Stretching 77 miles through West Virginia’s Appalachian foothills, the Greenbrier River Trail invites riders and hikers to engage with a landscape fiercely itself. Formerly a railroad line, this trail now hums with a gentler rhythm, where the river dares you to follow its winding course beneath broad-leafed canopies and past remnants of industrial history. The terrain is mostly flat, making it accessible for casual riders while the steady glide of crushed limestone surfaces challenges your focus on maintaining momentum. Expect long stretches flanked by dense forests where the air carries the musk of earth and pine, splitting occasionally to reveal sweeping views where the river pushes and curls, a restless companion.

Begin near the town of Alderson, where parking and trail access are convenient. The complete length requires planning, but many choose manageable day rides of 10 to 20 miles, timing their outing to avoid summer’s midday heat and the trail’s occasional muddy patches after rain. The gentle elevation changes max out around 1,000 feet but happen gradually, keeping the focus on endurance rather than climbing skill.

Hydration is crucial here: streams and springs near the trail offer refreshment, but carrying water is a must if you plan to go deep. Footwear with good grip will handle the occasional gravelly edges where the crushed limestone loosens. Weather can shift quickly, so lightweight layers help you adapt, along with a rain jacket if forecasts predict storms.

History whispers along the trail in abandoned train tunnels, old trestles, and decaying stations—key markers of the route’s original purpose that invite reflection on the labor and commerce that once fueled this region. Wildlife calls from the shadows—white-tailed deer, songbirds, and if you’re patient, the fleeting glimpse of a fox or wild turkey.

Ride with respect for this fiercely natural place. The Greenbrier River Trail does not bend to your will but offers steady companionship for those ready to move through its unfolding chapters. It’s both an escape and an introduction: a chance to trace the stories of land, water, and human hands over time, all while moving under your own power.