A Guide To Mountain Biking In Pocahontas County – Where to Ride, Rent & Refuel
What is there to know about mountain biking in Pocahontas County? For starters, it is home to West Virginia’s first and currently only International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA) Ride Center, Snowshoe Highlands Ride Center, and is one of only three Silver Level Ride Centers on the East Coast. Nature’s Mountain Playground offers endless riding opportunities, from heart-pumping black diamond trails to gentle green paths that hone your skills. Whether you’re a seasoned thrill-seeker or a beginner looking to find your rhythm, there’s a perfect route for you here.
Key Trail Systems
Click the header of each trail system for a detailed look on TrailForks.
Snowshoe Mountain Resort
Snowshoe Mountain Resort offers both backcountry trails and the thrills of the Snowshoe Bike Park. Snowshoe Mountain Resort has hosted the UCI World Cup numerous times since its inception as a Bronze Level Ride Center in 2019, so you know the trails are vetted and offer up a world-class riding experience. Snowshoe features endless terrain and all the amenities of a resort, from comfortable lodging, rentals and gear to delicious grub and ice cold beer.
Snowshoe Backcountry
From riding through dense, lush forests to ridge line climbs and rugged descents, Snowshoe Backcountry offers up 11,000 acres of pristine trails for riders of all backgrounds to enjoy. Enjoy local favorites, like The Fingers or Cheat Ridge Trail to the Fire Tower where you can climb to the top and take in some breathtaking vistas of the county. Additionally, Cheat Ridge Trail takes you right past the Backcountry Hut, a unique dining experience you can book in advance.
Snowshoe Bike Park
Renowned as one of the best in the United States, the Snowshoe Mountain Bike Park has one of the largest trail systems in the East. At the epicenter of the Snowshoe Highlands, the Snowshoe Bike Park provides legendary berms and jump drops, giving riders a look into what has made it the perfect venue for UCI World Cup riders.
Tea Creek Trail System
The Tea Creek Trail System is home to over 44 miles of rugged mountain biking terrain within the Monongahela National Forest. This area consists of old rail beds and skid grades with rock gardens, steep climbs and rapid downhill descents. Expert riders enjoy this trail system for the thrilling technical tracks and scenic beauty, as it is shrouded in rhododendron tunnels and dense spruce forests. These trails can be accessed from the Highland Scenic Highway (Route 150) which also provides scenic driving and riding opportunities, as well as camping within Day Run, Tea Creek and Williams River campgrounds. Access to the Tea Creek Trail System is also available from the Mine Road off of Route 219 N.
Gauley Mountain Trails
Adjacent to the Tea Creek Trail System in the Monongahela National Forest, the Gauley Mountain Trails provide intermediate level rides for those who haven’t quite worked their way up to black diamond. Once a rail grade and now a singletrack system, Gauley Mountain Trails provide routes known for their gentle rolling terrain filled with berms and rock gardens. These trails are accessible from both the Highland Scenic Highway and Mine Road off of Route 219 N.
Cheat Trail System
The Cheat Trail System within the Monongahela National Forest is a hidden gem offering a taste of what makes Snowshoe Highlands Ride Center world-class. This system features mostly black diamond trails like Whitmeadow, a bidirectional singletrack with nearly 700 feet of elevation change, and Crouch Ridge Trail that caps the ridge line of Cheat Mountain. For intermediate riders, the Cheat Trail System offers a unique chance to explore old-school, singletracks like Stonecoal Loop and Shavers Fork Trail.
Elk River Trails
Experience even more riding within the Monongahela National Forest near the Elk River Touring Center. Props Run, a mostly downhill trail that overlooks the Elk River as it traverses Gauley Mountain, is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Intermediate trails like Roaring Run and Powerline consist of long switchbacks, punchy climbs and open descents. If you’re looking to ride the Elk River Trails, lodge at the nearby Elk River Inn for cozy quarters, as well as excellent guiding opportunities, from mountain biking to fly fishing (and cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter).
Mower Basin Trail System
Nestled within Pocahontas and Randolph counties, the Mower Basin Trail System is a favorite for singletrack and gravel riders. Reclaimed from a former strip mine within the Monongahela National Forest, Mower Basin Trails traverse through towering spruce trees that give way to open vistas, providing jaw-dropping views of the Allegheny Mountains. These trails are perfect for those searching for beginner and intermediate trails, making it the perfect hub for families. Those riding within this system can make the most of their trip and sleep under the stars at one of the many campsites within the Mower Basin. Be sure to stop in the nearby town of Durbin (a Mon Forest Town) for coffee or lunch before browsing the Durbin Art Gallery and watching the Mountain Rail Adventures steam locomotives roll into town. Extend your stay at one of the many lodging options in Durbin, from Station 2 Lodge to Airbnbs.
