Gravel biking
in Franklin

ROUTES โ‡ฃ
0 Gravel
TOTAL DISTANCE โ†’
0 MIles
ELEVATION GAIN โ†‘
0 Ft

From Franklin, riders can explore everything from gentle farm-country loops to some of the most demanding climbs in the Allegheny Mountains. A shorter ride circlesย Flint Knobย and the quiet valleys ofย Thorn Creek, where gravel farm lanes pass working pastures and historic homesteads. An intermediate route loops through theย Buffalo Hillsย and the rural community ofย Upper Tract, linking trout streams, orchards, and small country stores along scenic backroads.

For riders seeking bigger adventure, the most challenging route climbs toward Sweetwater Farm Trail Centerย and the high ridges of theย George Washington National Forest, culminating in the legendary ascent ofย Reddish Knob.

Franklin Routes

All
Day Ride
Overnighter
Multi-Day
A bicycle lies on a dirt path in a lush, green landscape with tall trees and a prominent tree in the center. The scene conveys tranquility and solitude.
Day Ride
44.1

ย MI

DISTANCE โ†’

4693

ย FT

ELEVATION โ†‘

12

ย %

GRAVEL

Rolling farm country loop from Franklin between North Fork Mountain and the Virginia state line, with a trout hatchery, Appalachian spirits, and a small-town finish.
A winding road curves through a lush, green forest with hints of yellow autumn leaves. The scene feels serene and inviting, with dappled sunlight.
Day Ride
28.8

ย MI

DISTANCE โ†’

2561

ย FT

ELEVATION โ†‘

7

ย %

GRAVEL

Gentle lollipop loop from Franklin along Thorn Creek and quiet farm lanes, with a worthwhile detour to Dry Run Spirits Distillery and frontier history at Dahmer.
A serene forest path covered in fallen leaves, bordered by lush green trees and old wooden fences, evoking a peaceful, autumnal atmosphere.
Day Ride | Overnighter
49.9

ย MI

DISTANCE โ†’

5781

ย FT

ELEVATION โ†‘

65

ย %

GRAVEL

From the Sweetwater Farm Trail Center, scale Reddish Knob's legendary gravel death climb with panoramic views across the Shenandoah Valley and WV highlands.
Aerial view of a lush, forested mountain landscape in autumn with a prominent rocky cliff. Vibrant fall foliage colors blend with green, conveying tranquility.
Overnighter
56.3

ย MI

DISTANCE โ†’

6932

ย FT

ELEVATION โ†‘

41

ย %

GRAVEL

Demanding MTB overnighter combining the North Fork Mountain's exposed ridgeline, cliff-top views above Seneca Rocks, and a high-speed Chimney Top descent.
Cyclist in red rides uphill on a rural road, surrounded by lush green hills and a distant farmhouse under a partly cloudy sky, evoking serenity.
Ride to Mon
51.5

ย MI

DISTANCE โ†’

6044

ย FT

ELEVATION โ†‘

50

ย %

GRAVEL

Gravel connector from Harrisonburg through Shenandoah Valley farmland and the Allegheny Front, climbing Long Run Road to the Virginia state line before descending into Franklin.
A weathered sign on a forest trail reads "Entering George Washington National Forest." Sunlight filters through tall trees, creating a serene atmosphere.
Day Ride | Overnighter
67.9

ย MI

DISTANCE โ†’

8478

ย FT

ELEVATION โ†‘

43

ย %

GRAVEL

Challenging gravel loop from Franklin climbing to Reddish Knob on the WV/VA border, with sweeping Appalachian views, stream crossings, and Cold War history along the way.
A dark, arched stone tunnel entrance surrounded by lush green moss and vines. The pathway leading in is gravel, creating a mysterious and tranquil atmosphere.
Ride to Mon
94.9

ย MI

DISTANCE โ†’

8154

ย FT

ELEVATION โ†‘

38

ย %

GRAVEL

Amtrak-accessible gravel connector from Charlottesville through the Shenandoah Valley and Blue Ridge Tunnel to Sweetwater Farm, tracing the historic Parkersburg Turnpike into West Virginia.
A lush forest surrounds a tranquil river, reflecting the dense greenery. A lone cyclist crosses a narrow bridge, adding a sense of serenity and exploration.
Multi-Day
594.4

ย MI

DISTANCE โ†’

54749

ย FT

ELEVATION โ†‘

54

ย %

GRAVEL

The Mon Circuit 600 links all twelve Mon Forest Towns in a grand bikepacking tour with 50,000 feet of climbing, three high peaks, and remote Appalachian gravel throughout.

Parking in Franklin

Overnight parking is available at Franklin City Park (Confederate Rd) and is recommended. The showers at the adjacent Franklin Town Pool can be used (donations appreciated) when the pool is open. Always follow local guidance and signage when parking.

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