Bicycling Trails in Jefferson County
Whether you want a leisurely family outing along a historic site or a
strenuous ride on a mountainous path, Jefferson County has just the trip
for you.
You can choose self-guided trips or hire a professional to guide you along
your way. Consider combining your bike trip with whitewater adventure or
camping. You'll find just what you need to have a memorable trip. Our local
outfitters offer a variety of options that provide you with what you need to
take in the natural beauty and scenery of the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers
or follow the footsteps of historical figures.
Biking Trails and Routes
- U.S. ROUTE 9 BIKE PATH - A recently completed section of U.S. Rt. 9
from the Charles Town/Ranson area to the Kearneysville area of Jefferson County also
sports a bike path! Approximately five miles of blacktopped path winds through woods,
wildflowers, and historic sites. As the construction for the corridor of Rt. 9 from
Charles Town to Martinsburg is completed, the bike path will be extended as well. Soon
riders will be able to ride the bike path from Charles Town to Martinsburg, unimpeded by
traffic! Pick up the path just past the Potomac Marketplace Shopping Center on the outskirts
of Ranson, and ride for 5 miles before the path ends.
- THE C&O CANAL TOW PATH - A favorite route for bikers goes along the
historic C&O Canal. The Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park preserves America's
colorful Canal era and transportation history. Its towpath is an elevated trail that is 184.5
miles long that was originally built 12 feet wide as a path for mules that pulled canal boats.
It was a lifeline for communities and businesses along the Potomac River as coal, lumber, grain
and other agricultural products floated down the canal to market.
Today, millions of visitors hike or bike the C&O Canal each year to enjoy the natural, cultural and
recreational opportunities available. More people visit the C&O Canal each year than Yellowstone,
Shenandoah or Everglades. Mile markers are posted. For further information, call the National Park
Service at 301-739-4200. Visit the Canal National Park's website at: www.nps.gov/choh for detailed
history of the Canal, or the website of the C&O Canal Trust at
www.canaltrust.org to find out more about the C&O Canal's history, and ongoing efforts to maintain and
preserve this national treasure.
NOTE: Access to the C&O Canal from Harpers Ferry is extremely difficult.
Click the link below for nearby alternate access points to the canal towpath.
Alternate Access Points to the C&O Canal Towpath
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