Green Bank Observatory
It’s not meant to necessarily be a pun when we say riding at the Green Bank Observatory is, “out of this world.” Made up of mostly short climbs and flat trails, riding at Green Bank Observatory allows you to get up-close and personal with the world’s largest steerable telescope, the Green Bank Telescope! When you’re done venturing the trails, be sure to schedule a tour at the Green Bank Observatory and explore the Science Center for a fun interactive look into our universe! Fuel up afterwards with lunch and some ice cream at Starlight Cafe before grabbing some unique souvenirs at the Gift Shop.
Seneca State Forest
The trails within and around the Seneca State Forest offer everything from laidback beginner trails to intermediate trails that offer fast and flowy downhill descents. Located in the National Radio Quiet Zone, Seneca State Forest features 40 miles of trails and gravel routes. Take a break from exploring all the trails in the state forest, with a picnic by Seneca Lake. Bring your own lunch or take our advice and stop by Mountain State Bakery for some goodies. You can also rent kayaks and canoes for a relaxing activity! The Seneca State Forest Gift Shop, located at the entrance of the forest, sells gifts and provides guests with detailed maps and information on other activities and attractions in Pocahontas County.
Rimel Trail System
The Rimel Trail System is vast in size and encompasses trails that trace the West Virginia and Virginia border, as well as new mountain biking routes within Watoga State Park. Made up of mostly intermediate trails, the Rimel Trail System offers rides for those seeking some distance. The Middle Mountain Trail is 20 miles in length and traverses county lines into Greenbrier County, ending in Neola where riders can enjoy dodgy climbs and steep descents. Watoga State Park and the trails within its boundaries are perfect for families looking to experience a full biking getaway. Rent your own cabin and enjoy all the fun activities from kayaking and fishing at Watoga Lake to disc golf and even tubing the Greenbrier River — all which can be done from the comfort of your bike.
Cranberry Backcountry
When we say that the Cranberry Backcountry offers a little bit of everything — we really mean it. From green-level rides, like the six-mile Cow Pasture Trail to countless intermediate trails and the gnarly backcountry (and black diamond) Kennison Mountain Trail, riders of every skill level can find something to enjoy in the Cranberry Backcountry. Located in the Monongahela National Forest, which is home to the largest Forest Service wilderness east of the Mississippi, Cranberry Backcountry is great for the more adventurous rider — try packing in a tent or your fishing pole! The fresh flowing streams within the Cranberry Backcountry are home to native trout and make a perfect place to cast a line. Check out the incredible attractions nearby, like the Falls of Hills Creek, Cranberry Glades Boardwalk, Highland Scenic Highway and the Cranberry Mountain Nature Center!
Rentals, Outfitters and Points of Interest
Jack Horner’s Corner
Located along the Greenbrier River Trail and at the entrance to Watoga State Park, Jack Horner’s Corner is a great place to rent bikes, purchase apparel and grab everything you need for your camping trip! Not to mention, Jack Horner’s Corner offers some of the best soft serve ice cream in the county along with pizza, barbeques, sandwiches, wraps and salads. If you’re looking for shuttle services, Jack Horner’s Corner also offers shuttles to those who rent bikes, kayaks and canoes.
Hillsboro Public House
Just a little over three miles south on Route 219 in Hillsboro, Hillsboro Public House offers delectable Appalachian-inspired grub and West Virginia craft beer, wine and cocktails — not to mention they host incredible live music during most weekends!
Hillsboro
Hillsboro is a wonderful community to stay in, with many Airbnbs located in town. The town is close to Watoga State Park and the Greenbrier River Trail, as well as 19 miles from the Cranberry Backcountry Trail System. The town also has amenities like gas and groceries as well as quaint cafes and stores like The Levels Depot, which sells meats, cheeses and other produce and products from local farms, as well as houses the Levels Cafe — a great place to enjoy lunch and a latte.
Appalachian Sport
You can rent bikes, kayaks and canoes from Appalachian Sport and request shuttle services as well. Located off of Route 219 in Marlinton, Appalachian Sport sells everything from fishing and hunting supplies to camping gear and apparel. And if you’re in need of some bike-friendly lodging, Appalachian Sport offers units above the shop.
Greenbrier Bikes
Just across the Greenbrier River on 9th Street in Marlinton, Greenbrier Bikes rents, sells and repairs everything from mountain bikes to beach cruisers and e-bikes. Located just a few yards from the Greenbrier River Trail, Greenbrier Bikes is a one-stop-shop for those looking to grab gear or get a quick fix before heading back out on your biking adventures. It’s an added bonus that Handmade WV, a local market and grab-and-go lunch spot is located just next door.
