Rail Trails

The railway giants of the past have provided a legacy of over 560 miles of West Virginia train tracks, repurposed into exceptional trails for your bike riding adventures. Find your trail from easy and flat, to more challenging climbs. You’ll pass through tunnels and over bridges, stop by historical sites and scenic stops and maybe even find some peace and quiet along the way. Grab a friend and head through some of the most beautiful landscapes that Almost Heaven provides.

Rail Trails in Almost Heaven

Greenbrier River Rail Trail

A fantastic multi-use trail to discover by hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The  Greenbrier River Trail is always a beautiful experience as the trail passes through small towns, crosses 35 bridges, and goes through two tunnels.  Once part of the famed Chesapeake & Ohio Railway, the trail spans 78 miles and takes travelers through Calvin Price State ForestWatoga State Park and Seneca State Forest.

North Bend Rail Trail

Part of the 5,500-mile American Discovery Trail, the  North Bend Rail Trail, spans 72-miles, crosses 36 bridges and passes through ten tunnels. On this trail, which was part of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, hikers and bikers will enjoy passing by beautiful farmland and passing through the “haunted” Silver Run Tunnel.

Allegheny Highlands Trail

Following the original route of the West Virginia Central and Pittsburgh Railway, the Allegheny Highlands Trail (AHT) provides 24.2 miles of the incredible tail and stunning panoramic views. Running from the city of Elkins to the charming mountain town of Thomas beautiful sights and sounds accompany you the entire trail.

Caperton/Mon River/Deckers

Creek Rail Trail

Whether you’re looking for an urban ride or a challenging climb, these trails all connect and provide 48 miles of seamless rail-trail adventure. The Deckers Creek Rail-Trail climbs out of Morgantown for scenic views of the creek, rock outcroppings and farmland. The Caperton Trail is an urban trail with trailside connections to city parks, restaurants, playgrounds and shops.  The Mon River Rail-Trail follows the Monongahela River from the Pennsylvania state line to Pricketts Fort State Park with many river access areas for fishing and paddling.

Wheeling Heritage Trail

The Wheeling Heritage Trail provides 16.5 miles of incredible trail, accompanied by beautiful signs along the way, which provides a self-guided tour of Wheeling’s history. This trail takes you through the city of Wheeling, passes along the east bank of the Ohio River and through the Hempfield Tunnel, which was built in 1904.


How to Start

Hopping on a rail trail is a great way to begin your biking experience. Once you figure out what trail you want to ride, find your local bike shop. Most bike shops offer rentals and are great places to get the inside scoop on trails, landmarks, and other must-sees destinations.  Rail trails are a great way to explore areas by using a different mode of transportation. Find a friend and bring them along for the ride. If you are in it for short trips, long hauls or overnight trips, there is something for you in Almost Heaven.


What to Bring

Your gear list is always going to vary on the weather, time of year, and biking destination. If you are traveling with friends or a local guide, it is always best to consult them on specific gear needs. However, if you’re just looking for the basics, here’s a helpful list that outlines the gear almost every adventurer needs.

  • Bike
  • Helmet
  • Comfortable clothes to bike in
  • Comfortable sneakers or shoes to bike in
  • A water bottle with extra water
  • Extra layers of clothes depending on the weather
  • A rain jacket in case of rainy days
  • A small backpack
  • Sunscreen
  • Insect repellent
Mountain bikes for sale in West Virginia

Season

The best time to ride on any rail trail is April through November. Enjoy the warm weather by exploring during the spring or ride through the beautiful colors falls when the leaves begin to turn. There is no wrong time to go when you are riding on country roads or rail trails.

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