The Allegheny Highlands Trail (AHT) is a 31-mile haven for non-motorized recreation. It offers exceptional scenery, from charming small towns and rural farmland to densely wooded forests and sweeping riverside vistas. As you traverse the trail, you’ll discover an inviting blend of natural beauty and historical significance, perfect for hikers, bikers, and nature enthusiasts alike.
The AHT winds through Randolph and Tucker counties, providing a continuous 26-mile stretch from Elkins to Hendricks and an additional 5-mile section near Davis. Along the trail, country roads create loops that offer pleasant bike rides and allow exploration of the surrounding countryside. For those seeking a more rugged adventure, the adjacent Monongahela National Forest beckons with its woodsy single tracks, ideal for mountain bikers and hikers.
The AHT’s journey began in 2001 with the completion of the first 21-mile section from Elkins in Randolph County to Parsons in Tucker County. In 2004, the WVDOH extended the trail by an additional 2.63 miles, connecting the Monongahela National Forest’s Nursery Bottom at Bretz to Hendricks in Tucker County.
Trail construction continued through the City of Parsons in 2006, adding another mile to the AHT and connecting essential sections of the trail. The City of Parsons’ acquisition of the historic Western Maryland Railroad Bridge in 2009 marked another significant milestone. The bridge was refurbished and decked for trail use.
The Black Fork River bridge in Parsons was replaced by the WVDOH in 2010, and the subsequent trail construction from the railroad bridge through Mill Race Park to the new bridge connected existing trail sections. This created nearly 25 continuous miles of scenic rail trail from Elkins to Hendricks.
A separate 5-mile section of the trail was completed north of Thomas near Davis in 2017, thanks to ongoing efforts associated with Corridor H. The long-awaited Elkins Rail Trail Connector project from Highland Park to the Elkins Depot added one more mile, completing the trail in Randolph County. Today, a total of 31 miles of trails in Randolph and Tucker counties are available for outdoor enthusiasts to explore.
Cycling on the Allegheny Highlands Trail offers a fantastic way to explore the scenic beauty of West Virginia, from wooded forests to sweeping riverside vistas. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone, please follow these important guidelines:
By following these tips, you can help preserve the beauty of the Allegheny Highlands Trail while ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all trail users. Happy cycling!
