The best MTB trails in Pocahontas County

Pocahontas County offers an extensive network of mountain bike trails. Our guide features 15 curated routes, ranging from easy to difficult. More broadly, the region boasts over 375 miles of trails open to bikes, including those within the Monongahela National Forest and dedicated bike parks like Snowshoe.

You'll find a diverse range of terrain, from rugged mountain singletrack with significant elevation changes to more gentle, scenic rail trails. The difficulty varies greatly, with options for all skill levels. For instance, the IMBA Epic Trail is a difficult route featuring rugged mountain terrain, while the Greenbrier River Trail offers a mostly flat, scenic ride.

Yes, Pocahontas County has several options for beginners and families. The Greenbrier River Trail is an excellent choice, offering a mostly flat, scenic ride along a former railway line. Additionally, the Mower Basin Trail System, reclaimed from a former strip mine, provides stunning views and trails suitable for beginner and intermediate singletrack and gravel riders.

Expert riders seeking a challenge will find plenty in Pocahontas County. The Tea Creek Trail System, including routes like Distilled Tea Creek loop, offers over 44 miles of rugged terrain with rock gardens, steep climbs, and rapid descents. Snowshoe Bike Park also provides exhilarating downhill singletrack and has hosted UCI Mountain Bike World Series events.

Pocahontas County is rich in natural beauty. You can explore destinations like the Cass Scenic Railroad State Park, known for its historic steam trains, or the unique bog ecosystem of Cranberry Glades Botanical Area. The Monongahela National Forest also features scenic spots like Falls of Hills Creek with its three waterfalls, and Gaudineer Knob offers stunning views from an untouched red spruce forest.

Generally, dogs are permitted on trails within the Monongahela National Forest and state parks in Pocahontas County, provided they are kept on a leash. However, specific rules can vary, especially in designated wilderness areas or private bike parks like Snowshoe. It's always best to check the specific regulations for the trail or park you plan to visit.

The best season for mountain biking in Pocahontas County is typically from late spring through early fall (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally favorable, and trails are clear of snow and ice. Fall offers particularly stunning foliage. Some higher elevation trails may open later in spring and close earlier in fall due to weather conditions.

Yes, many trails in Pocahontas County are designed as loops or can be combined to form circular routes. For example, the Snowshoe Bike Park – Slide Run East Trailhead loop from Snowshoe is a popular circular route within the bike park. The Tea Creek Trail System also offers various loop options for different skill levels.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, from exhilarating downhill runs to serene rail trails, and the stunning natural beauty of the Monongahela National Forest. The variety of trails catering to all skill levels is also frequently highlighted.

Public transport options directly to trailheads in Pocahontas County are generally limited due to the rural nature of the region. Most visitors rely on personal vehicles to access the various trail systems and parks. Some resorts, like Snowshoe, may offer shuttle services within their property or to specific trail access points.

Mountain biking on trails within the Monongahela National Forest typically does not require a specific permit, though some areas may have day-use fees for parking or specific facilities. State parks like Watoga and Droop Mountain Battlefield may have entrance fees. Snowshoe Bike Park operates on a lift-ticket system. It's advisable to check with the specific park or trail system for any current fee requirements.

Amenities are available in various towns and resorts throughout Pocahontas County. Snowshoe Mountain Resort offers a range of accommodation, dining, and bike rental services. Towns like Marlinton, Cass, and Hillsboro also provide local cafes, restaurants, and lodging options. For more information on local attractions and amenities, you can visit WV Tourism's guide to Pocahontas County.