The best road cycling routes in Wills Mountain State Park

The region around Wills Mountain State Park is characterized by significant elevation changes, rolling hills, and dense forests. Cyclists will encounter varied terrain, including challenging climbs with grades exceeding 15 percent and scenic descents, particularly on low-traffic rural roads in Allegany County. The dramatic topography of Wills Mountain itself contributes to a vigorous cycling experience.

While many routes in the Wills Mountain State Park area feature significant elevation changes, there are moderate options available. For instance, the Lake Koon – Fagan CREP Easement loop from Cumberland is a moderate 34.5-mile route that offers a good balance of challenge and scenic views without being overly strenuous for those with some cycling experience. The Fagan CREP Easement loop from Cumberland is another moderate option, covering 21.2 miles through rolling hills.

For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, the region offers difficult routes with substantial climbs. The McNamee Hill loop from Cumberland is a difficult 47.9-mile path with over 1,390 meters of elevation gain. Another demanding option is the North Branch Potomac River – Browning CREP Easement loop from Wiley Ford, a difficult 60-kilometer route featuring over 1,000 meters of ascent.

Yes, all the featured road cycling routes in this guide are loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Lake Koon – Fagan CREP Easement loop from Cumberland, the Fagan CREP Easement loop from Cumberland, and the WM Scenic RR Double Bridge loop from Ridgeley.

Road cycling routes in this area vary in length and duration to suit different preferences. You can find routes ranging from approximately 21 miles (34 km) like the Fagan CREP Easement loop from Cumberland, which takes about 1 hour 42 minutes, to longer, more challenging rides such as the McNamee Hill loop from Cumberland, which is 47.9 miles (77.1 km) and can take over 4 hours.

The region offers breathtaking scenery, including panoramic views of surrounding mountains and valleys, most notably the Cumberland Narrows. Cyclists can also experience the rugged, undeveloped nature of Wills Mountain, with its expansive cliff faces and diverse ecosystems, including unique barrens habitats. The routes often pass through dense forests and offer glimpses of the area's natural beauty.

Given the mountainous terrain and potential for challenging weather, spring, summer, and fall are generally the best seasons for road biking in the Wills Mountain State Park area. Fall offers spectacular foliage, while spring and summer provide warmer temperatures. Always check local weather conditions before heading out, especially for mountain routes where conditions can change rapidly.

While Wills Mountain State Park itself has historically faced accessibility challenges, the road cycling routes in the surrounding Allegany County typically start from towns like Cumberland, Ridgeley, or Wiley Ford. These towns usually offer public parking options where you can begin your ride. It's advisable to check specific starting points for each route for detailed parking information.

Due to the varied terrain and potential for significant elevation changes, it's recommended to bring appropriate gear. This includes a well-maintained road bike, helmet, sufficient water and snacks, navigation tools (like komoot's app), a repair kit, and layers of clothing suitable for changing weather conditions. Given the rural nature of some roads, a phone for emergencies is also wise.

The road cycling routes in the Wills Mountain State Park area often traverse rural roads. While the routes themselves may not have frequent amenities, starting points in towns like Cumberland offer various cafes, restaurants, and shops where you can refuel before or after your ride. It's always a good idea to carry enough provisions for the duration of your ride.

This guide features 5 highly-rated road cycling routes in the Wills Mountain State Park region, offering a range of difficulties from moderate to difficult. These routes showcase the best of the area's landscape and are popular among local cyclists.

Road cycling in the Wills Mountain State Park area is unique due to its combination of dramatic elevation changes, low-traffic rural roads, and stunning natural scenery. The region's geology, including features like the Cumberland Narrows and the rugged Wills Mountain, provides a challenging yet rewarding experience amidst a diverse ecosystem, making it ideal for cyclists seeking a vigorous workout in a beautiful mountain environment.