The Allegheny Highlands Trail (AHT) is a 31-mile rail-trail in the Potomac Highlands of West Virginia, following the original route of the West Virginia Central and Pittsburgh Railway built by Henry Gassaway Davis in 1884. It includes 26 continuous miles from Elkins to Hendricks, plus a separate 5-mile segment near the town of Davis in Tucker County. The trail passes through rolling farmland, forested mountain corridors, and small Appalachian communities — and it remains one of the quieter long rail-trails in the eastern United States.
The Route: Elkins to Hendricks
The main 26-mile segment starts at the southern end in downtown Elkins, adjacent to the West Virginia Railroad Museum. From there, the trail heads north to the Highland Park trailhead and gradually climbs for roughly 15 miles, skirting Pheasant and Polecat Knob mountains. This stretch is the heart of the trail — open agricultural views backed by mountain ridgelines, with plenty of spots worth stopping for photos.
Past the mountain section, the trail descends more steeply toward Parsons, a small town where you can break for food at several restaurants along a short road section. The trail crosses the Shavers Fork River on the restored Western Maryland Railroad bridge, continues through Mill Race Park, and connects to a bike lane across the Black Fork River bridge. The final stretch is paved and follows the Black Fork River into Hendricks, where the trail ends at the junction of Main and 3rd Streets.
A separate 5-mile segment runs north from the town of Davis between Synergy Highway and East Portal Road. This section is not directly connected to the main trail.
Trail Surface and Difficulty
The AHT is a rail-trail, which means the grades are generally gentle — sustained but never steep. The surface alternates between paved sections and compacted gravel or dirt. A hybrid or mountain bike is the best choice; road bikes will struggle on the unpaved portions. The Parsons-to-Hendricks section is fully paved and suitable for road bikes, strollers, and wheelchair users on most stretches.
Heading south to north (Elkins to Parsons), expect a gradual 15-mile climb followed by a steeper descent. Many riders prefer to start in Elkins and set up a shuttle at Parsons or Hendricks, taking advantage of the net elevation drop heading north. The climb is manageable for most recreational cyclists, but it is sustained — plan for it to take longer than the mileage alone suggests.
The trail is well suited to families, casual riders, and anyone looking for a scenic half-day or full-day ride rather than an intense workout. If you’re looking for more rail-trail and hiking options in the eastern mountains, the region has plenty to offer.
Trailheads and Parking
There are seven parking areas and trailheads along the main 26-mile route:
Elkins (southern terminus) — The trail begins at the Elkins Depot Welcome Center on Railroad Avenue in downtown Elkins. The Highland Park trailhead is about a mile north, next to the Division of Highways District 8 Headquarters on US 219. Gilman, Kerens, Montrose, and Porterwood — Mid-trail access points, all with parking. These are useful for shorter out-and-back rides or for breaking the trail into sections. Hendricks (northern terminus) — Located at the junction of Main Street and 3rd Street. Follow US 219 north from Elkins to reach it.
Current Trail Closure
A section of the AHT between Mile 16 and Mile 17 is closed due to construction for the Corridor H highway project south of Parsons in Tucker County. As of early 2026, there is no confirmed reopening date. This closure also affects nearby trails in the Monongahela National Forest, including the Shingle Tree and South Haddix trails. It is unsafe to attempt to cross this section. Check with the Highlands Trail Foundation or local sources for the latest status before planning a through-ride.
Additionally, the trail section between Gilman and Kerens was damaged by broadband contractors during installation work. Repairs have been made — ruts filled and gravel spread — but the surface is not as smooth as the rest of the trail. Cyclists seeking a smoother ride through this stretch can use Leading Creek Road as a ride-around (moderate vehicle traffic).
Connecting Trails
At the northern end, the AHT connects to the Blackwater Canyon Trail, which follows the Blackwater River approximately 10 miles from Hendricks to Thomas. This is not a maintained rail-trail — the grade is steep and the surface rougher, so it’s best suited to experienced mountain bikers. Start from Thomas if you want the easier downhill direction.
There are also plans to extend the AHT north to Mount Storm Lake, which would add roughly 44 miles to the system. The trail also serves as a backbone for accessing hiking and biking trails in the Monongahela National Forest, making it a useful base route for longer multi-trail trips in the region.
Events on the Trail
The Highlands Trail Foundation (HTF), an all-volunteer organization that has managed trail development since 1995, hosts several annual events. The Blackwater Canyon Half Marathon draws runners from across the eastern United States and has earned recognition from Blue Ridge Outdoors Magazine. Other events include the Tygart Valley Half Marathon, the Ramps and Rail Festival, a spring bike ride, and an annual trail cleanup day. These events are a good way to experience the trail with a community and support ongoing maintenance.
What to Expect on the Trail
The AHT is notably quiet. Even on ideal weather weekends, you’re unlikely to encounter heavy traffic. The southern half of the trail passes through open farmland with mountain backdrops — scenic but exposed, with limited shade. The stretch from Parsons to Hendricks, running along the Black Fork River under tree cover, is generally considered the most visually appealing section.
There are no restrooms along the middle portions of the trail between towns, so plan accordingly. Dogs are common on the trail, and some properties near the route have dogs that may bark or approach — something to be aware of, especially with children. Cell service can be spotty in the more remote sections.
The trail also has a strong geocaching community, with numerous caches hidden along the route — a good addition for family rides.
Best Time to Ride
Late spring through early fall (May–October) offers the best conditions. The trail can be muddy after heavy rain, particularly on the unpaved sections. Summer brings warmth and full foliage, but also humidity and limited shade on the southern half. Fall is arguably the best season, when the mountain backdrop lights up with color and temperatures are comfortable for longer rides.
Winter riding is possible but not ideal — cold-weather outdoor planning is important, and ice or snow can make the gravel sections treacherous. Some locals use the trail for cross-country skiing when conditions allow.
Nearby Attractions
The trail sits in a region with plenty of outdoor options beyond the AHT itself. Blackwater Falls State Park, just north in Davis, is one of West Virginia’s most popular parks, with its dramatic 57-foot waterfall and extensive hiking and activity options. The Monongahela National Forest surrounds much of the trail corridor and offers backcountry hiking, fishing, and camping.
Elkins itself is worth exploring — the downtown has restaurants, the West Virginia Railroad Museum, and serves as a jumping-off point for the broader Appalachian road trip circuit. Parsons and Thomas both have small but genuine food and drink scenes that cater to outdoor visitors.
Planning Your Ride
For a full-length ride, the most practical approach is to set up a shuttle. Leave a vehicle at Hendricks or Parsons and start from Elkins, taking advantage of the net downhill heading north. If you prefer a shorter outing, the paved Parsons-to-Hendricks section (roughly 6 miles out and back) is easy and family-friendly, while the Montrose-to-Porterwood stretch offers a moderate challenge with good scenery.
Before heading out, confirm the Mile 16–17 closure status and check recent trail conditions. The Highlands Trail Foundation website and their social media accounts are the most reliable sources. And bring everything you’ll need — once you’re between trailheads, services are limited.
For more ideas on trail adventures in the eastern U.S., take a look at hidden gem vacation spots on the East Coast or explore outdoor recreation near Harpers Ferry, another great Appalachian destination.
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