Pocahontas County
Where the road opens up and the mountains do the rest.
Whether you’re here for the trail, the ride, the history, or simply the kind of quiet that’s getting harder to find — Pocahontas County delivers. Nature’s Mountain Playground has hundreds of miles of trails, wild rivers, dark skies, and roads worth riding. You’ll leave with a list of reasons to come back.
EXPLORE
on two wheels
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Greenbrier River Trail – 78 miles of scenic rail-to-trail running alongside the Greenbrier River — flat, well-maintained, and one of the finest cycling trails in the East. The Old Clark sits one block from the trailhead, making it the natural home base for GRT riders. We’ve got covered, locked storage for your bike, a dedicated cleaning station, tools for basic repairs, and e-bike charging — so you can pull in, sort out your gear, and actually relax. Lock your bike, shower off, walk to dinner. Do it again tomorrow. Ride point to point, out and back, or section by section over multiple days. The trail runs from Cass in the north to Caldwell in the south — if you’re planning a full point-to-point, reach out and we’ll help you think through the logistics.
🚲 Trail note: the GRT has rolling closures through 2027 for bridge repairs. Sections remain open — check greenbrierrivertrail.com for current access. The riding is still worth the trip.
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Monday Lick Trail System (~3 miles from the inn)
Nearly 30 miles of purpose-built singletrack through the Monongahela National Forest, ranging from beginner-friendly loops to advanced terrain. A worthy addition to any cycling itinerary in the county.
Scenic Rides
Pocahontas County is a motorcyclist’s county — full stop. The roads here wind through the Monongahela National Forest with the kind of elevation changes and sweeping curves that make a long ride feel like it was designed for you. Highland Scenic Highway is the marquee route — a high-altitude drive through some of the most dramatic scenery in West Virginia. But it’s the back roads that keep riders coming back. Take your time, explore, and let the county reveal itself at your own pace. There’s no shortage of road worth riding here.
Hiking & Nature
- Tea Creek Backcountry Trails – A web of trails through lush, remote forest perfect for seasoned hikers or day wanderers.
- Falls of Hills Creek – A short and rewarding hike to a series of stunning waterfalls.
- Beartown State Park – Fascinating rock formations and boardwalks through a mossy wonderland.
- Watoga State Park (~14 miles south, about 20 minutes) – West Virginia’s largest state park, with trails, swimming, boating, and wildlife viewing.
- Cranberry Glades Botanical Area – A rare and serene ecosystem of bogs and unique plant life, perfect for peaceful walks and birdwatching.
- Seneca State Forest – Towering trees, remote trails, and fire tower stays for the adventurous spirit.
- Fishing & Kayaking – Cast a line in the Greenbrier River or explore nearby creeks and streams by paddle.
Dining & Local Flavor
- Mim’s Kitchen – Homey restaurant in a converted church with a relaxed atmosphere and homestyle cooking. (Open weekends only. Closed winters.)
- Dirtbean Café – Coffee, smoothies, light bites, and bike-friendly vibes right in Marlinton.
- Trailhead Pizza – Located inside Greenbrier Bikes – grab a slice and refuel.
- Mountain Tavern Restaurant – Casual dining with Italian and Greek options, including pizza and pasta.
- Greenbrier Grille – Riverside dining with casual comfort food.
- Rivertown Cafe – Historic hardware store turned vibey cafe.
- Dari-Land – Breakfast, burgers, Philly cheesesteaks, and ice cream.
- Old Mountain Tavern – A relaxed spot for a cold drink and good conversation.
Shops & Local Gems
- 4th Avenue Gallery – Artisans Co-Op – Locally made crafts, pottery, jewelry, and gifts.
- The Shops at Rivertown – Housed in the revitalized C.J. Richardson building, featuring artist studios, galleries, and unique retail spaces — handcrafted pottery, local art, and community events under one historic roof.
- HandMade WV Market – Artisanal products, locally sourced groceries, pantry items, and handcrafted folk arts and crafts.
Arts, History & Stargazing
- Cass Scenic Railroad (~29 miles, about 45 minutes) – A genuine steam-powered mountain railway chugging up Cheat Mountain since the logging era. A living piece of Appalachian history worth a half day of your trip.
- Pocahontas County Opera House – Live performances in a beautifully restored historic venue in the heart of Marlinton.
- Green Bank Observatory (~15 miles north) – Explore the universe from one of the quietest spots on Earth, thanks to the National Radio Quiet Zone.
- Dark Skies & Stargazing – The lack of light pollution makes this one of the best places on the East Coast to take in the Milky Way.
Wellness & Relaxation
- Mountain Medicine Massage – Expert massage therapy in Marlinton. The perfect pause after a long day on the trail or road.
- Headwater Spa & Salon – Haircuts, styling, facials, and nail treatments in a welcoming atmosphere.
- Little Mountain Yoga Studio – Nestled within the historic Rivertown building, offering classes focused on breathing, movement, and relaxation.
Then come back to the Old Clark.
Park your bike. Hang your helmet. The porch is waiting, the parlor has a fireplace, and tomorrow’s ride isn’t going anywhere.
You earned this.







