George gives us the low-down on these 5 Gorge bike trails

Like mountain biking? I can show ya the best rides in the New River Gorge!
Join me, George of the Gorge, and I’ll show you where to find terrific stacked loops, mining ruins and secluded forest paths.

Saddle up and join the party!

1. Arrowhead Trails

Helmet heads come far and wide for the privilege of these stacked loops, folks!
Let’s see: Arrowhead is riddled with interconnecting trails— 12.8 miles of ‘em. If you’ve got some seasoning, the quick switchbacks will have you popping wheelies for joy. Oh, and did I mention these carefully designed paths meet International Mountain Biking Association standards? Pretty spiffy!
These are my personal favorite routes:

• Dalton Trail: 6.4 total miles of narrow paths whip you past old mountain forests and flowing mountain curves. You’ll need to keep your peepers open on this intermediate trail, though— tight corners and rocky patches demand your attention!
• Adena Trail: If you’re new to the sport, try this 3.1-miler. It’s wider than most and has generous switchbacks. Whenever I want thrills without too much strain, I pedal to Adena.
• LeCroy Trail: Calling all adventurers! This baby treats you to a rhododendron tunnel, twisty paths and a rock bridge. It’s 1.8 miles one way, but feels much longer— and I mean that in a good way.

And now we come to the best part, folks. I’m talking about Arrowhead Bike Farm. It’s where helmet heads wet their whistles. The biergarten is real casual, with strings of lights, craft beer and delicious bratwurst. I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve made a fool of myself over Arrowhead’s soft pretzels, either.
You can also rent mountain bikes and camp on the property. Now that’s pretty swell!

2. Glade Creek Trail

Full disclosure, partners: I happen to think this is the best route of the bunch. Shaggy hemlocks and thick rhododendrons keep things shady, while clear pools and cascades flow every which way. (Well, maybe that’s a slight exaggeration, but you get my drift.)
Glade Creek Trail is 5.6 miles one way, but you’ll be so delighted by the sights, I bet you won’t mind. See if you can find that retired narrow-gauge railroad line while you’re at it!

3. Keeney’s Creek Rail Trail

Mighty C&O locomotives used to charge up this mountainside; are you game? I’d say there’s a 4% grade, so get ready to workout! But there’s plenty to admire, too; look for trestle bridges, mining remnants and cascades along this 3-mile, one-way trip.

4. Little Laurel Trail

Whenever the air gets nippy, I bring my bike to this speedy 2.6-miler. It has downhill paths aplenty, so you’ll get that pink glow on your cheeks. I also make sure a helmet is firmly strapped to my coconut!

5. Kaymoor Trail

Calling all intermediate riders! There are 8.6 miles of adventure for you on this steep downhill ride. If you want to catch your breath, there’s history in these hills. You’ll see mining ruins and signs aplenty, so have a look!
Where do you like to ride in the Gorge?