The best running trails in Monongalia County

Monongalia County offers a wide variety of running experiences, with over 15 routes documented on komoot. These range from easy, flat paths to more challenging trails with elevation changes, catering to all fitness levels.

Yes, Monongalia County is excellent for beginners. The extensive network of rail-trails, such as the Mon River Trail and Caperton Trail, provides approximately 48 miles of mostly flat terrain. These are ideal for easy runs. For example, the Hazel Ruby McQuain Park loop from Morgantown is a moderate 4.7-mile route with minimal elevation gain, perfect for a relaxed run.

For longer runs, the interconnected rail-trails like the Mon River Trail and Caperton Trail offer continuous stretches. You can combine sections for extended distances. A good option is the Coopers Rock Overlook – Coopers Rock Overlook loop from Coopers Rock State Forest, which is a challenging 10.7-mile (17.2 km) route, or the Hazel Ruby McQuain Park – Mon River Trail South loop from Morgantown, covering about 10.2 miles (16.4 km).

Absolutely. For those seeking a more strenuous run, Coopers Rock State Forest offers numerous trails with varied terrain and elevation. The Core Arboretum – Caperton Trail loop from West Virginia University School of Dentistry is a difficult 9.6-mile (15.5 km) route, providing a good workout with significant elevation changes.

Monongalia County's running routes offer diverse scenery. You can enjoy views of the Monongahela River along the Mon River Trail, or experience the tranquil, wooded setting of the WVU Core Arboretum, known for its native trees and spring wildflowers. For panoramic vistas, trails in Coopers Rock State Forest lead to overlooks like Coopers Rock Overlook and Raven Rock Viewpoint, offering stunning views of the Cheat River Gorge.

Yes, many routes in Monongalia County are designed as loops, providing a convenient start and finish point. Popular options include the Core Arboretum – Caperton Trail loop from Morgantown, an 8.5-mile (13.7 km) route, and the Coopers Rock Overlook loop from Coopers Rock State Forest, which is 6.1 miles (9.9 km).

Many of the rail-trails, being mostly flat and paved in sections, are very family-friendly. The Caperton Trail, for instance, is paved for about eight miles, making it accessible for various activities. Parks like Hazel Ruby McQuain Park also offer pleasant, easy loops suitable for families, such as the Core Arboretum – Hazel Ruby McQuain Park loop from Morgantown.

Yes, the rail-trails in Monongalia County generally offer convenient access points with parking facilities. Many trails run through or near city parks, making parking readily available for runners.

The komoot community highly rates the running routes in Monongalia County. Runners often praise the diverse terrain, from the flat, scenic rail-trails along the river to the more challenging, wooded paths in areas like Coopers Rock State Forest. The accessibility and natural beauty, especially the spring wildflowers in the WVU Core Arboretum, are frequently highlighted.

Yes, the interconnected rail-trails, particularly the Caperton Trail, run through or near urban areas like Morgantown and Star City. This means you can often find restaurants and shops conveniently located along or just off the trails, perfect for a post-run refreshment.

Monongalia County offers varied terrain. You'll find mostly flat, paved or crushed-stone surfaces on the rail-trails (Mon River, Caperton, Deckers Creek). In contrast, areas like Coopers Rock State Forest feature more rugged, unpaved forest trails with gradual climbs and descents through dense Appalachian woodlands, including rhododendron and hemlock groves.

The WVU Core Arboretum, accessible via the Caperton Trail, provides a unique natural running experience. This 91-acre historic arboretum features hundreds of native West Virginia trees and shrubs, some over 200 years old, and is particularly beautiful in the spring with its ephemeral wildflowers, offering a tranquil and shaded run.