6 Most Bike-Friendly Towns In West Virginia
Thanks to its rugged terrain and magnificent scenery, West Virginia offers some of the most scenic and challenging cycling opportunities in the eastern United States. Often converted from disused rail lines, abandoned logging routes, or even mountain passes and ridgelines, an impressive network of trails provides no end of adventure for cyclists looking to explore West Virginia鈥檚 natural beauty.
From the Allegheny Mountains to the Ohio River, West Virginia's small towns offer a unique blend of charm and outdoor experiences that appeal to cycling enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels. In addition to their warm and welcoming atmosphere, these communities support the sport with dedicated bike paths and trails, along with businesses and clubs that further enhance the local cycling culture. Whether you're an avid mountain biker, a road cyclist, or someone who enjoys a leisurely level ride through scenic landscapes, these six towns are among the most bike-friendly destinations in West Virginia.
Shepherdstown
Shepherdstown is not only the oldest town in West Virginia, it鈥檚 also one of the top places to visit if you鈥檙e a cyclist seeking to mix a little sightseeing with a memorable biking adventure. Founded in 1762 along the Potomac River, this pretty town is known for its charming historic district and proximity to the 185-mile-long C&O Canal Towpath, a popular biking trail that stretches from Washington, D.C., to Cumberland, Maryland. The canal's flat, well-maintained path is ideal for cyclists of all levels, offering scenic views of the river and surrounding woodlands.
Shepherdstown is also home to Shepherd University, where a strong cycling culture is evident through student-led clubs and community events promoting bike safety and awareness. The town鈥檚 commitment to cycling is further reflected in local businesses such as Shepherdstown Pedal & Paddle which offers bike rentals, sales, and guided tours along the canal. The annual Shepherdstown Street Fest also highlights the town's bike-friendly atmosphere, with designated bike routes and parking areas for cyclists.
Davis
The community of Davis is well-known among mountain bikers as a gateway to some of West Virginia's most rugged landscapes. The town is adjacent to the Canaan Valley, Blackwater Falls State Park, and the Monongahela National Forest, all of which feature challenging trails that are well-suited to experienced cyclists. The Davis area is particularly popular for the Allegheny Highlands Trail, a scenic route that provides exhilarating rides and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
In addition to its natural attractions, Davis is home to the annual Canaan MTB Festival which brings together mountain bikers of all skill levels for races, group rides, workshops, and camaraderie. The town's bike-friendly reputation is bolstered by local businesses such as Blackwater Bikes, a full-service shop that caters to both residents and visitors with sales, repairs, and rentals.
Fayetteville
Fayetteville is well known among cycling enthusiasts as the gateway to the New River Gorge. A top destination in West Virginia for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly cyclists, the town鈥檚 proximity to the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve provides easy access to some of the best mountain biking trails in the region, including the renowned Arrowhead Trail System. This 13-mile trail network was designed specifically for mountain biking and features a mix of singletrack and doubletrack trails that wind through the gorge's rugged terrain, offering riders of all skill levels a thrilling experience.
Be sure to check out bike-related local businesses when in Fayetteville, too, such as Arrowhead Bike Farm. A hub for the cycling community, it provides rentals, repairs, guided tours of the area's trails, as well as camping.
Marlinton
Although a relatively small town (its population is just over 900 residents), Marlinton has earned a solid reputation among cyclists. It serves as the southern terminus of the Greenbrier River Trail, a 78-mile rail trail that runs along the Greenbrier River, offering cyclists an easy-to-ride, crushed limestone path that passes through some of the state鈥檚 most stunning scenery. The trail is perfect for long-distance cyclists looking for a peaceful, uninterrupted ride through some of West Virginia's most beautiful landscapes. In addition to the Greenbrier River Trail, Marlinton offers access to several other bike-friendly routes, making it a central hub for cycling in the region.
The town's cycling culture is further supported by events like the Great Greenbrier River Race, a triathlon for teams or individuals that includes a biking segment along the trail. Local businesses like Greenbrier Bikes provide bike rentals and shuttle services making it easier for cyclists to explore the area.
Harpers Ferry
While a well-known destination among sightseers and leisure travelers, Harpers Ferry has in recent years become a prime destination for cyclists. Located at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers, the town is situated on the 2,190-mile-long Appalachian Trail, as well as the C&O Canal Towpath, making it an ideal stopover for long-distance cyclists traveling between Washington, D.C., and Pittsburgh.
The C&O Canal Towpath is a great option for newbies and casual riders and provides a flat, scenic ride along the Potomac River, while the nearby Appalachian Trail offers more challenging terrain for mountain bikers. Be sure to also explore Harpers Ferry's historic district. With its cobblestone streets and preserved 19th-century buildings, it adds a unique charm to any cycling trip. Need a tune-up or rental? Pop into the Harpers Ferry Outfitters Hike and Bike Supplies store which caters to both locals and visitors with rentals, repairs, and cycling gear. Harpers Ferry also hosts several cycling events throughout the year, including some hosted by the Potomac Pedalers' Touring Club, which draws cyclists from across the Mid-Atlantic region.
Charles Town
Up in the eastern panhandle of West Virginia, Charles Town is rightfully proud of its bike-friendly status. The town is home to the Jefferson County Historic Bike Tour, a seven-mile-long self-guided route that takes cyclists through the area's rich Civil War history, including sites like the Jefferson County Courthouse and the Beall-Air mansion. This tour, along with the town's proximity to the C&O Canal Towpath and the Appalachian Trail, provides cyclists with a variety of options for both leisurely rides or more challenging adventures.
Local businesses such as the Eastern Panhandle Bicycle Company play a significant role in encouraging cycling in Charles Town, too, with rentals and services geared toward the needs of cyclists.
The Final Word
The best of West Virginia鈥檚 small towns offer a unique blend of history, scenic beauty, and outdoor adventure, making them ideal destinations for cyclists. From the flat, riverside trails of Shepherdstown and Harpers Ferry to the rugged mountain paths near Davis and Fayetteville, these towns provide plenty of fun cycling experiences suitable for all levels of riders. Add to this mix local businesses, cycling clubs, and annual events that cater to cyclists, and these six of the most bike-friendly towns in West Virginia are well worth exploring on two wheels.
