Greenbrier River Trail Closures
Forest Road 76 & 86 Closure
Ride Guide
The Mon Circuit 440 is a more focused version of the full Mon Forest circuit, linking 8 of the 12 Mon Forest Towns through the core of the region. At 441 miles with 36,810 feet of climbing, it delivers a slightly lower climbing intensity than the full route (vs. 54,605’ over 594 miles), while maintaining the rugged, backcountry character that defines riding in the Mon.
Characterized by long ridgeline gravel roads, punchy climbs through historic gaps, and extended stretches of remote forest, the route stays entirely west of the Eastern Continental Divide. It bypasses the eastern high points and outlying regions—Cowen, Spruce Knob, Seneca Rocks, Franklin, Dolly Sods, and Petersburg—in favor of a more cohesive loop centered on the Greenbrier River Valley, Cranberry Wilderness, Middle Mountain, Canaan Valley, and surrounding highlands.
Railroad and timber heritage are ever-present, with former rail grades tracing quiet valley corridors and towns like Richwood, Durbin, and Marlinton reflecting the region’s industrial past. Expect deep backcountry immersion, cool mountain air, abundant water, and frequent opportunities for dispersed camping, along with resupply and lodging in each Mon Forest Town along the way.
Beginning in Elkins, the route follows a streamlined version of the southern and central Mon, linking ridgelines and river valleys into a continuous loop that prioritizes unpaved riding and minimizes paved connectors—ideal for riders seeking the essence of the Mon in a shorter, more gravel-focused format.
For riders seeking the complete Mon Forest experience, the Mon Circuit 600 expands the route to 594 miles, connecting all 12 Mon Forest Towns and incorporating the eastern highlands, including Spruce Knob, Seneca Rocks, and the Potomac headwaters. This version features more climbing (54,605’) and a higher proportion of paved connectors (54% unpaved vs. ~66% on the 440), offering a broader but more demanding tour of the region.
Ride Tips
- Many sections of this route exceed 4,000 feet, with significantly cooler temperatures than the valleys below. In shoulder seasons, freezing temperatures and snow are not uncommon.
- This is a true mixed-surface route. Gravel roads form the backbone, with shorter segments of singletrack (green) and 4x4 doubletrack (orange) throughout. Route colors also indicate rail trails (blue) and busier paved roads (dark gray). Most bikepackers will be happiest on 50mm (2.0–2.2”) tires. Riding on 40mm tires is possible, but expect additional hike-a-bike (HAB) on rougher sections.
- Steep, sustained climbs are a defining feature of this route, with grades frequently exceeding 10%. Low, MTB-style gearing is strongly recommended. While a mountain bike isn’t required, a hardtail—or a gravel bike with a similarly low gear range (Tour Divide-style setup)—will provide a more comfortable and efficient ride.
- Natural water sources are plentiful, including streams and roadside springs. Check the route map POIs for reliable locations and carry a water filtration system.
- Dispersed camping is widely available across the Mon, along with private campgrounds, hotels, guesthouses, and B&Bs in and near towns. Refer to route POIs and resupply notes for spacing and availability.
- While this version reduces paved connectors, some busier road segments remain. Ride defensively—wear bright colors and consider lights and/or radar for visibility and safety.
