Mon Forest Towns Gravel Network
With thousands of miles of winding forest roads cutting through the Monongahela National Forest, gravel biking here means chasing mountain streams, climbing remote ridgelines, and disappearing into some of West Virginia’s wildest backcountry. The Mon Forest Towns’ Gravel and Bikepacking Route Network distills over a million acres of public land into 60+ detailed ride guides, complete with waypoints for water, overnight stays, scenic views, and places to eat along the way. Plan your next ride at monforesttowns.org/gravel
From Elkins, riders can explore a wide range of terrain, from relaxed rail-trail cruising to challenging mountain loops. A family-friendly outing follows the Allegheny Highlands Rail Trail, a smooth former railroad corridor that glides through forests and farmland toward historic rail towns along the valley. Intermediate riders can enjoy the Pleasant Pheasant Loop, a quiet gravel ride along the wildlife-rich corridor of Shavers Fork, where birdlife and pastoral scenery define the experience.
For those seeking a bigger mountain adventure, the Glady Loop climbs to the panoramic Bickle Knob Fire Tower before traversing high ridges along Middle Mountain Road and descending through historic timber communities in the West Fork valley.
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