. The trail is ideal for leisure biking at less than a one percent grade. Rent bikes from local outfitters and explore the trail at your own pace, taking breaks to enjoy the scenery or have a picnic along the way. On this ride, you will find a real treasure — Sharp’s Tunnel. Spanning 511 feet, Sharp’s Tunnel was engineered to allow trains to travel through the mountain. Marvel as you ride through the cool darkness of the tunnel or turn on a light to guide your way.
7. Green Bank Observatory
Embark on an out-of-this-world adventure with a ride on the beginner-friendly green trails that circle the world’s largest steerable radio telescope at the Green Bank Observatory. Explore a model solar system and learn about the wonders of space exploration. The routes at Green Bank offer a combination of paved roads, turf and forest terrains.
8. West Fork Rail Trail
Escape deep into the Monongahela National Forest on the West Fork Rail Trail. This smooth, mostly flat trail is perfect for a relaxing ride or a family outing. Witness the beauty of the West Fork of the Greenbrier River as you journey along this 22-mile former railroad-grade trail between the mountain towns of Glady and Durbin.
Fuel Your Ride
Pocahontas County towns cater to mountain bikers with a range of amenities. From bike rentals and repair shops to convenient shuttles and delicious dining options, everything you need for a fantastic biking trip is readily available.
Request a Ride Snowshoe Highlands Mountain Biking Map to plan out your next mountain biking trip in Pocahontas County.