Find Your Perfect Mountain Bike Trail In The New River Gorge
April 17, 2024The New River Gorge is rapidly becoming a top destination for mountain biking, and for good reason! With a diverse range of trails catering to all skill levels, beautiful scenery and convenient amenities, the Gorge offers an unforgettable experience for every rider.
Discover Diverse Trails
Our region features a unique variety of terrain, from smooth and easy paths to challenging climbs and thrilling descents. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or a curious beginner, the New River Gorge has a trail waiting for you.
Stacked Loops For Every Rider
The Arrowhead Trails are a purpose-built singletrack stacked loop. The trails are mostly smooth, with beginner-friendly options on the inner loops and intermediate trails on the outer loops. Feeling adventurous? Take on the rocky and rooty sections of the Dalton and LeCroy Trails for a technical challenge. The New River Gorge is one of the few national parks in the country with purpose-built mountain bike trails, and the Arrowhead Trails can also be linked with other great singletrack trails nearby for an extended adventure.
National Park Routes
In addition to the Arrowhead Trails, explore a range of trails within the national park. Take in the incredible scenery on the easy 3-mile out-and-back Long Point Trail, which leads you to an iconic view of the New River Gorge Bridge at the end. Cruise along the Kaymoor Trail for easy grades and a glimpse into the area’s history through the ruins scattered along the path. If you feel like conquering a slightly longer route, then the Southside Trail is the perfect 7-mile point-to-point adventure. This trail transitions from wide doubletrack to singletrack, ultimately leading to the historic (almost ghost) town of Thurmond. The Southside Trail winds past remnants of the area’s coal mining past, including coke ovens and old building foundations.
Technical Tracks
A county park near Fayetteville, Wolf Creek Park offers more intermediate and expert riding with built-up features including jumps, log skinnies and technical rock gardens. Warm up on the Marauder Trail, an easy 4-mile rolling loop. Then, progress to the Corona Trail, a popular route with many features and alternate lines. If you are ready to push your limits, navigate Moonshine Hollow’s 3-mile-long rock garden. Once you’ve mastered the loop in one direction, try it the other way for a completely new challenge!
Family-Friendly Rides
Relax on our local rail trails for the perfect family-friendly option. The White Oak Rail Trail is a nearly 8-mile paved trail that runs through the heart of Oak Hill. Park in town and ride a few miles in either direction for a leisurely out-and-back adventure. The Hawks Nest Rail Trail is a scenic 2-mile trail that follows the south side of Mill Creek near Ansted. Take in the views of Mill Creek Falls and the two historic railroad trestles you’ll find along the way.
Fuel Your Ride
The New River Gorge is home to many knowledgeable shops and guides to help you get started on your mountain biking journey. Need a bike rental or some expert advice on which trail to conquer first? These shops have you covered! And if you’re new to mountain biking, you can book a guided tour with a local guide who knows all the ins and outs of the trails.
Request a free travel guide to start planning your mountain biking adventure now!