West Fork River/Ralph S. LaRue Trail  Fairmont, WV

16 miles, paved, easy/moderate |  For a nice scenic ride, track along the 200 forested acres of West Fork riverfront from Fairmont to Shinnston. You’ll pedal past rolling farmland, across rail bridges, and past river access points. It’s a quaint cycle you can take slowly to enjoy the peaceful environment. Hop off the trail and explore one of the many small towns along the trail, too. (Trail heads make a convenient stop at Enterprise, Worthington, Monongah and Shinnston.)

[TIP:] Stop at Worthington Park or in Monongah for a picnic and restroom break.

MCTrail to Mon River Trail 106 Overfort Ln, Fairmont, WV 26554

18 miles, paved, easy | The Mon River Trail and MCTrail meet at Pricketts Fort State Park, a living history museum, where you can meet 18th Century characters and explore the and recreated frontier fort. You can also rent bikes  to enjoy either of the 2 paths:

McTrail is an easy 3-mile ride. Pedal a paved path alongside Prickett’s Creek, following the old tracks toward Fairmont, even passing through a lighted tunnel. You can spot lots of scenery and wildlife along the way.

If you are feeling more adventurous, the smooth, crushed limestone Mon River Trail meanders for nearly 18 miles along a former CSX rail line to the paved Caperton Trail at the southern edge of Morgantown. The trail lazily winds through a wooded river valley with many scenic river views, occasional waterfalls and a variety of wildflowers in the spring and autumn.

[ALSO SEE:]

Downtown Fairmont Fairmont, WV

Before you begin your cycling tour, fuel up with some old-fashioned hot dogs or authentic Italian, and browse the unique shops, historic architecture and small-town charm.

The Wharf District Main Street Morgantown, WV

The Mon River Trail connects to the Caperton Trail, which takes you right to the heart of Morgantown’s revived warehouse district, now a hotspot for dining, shopping and entertainment. Stop into the Mountain State Brewery for a drink and a meal.
[REST:] After you return from your ride to Morgantown, finish up with dinner at Heston Farm Winery and Distillery, and settle in for the night in Fairmont, WV. Rest up for some more intense terrain tomorrow!

Download a Trail Map here. 

Valley Falls State Park  720 Valley Falls Rd, Fairmont, WV 26554

Gear up your mountain bike and head to Valley Falls State Park for a ride along the rolling mountain terrain, past tucked-away waterfalls and untouched wilderness. The 2-mile Deer Trail is a moderate ride, both level and slightly uphill. Most of the trails swoop up and down the mountainside, so prepare for a wild ride! Stop for a picnic at the riverfront near the falls, and watch kayakers paddle over the edge.

[PLAN AROUND:]

Valley Falls Challenge 720 Valley Falls Rd, Fairmont, WV 26554

Race through the mountain forests in the annual Valley Falls Challenge held in the fall. Choose your level: beginner (8 miles), sport (13 miles) or expert (18 miles), and fly along the fiery fall trails to win great prizes. Proceeds benefit local charities each year.