Ride Guide
This route links Blacksburg, Virginia to White Sulphur Springs along the southern edge of the Monongahela National Forest, weaving together a series of scenic ridge climbs and backcountry corridors. Leaving town, the route follows portions of the Huckleberry Trail greenway before climbing into the Pandapas Pond trail system, where rugged forest roads and trails lead to a crossing of the Appalachian Trail at Rocky Gap. From here, the route traverses Potts Mountain into Waiteville, transitioning into quieter terrain.
The most sustained climb comes at Hanging Rock Observatory, where the route enters West Virginia. Beyond this high point, the character shifts to mellower riding, following valleys north on mostly paved country roads before a final push around the eastern flank of Kate’s Mountain into White Sulphur Springs.
For riders looking to avoid the more rugged sections around Pandapas Pond, an alternate western alignment is provided via waypoints. This option offers a comparable travel time with less technical riding.
Caution: Use care on the brief westbound descent along US-460 near Newport, where traffic speeds can be high.
Route by Jonny Ramirez Photography, Blacksburg VA
