The best road cycling routes around Elkins

Elkins, nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, offers a diverse road cycling landscape. You'll find a mix of rolling hills, scenic river valleys, and expansive forests. Routes range from relatively flat rail-trails to challenging climbs with significant elevation gain, catering to various preferences.

Yes, there are options for beginners. The Allegheny Highlands Trail is a great choice, offering a scenic rail-trail experience with paved sections. Another easy option is the Roadbike loop from Elkins, which covers about 35.5 km with moderate elevation changes.

Experienced cyclists will find plenty of challenging routes. The region features routes like the 'Elkins Lollypop,' a demanding 55.9-mile route with over 3,200 feet of climbing. The Elkins Roundhouse loop from Elkins also offers a good challenge, covering over 64 km with significant elevation gain through forested areas.

Road cycling around Elkins offers stunning Appalachian Mountain vistas and dense forests. You might encounter picturesque rivers like the Shavers Fork River. Nearby attractions include the iconic Blackwater Falls in Blackwater Falls State Park, and the Bickle Knob Observation Tower, which provides panoramic views of Randolph County. The vast Monongahela National Forest also offers numerous scenic roads.

The spring, summer, and fall months generally offer the best conditions for road cycling in Elkins. Fall is particularly popular for its vibrant foliage, providing a spectacular backdrop for rides. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

For families, the paved sections of the Allegheny Highlands Trail are an excellent choice. This rail-trail provides a relatively flat and safe environment away from vehicle traffic, making it suitable for cyclists of varying ages and skill levels.

Yes, several loop routes are available. The Imboden Knob loop from Randolph County is a moderate 41.4 km loop, and the Scott Lake loop from Beverly is another popular 32.6 km option. The 'Elkins - Parsons Loop' and 'Pleasant Pheasant Loop' also offer scenic circular rides.

Yes, within the Monongahela National Forest, Class 1, 2, and 3 e-bikes are permitted on roads where motorized vehicles are allowed. This provides greater accessibility for exploring the forest's extensive network of roads and former logging routes.

For local expertise, gear, or bike services, you can visit Joey's Bike Shop located in downtown Elkins. They can provide valuable insights and assistance for your cycling adventures in the region.

Elkins stands out due to its unique position as a gateway to the vast Monongahela National Forest, offering a blend of challenging mountain climbs and serene rail-trails. The region's rich logging history, combined with stunning Appalachian vistas and diverse natural features like waterfalls and wilderness areas, creates a distinct and memorable cycling experience.

While this guide focuses on paved road cycling, Elkins is also known for its gravel riding opportunities. The 'Pleasant Pheasant Loop' features gravel roads, and the area even hosts events like 'Woodly's Great Gravel Adventure,' highlighting the scenic backroads and rolling hills suitable for gravel bikes.