Mountain Biking
Slaty Fork Area
Slaty Fork, West Virginia
Central location to a wide selection of great rides.
by Jeff Cobb, Outdoor Travels
Often referred to as "The Mountain Biking Mecca of the East", there's a big secret in a little town in the heart of the Allegheny Mountains in eastern West Virginia. Some of the best mountain biking in the United States can be found spread somewhat centrally around the tiny town of Slatyfork (pop. 448) in Pocahontas County. Miles and miles (often estimated at over 200) of single track, a little over 100 miles of picturesque rails-to-trails double track on the Greenbrier River Trail (see our review of this great trail) and West Fork Rail Trail, and seemingly endless miles of forest roads can be found in the sprawling Monongahela National Forest, which encompasses 900,000 square miles of public land. Add to that West Virginia State Park property and private areas, and you come up with over 800 miles of trails to ride!
Our biking adventures center around the Elk River Touring Center in Slatyfork. With many choices in lodging, gourmet dinners, friendly staff, shuttle service, bike rentals and volumes of helpful information, they have positioned themselves as a leader in accommodations for mountain bikers.
Trail Snapshot
Trail(s): Over 200 miles of single track, over 100 miles of rails to trails double track and seemingly endless forest roads are all within a short distance from Slatyfork, WV.
Difficulty: Depending on where you actually ride the difficulty can range from beginner to experienced.
Outdoor Travels Rating: 4 out of 5 bikes.
Trails Reviewed
Nuts & Bolts
Directions: 5 miles south of Snowshoe Resort in Slatyfork, WV on Highway 219, 15 miles north of Marlington
Facilities: There are many outfitters and lodging choices in the area. We have used and recommend the folowing for lodging, bike rentals and general help in planning a biking adventure:
Elk River Touring Center
HC 69 Box 7, Slatyfork, WV 26291
Activities: Hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding on the dozen of mixed-use trails; camping (primitive and developed); bird watching; rock climbing; cross-country skiing; and caving.
Admission: none.
Maps &Stuff
Lots of great photos to give you a good idea of what riding here is like!
Help Keep Outdoor Travels A Free Informational Source!
By clicking through the links of these great outfitters when you want to purchase new gear, you'll not only receive the best pricing, you'll also be helping Outdoor Travels pay the bills. We certainly appreciate this simple gesture!
