The best road cycling routes around Morgantown

Morgantown offers a diverse range of road cycling experiences. You'll find extensive rail trail networks, such as the Mon River Rail-Trail System, which includes the Caperton Trail and Mon River Trail, providing relatively flat, paved, or crushed limestone paths. Additionally, there are scenic secondary roads in Monongalia and Preston Counties that offer more traditional road cycling with varied terrain and challenging climbs through rural landscapes.

Yes, Morgantown has options for easier rides. The Caperton Trail, part of the Mon River Rail-Trail System, is a 6-mile paved section through Morgantown and Star City, offering an urban cycling experience with easy access to parks. For a slightly longer, tranquil ride, consider the Hopewell Lake loop, an easy 12.4-mile route, or the Roadbike loop from Honey Brook, an easy 15.5-mile path through rural settings.

For a more challenging ride, the Deckers Creek Trail climbs approximately 1,000 feet over 19 miles, winding through rhododendron groves and forests. Beyond the rail trails, areas north of Morgantown in Monongalia County and into Greene County, Pennsylvania, are known for their secondary roads with challenging terrain. Routes like the Brandywine Creek loop from West Nantmeal Township (25.8 miles) or the Roadbike loop from West Nantmeal Township (38.5 miles) offer moderate difficulty with significant elevation changes.

The region is rich in natural beauty. Along the Mon River Rail-Trail, you'll find scenic river views, diverse wildflowers, and occasional waterfalls. Nearby attractions include Scotts Run Lake, the WVU Core Arboretum, and Hazel Ruby McQuain Riverfront Park. For breathtaking views, Coopers Rock State Forest is a short drive away, and Dorsey's Knob Park offers panoramic views of Morgantown from Sky Rock.

Yes, many routes are designed as loops. Examples include the easy Hopewell Lake loop, the Roadbike loop from Honey Brook, and the more moderate Warwick Furnace loop from Great Marsh Institute. These circular routes allow you to start and end at the same point, making logistics easier.

The road cycling routes around Morgantown are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 10 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, from the peaceful rail trails to the challenging country roads, and the beautiful natural scenery that enhances the riding experience.

The Mon River Rail-Trail, which meanders along the wooded river valley, offers scenic river views and occasional waterfalls. Additionally, nearby Valley Falls State Park features four waterfalls and large boulders, making it a beautiful spot to explore, though it's more for hiking than direct cycling access.

The Caperton Trail runs directly through Morgantown, providing urban access. While specific public transport connections directly to all trailheads might vary, the central location of parts of the Mon River Rail-Trail System within Morgantown makes them relatively accessible. For detailed information on local public transport, you might check the Morgantown city website.

Parking is generally available at various access points along the rail trail system. For instance, the Caperton Trail and Mon River Trail have access points within Morgantown and Star City, often near parks or public facilities. For routes venturing into more rural areas, specific parking details would be best checked for individual trailheads or starting points.

Yes, the region has some historical points of interest. While cycling, you might pass by areas with historical significance. For example, nearby attractions include Historic Poole Forge, Joanna Furnace Historic Site, and Poole Forge Covered Bridge. These sites offer a glimpse into the area's past and can be interesting stops during your ride.

Among the featured routes, the Roadbike loop from West Nantmeal Township is one of the longest, covering approximately 38.5 miles (62 km). The Mon River Rail-Trail System itself offers a combined 48 miles of pathways, allowing for extended rides by connecting different sections.

While many routes offer scenic views along river valleys and through forests, for panoramic vistas, Dorsey's Knob Park is known for Sky Rock, which provides expansive views of Morgantown and the surrounding landscape. Coopers Rock State Forest, though a short drive, also offers breathtaking views of the Cheat River Gorge from its main overlook.