MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — Visit Mountaineer Country Convention and Visitors Bureau (VMC) has announced a groundbreaking project to transform the region into a premier destination for gravel cycling and outdoor adventure- Mountaineer Gravel.

The project is the largest taken on by VMC in the last eight years and Mountaineer Gravel is expected to be a key addition in making our region a leader in outdoor tourism. The project will collaborate with experts such as David Landis, owner of Village-to-Village Trails (V2V Trails), West Virginia University’s Brad and Alys Smith Outdoor Economic Development Collaborative (OEDC), and numerous local trail and outdoor recreation
partners.

The project already consists of 28 existing world-class mixed-surface cycling routes spanning over 1,000 miles of public property across the VMC service area.

“We’ve long recognized the unmatched outdoor assets of North Central West Virginia and the need to showcase these assets in an impactful way,” said Susan Riddle, president and CEO of VMC. “With David Landis’ expertise, we finally have a packaged collection of gravel biking routes that appeal to cyclists of all levels and highlight the region’s scenic landscapes, local businesses and hidden gems.”

The 28 trails, ranging from 5 to 75 miles and featuring rugged terrain and significant elevation, challenge cyclists with a wide range of features that provide anything from a scenic day ride to a challenging bikepacking adventures. The routes have surfaces that vary from gravel roads, dirt trails, and primitive roads, capturing the natural beauty of the Appalachian region while also creating new economic opportunities for local communities.

Landis, an internationally trusted voice in the gravel biking community and played an instrumental role in the project’s development. Through working with local users and his expertise he has identified the best trails in the area and curated them into seamless itineraries with a local lore. His work also included comprehensive documentation, high-quality photography, and GPS mapping, ensuring a user-friendly experience for riders.

Mountaineer Gravel routes are now available on the Ride with GPS platform, where cyclists can access detailed maps, route information, and connect with a community of riders. Seven regional hubs, including Morgantown, Rowlesburg, and Grafton, serve as starting points, offering key services such as lodging, dining, and local attractions.

The project is already drawing significant attention, and VMC already has plans to add routes and infrastructure improvements to enhance the visitor experience. The Mountaineer Gravel project aligns with VMC’s broader mission to attract more visitors to the region, create new economic opportunities, and promote sustainability through responsible tourism practices.

“This project is not just about tourism – it’s about quality of life and creating lasting, positive change for our communities,” said Riddle. “By enhancing and promoting our outdoor recreation assets, we’re providing high-quality experiences and contributing to the halo effect of tourism, where our surrounding areas will benefit from this investment.”

The launch of the Mountaineer Gravel project is a continuation of a multi-year commitment from VMC to develop and maintain these routes which will ultimately consist of 35 trails and eight trailheads. Future initiatives include a bikepacking race in 2025 and sponsorship of the West Virginia Gravel Series. With these efforts, VMC is laying the foundation for a sustainable and prosperous outdoor tourism economy in West Virginia.

 

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