Dirtbean Cafe & Bike Shop
Located on 2nd Avenue, Dirtbean Cafe is a unique spot where riders can get a repair, shop for gear (or a new bike) and enjoy a delicious meal. As a cafe and bike shop, the Dirtbean is a local favorite for breakfast and lunch with delicious options like the Dakine Bagel, Appalachian Blast and the Dirtbean Dip. With indoor and outdoor dining, meals can be enjoyed outside with your choice of coffee, smoothies wine or cold beer.
Marlinton
The town of Marlinton, which is another Mon Forest Town in Pocahontas County, is a hub for those looking to be close to the outdoor scene. A short drive from most of the trail systems, Marlinton offers a variety of mountain bike-friendly lodging and camping options. Aside from its location and lodging amenities, Marlinton is home to many shops, wonderful restaurants and special events. Rivertown Cafe, located below the Shops at Rivertown, serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as offering their space to live music on the weekends. Other hot spots include Dean’s Den (if the Monte Cristo Sandwich is the special, we highly recommend giving it a try), Dari-Land (indulge in a speciality milkshake), The Greenbrier Grille (a beer and burger by the Greenbrier River, say no more) or Alfredo’s (mouthwatering calzones and gyros to refuel you after a long ride). Rayetta’s Lunchbox, Subway and Dairy Queen also offer options for a quick meal on the run. In the summer and fall months, Marlinton is a buzz with events, live music and festivals. The Pocahontas County Opera House and Discovery Junction host many family-friendly functions, from music performances to “First Fridays” where individuals can enjoy activities, dining specials and music from the green space. For a nightcap, the Mountain Tavern on Main Street is an excellent spot to grab a cold beer or a cocktail.
Cass Scenic Railroad State Park
It is easier to rattle off a list of activities and amenities that Cass doesn’t have, rather than all the amazing ones it does! From rentals, lodging, dining and even steam locomotive excursions, Cass Scenic Railroad State Park is an incredible hub for your mountain biking vacation. Bike rentals can be purchased at the Cass Company Store, where you can choose from mountain bikes or e-bikes. Ride on the Greenbrier River Trail, which begins in Cass, or head nine miles east on Route 66 to Snowshoe Mountain Resort. After a day of hitting the trails, you can enjoy a Mountain Rail Adventures train excursion and historic town tour before settling into your very own Cass Company House.
Elk River Touring Center
More than just a central hub for exploring the area’s trails, Elk River Touring Center and Inn provides everything you need for an unforgettable adventure. Rent a bike, join a guided ride or cast a line with expert-led fly fishing lessons and outings. Their expert staff, with unparalleled knowledge of the area’s trails and fishing holes, are the county’s go-to for crafting authentic, locally-led experiences. Cozy lodging provides the perfect base camp for your adventure, and winter enthusiasts can trade their bikes for skis or snowshoes to conquer the snowy trails.
Ski Barn (Slaty Fork) & Snow Creek (Silver Creek)
With two locations, Ski Barn and Snow Creek offer rentals both at the base of the Snowshoe Mountain Resort in Slaty Fork and at the entrance of Silver Creek. Not only are the two shops well-equipped with rentals, but offer gear, apparel and an array of outfitting, shuttling and guide services for your mountain biking adventure. The expert staff at Ski Barn and Snow Creek have been riding (and skiing) these area trails for years, not only in Pocahontas County, but across the region in neighboring counties, so their expertise is valuable for those seeking the best riding.
Slaty Fork
Slaty Fork is a great place for those seeking to stay close to trails within the Monongahela National Forest as well as near Snowshoe Mountain Resort. Just a short 10-minute drive to Snowshoe Mountain, and 15 minutes to iconic trail systems like Tea Creek, Gauley and the Cheat, Slaty Fork has many lodging options from mountain bike-friendly inns to Airbnbs and cabin rentals.
Snowshoe Mountain Resort
At the epicenter of the Snowshoe Highlands Ride Center is Snowshoe Mountain Resort. Not only home to the Snowshoe Bike Park and Snowshoe Backcountry Trails, but Snowshoe also boasts cozy lodging for overnight stays, delicious mountain-top dining, breweries and shopping. Snowshoe Mountain Resort is perfect for those planning a mountain biking trip that seeks the all-encompassing amenities of a resort.
Greenbrier River Shuttles
Needing shuttle services? Check out Greenbrier River Shuttles, a female-owned shuttle service that offers vehicle shuttling for guests looking to embark on long-distance rides.
Plan Your Mountain Bike Adventure Now
A full list of our mountain biking-friendly lodging can be found here, as well as dining and shopping options. Need help planning your perfect mountain biking trip? Call the Pocahontas County CVB for detailed maps, directions and trip planning tools.