Gravel & Bikepacking

This 100% gravel loop offers a relaxed ride through the quiet hills surrounding the Cranberry River, making it a great option for beginner to intermediate riders looking for a scenic forest ride. Easily accessible from both Richwood and Cowen, the route begins near the Woodbine Picnic Area, a shaded riverside stop along the Cranberry River that has long served as a portal to recreation in this part of the Monongahela National Forest.

From Woodbine, the route begins by climbing gently away from the river on quiet forest roads toward Bishop Knob, gaining elevation through shaded hardwood and spruce forests. Near the top sits Bishop Knob Campground, a peaceful campground that offers a good place to rest beneath the trees. The steady gravel climb is manageable for most seasoned riders and rewards the effort with cooler air and quiet mountain scenery.

From the ridge, the route descends back toward the Cranberry River, where the character of the ride shifts to a relaxing riverside cruise. The Cranberry is widely known as one of West Virginia’s premier trout streams. Along the way the route passes Big Rock Campground, a scenic riverside stop before continuing downstream to the Woodbine Picnic Area, where the loop began.