Ride Guide
This challenging 30-mile loop from White Sulphur Springs climbs into the rugged ridges surrounding Kate’s Mountain, blending quiet country roads, gravel descents, and sweeping views across the Greenbrier Valley. The route is the official Kate’s Mountain Challenge 30-mile course, created by local organizer Shawn Romano.
Leaving town, riders climb steadily toward Greenbrier State Forest, one of West Virginia’s oldest state forests and a longtime recreation destination known for its hiking trails, camping, and panoramic overlooks above the valley. From the ridgeline, the route drops toward the small community of Allegheny on a scenic gravel descent through quiet farmland and forest.
The ride also passes through a region deeply shaped by railroads and tourism. White Sulphur Springs rose to national prominence in the 1800s as visitors arrived via the Chesapeake & Ohio Railroad to stay at the legendary Greenbrier Resort, still one of the most famous destinations in Appalachia. Beneath the resort lies the once-secret Cold War congressional bunker, built to house the U.S. Congress in the event of nuclear war. Nearby, the historic Amtrak station continues to serve long-distance passenger trains and has become known for its elaborate Christmas decorations sponsored by the Greenbrier and the local community.
Today the town has become increasingly bike-friendly, with riders often gathering at the beautifully restored Schoolhouse Hotel, a former elementary school turned boutique lodging that now serves as a hub for cyclists exploring the surrounding mountains.
White Sulphur Springs is accessible by Amtrak’s Cardinal line, though bicycles are currently not permitted to be loaded or unloaded at this station. Local advocates and regional partners continue working to change this policy and expand bike-train access to the Greenbrier Valley.
