Nothing is better than a finely crafted microbrew after the rush of hugging mountains on 2 wheels all day long.
Check out these West Virginia towns for the best of both worlds: craft beer and biking all in one place:
1. Davis
Davis sits right on the edge of Blackwater Falls State Park and near Canaan Valley, giving you access to tons of mountain biking trails. Try the Blackwater Canyon Trail, which was used to haul coal and lumber through the canyon.
Afterward, take your pick of one of 3 local breweries in the area: Mountain State Brewing Company (the state’s largest brewery), the locally minded Blackwater Brewing Company or the hop-heavy Stumptown Ales.
2. Fayetteville
The New River Gorge offers sweeping views of the Mountain State, and what better way to explore those mountains than by bike? Try the Long Point Trail, which culminates in an open view of the New River Gorge Bridge, which spans the entire gorge. (The last .2 mile is hiking only.)
Afterward, swing by Bridge Brew Works for a Belgian-style beer to cap off the day. Their hours can vary, but you can always try them on tap at local restaurants like Pies ‘n Pints and Secret Sandwich Society.
3. Parkersburg
Mountwood Park is home to almost 30 miles of singletrack mountain biking, which will take you through valleys, ravines and ridgetops surrounding a 50-acre lake.
Reward yourself with a craft beer from the state’s oldest brewery: North End Tavern & Brewery, known to locals as “The NET.”
4. Morgantown
The Mon River Rail Trails include 48 miles perfect for all types of bikes. The Caperton Trail has a more urban feel with city parks and shops, while the Mon River Trail winds through a river valley. The Deckers Creek Trail will give you more of a challenge with climbs through rhododendron and hemlock groves.
3 breweries perfectly complement the 3 trails: Mountain State Brewing Company, Morgantown Brewing Company and Chestnut Brew Works.
5. Lewisburg
The Greenbrier River Trail is a beautiful, smooth rail-trail that passes through countryside and river valley for 78 miles. Also honoring the namesake Greenbrier River, Greenbrier Valley Brewing Company is just outside of Lewisburg.
Stop by for a refreshing Mothman Black IPA (named one of the best brews in the nation, and definitely one of the best versions of the style you’ll ever sip) or Wild Trail Pale Ale.
Which town is your favorite bike + brew combo?