Mountain biking the Arrowhead Trails in the New River Gorge offers a gripping mix of rugged terrain, thick hardwood forests, and panoramic overlooks that demand respect and skill. Each trail section challenges riders with sharply shifting surfaces—rock gardens, packed dirt, and loose gravel—that the forest floor fiercely guards. You’ll feel the pulse of the gorge itself beneath your tires as you navigate climbs that push your lungs and descents that demand sharp focus, all framed by ridges that dare you to look far beyond.

This network of trails stretches between 3 and 10 miles per segment, with elevation gains hovering around 500 feet on average, giving enough ups and downs to keep your adrenaline steady but not overwhelming. Terrain varies from singletrack with technical roots to wider fire roads perfect for steady pacing. Forest sections are dense, cooling you under the shade of oaks and maples, but openings reveal sweeping views across the New River, its currents pushing forward below like a living artery.

Preparation is vital. Hydration can’t be overlooked—carry two liters at minimum. Sturdy mountain biking shoes with solid grip handle slippery roots and rocky stretches better than running shoes. Begin your rides in early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak heat and catch the gorge bathed in low-angle light that both sharpens the landscape and cools the air.

Wildlife may shadow your progress: white-tailed deer peer from the underbrush, while occasional hawks wheel overhead, commanding the sky. Remember the trails are fiercely wild; the forest won’t yield your passage lightly. Leave no trace, pack out your trash, and stay on designated paths to respect this vibrant terrain.

Parking is available near the Fayette Station trailhead, a good base camp for accessing the Arrowhead loops. Local bike shops in nearby Fayetteville provide rentals and trail advice if you’re without your own rig. With moderate difficulty, these trails suit intermediate riders eager to sharpen skills and soak in one of Appalachia’s best mountain bike experiences.

In all, the Arrowhead Trails offer more than a ride – they present a direct conversation with the New River Gorge. Each pedal stroke is a negotiation with nature, demanding attention and rewarding you with views and the pulse of wild, moving earth beneath you.