The best road cycling routes around Valley Grove

The Hempfield Tunnel loop from Greggsville offers a moderate 42.5-mile (68.5 km) road cycling adventure, featuring 2302 feet (701 metres) of elevation gain over approximately 3 hours and 18 minutes. You'll cycle through varied terrain, from peaceful wooded corridors to scenic river views, with the historic Hempfield Tunnel and the impressive Hempfield Viaduct as standout landmarks. It's a ride that rewards cyclists who enjoy a blend of natural beauty and industrial heritage.

To tackle this route, ensure you have good fitness, as the moderate difficulty includes rolling hills and some challenging climbs. While the trail is mostly paved, some sections of the broader Wheeling Heritage Trails system, which this loop utilizes, have noted cracks and bumps, so be prepared for a few less-than-smooth patches. Starting from Greggsville, it's wise to check local trail conditions before heading out.

This loop is a key part of the Wheeling Heritage Trails, preserving the region's rich railroad history. The 492-foot-long Hempfield Tunnel, built in 1904, is a unique, dimly lit passage, rumored to be haunted, while the 1857 Hempfield Viaduct is an architectural marvel. The route offers a fascinating glimpse into Wheeling's past, combining historical sites with natural river and valley scenery.

The Hempfield Tunnel loop from Wheeling University offers a diverse road cycling experience, blending urban landscapes with wooded river corridors. You'll pedal alongside the Ohio River, catching views of barge traffic and the Pike Island Locks and Dam, before diving into the dimly lit, 470-foot-long Hempfield Tunnel and crossing the historic stone-arch Hempfield Viaduct. The scenery constantly shifts, providing a rich visual journey through Wheeling's heritage.

This moderate route covers 33.8 miles (54.3 km) with 2558 feet (780 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 3 hours and 8 minutes. While much of the bikeway is remarkably level, expect some rolling hills and gentle climbs, with occasional cracks and bumps on the pavement. Cyclists with good fitness will find this a rewarding ride, but be mindful of surface conditions.

This trail is a key part of the Wheeling Heritage Trails, a system built on former railroad beds, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and industrial history. You'll pass historical signs detailing Wheeling's past, and even have the chance to see the iconic Wheeling Suspension Bridge. It's a great way to explore the region's historical context while enjoying a substantial road cycling workout.

The Pike Island Pool loop offers a fascinating contrast for road cyclists, starting amidst the manicured beauty and rolling hills of Oglebay Park before descending to the flat, paved expanse of the Ohio River Trail. You'll cycle past resort attractions and wooded sections, then transition to river views, industrial landmarks like the Pike Island Locks and Dam, and even downtown Wheeling. This moderate 20.1-mile (32.4 km) route, with its 1249 feet (381 metres) of elevation gain, provides a diverse experience that takes about 1 hour and 38 minutes.

To tackle this route, you'll typically start from the Oglebay Ski and Snowboard Area, where parking is available. Be prepared for the significant elevation changes and the need to navigate public roads with traffic when connecting the park to the river trail. Planning your ride for off-peak traffic hours is advisable to ensure a safer and more enjoyable experience on this unique loop.

What makes this route particularly notable is its ability to combine two vastly different cycling environments: the challenging, scenic park roads of Oglebay and the accessible, historical riverfront pathway. It's a testament to the varied landscapes around Wheeling, WV, offering an urban escape along the Ohio River while also providing the tranquility of a resort park. This combination makes it one of the best road cycling loops near Wheeling WV for those seeking both challenge and diverse scenery.