Core Arboretum – Hazel Ruby McQuain Park loop from West Virginia University Evansdale Campus
Core Arboretum – Hazel Ruby McQuain Park loop from West Virginia University Evansdale Campus
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(7641)
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Core Arboretum – Hazel Ruby McQuain Park loop from West Virginia University Evansdale Campus
01:18
23.0km
160m
Road cycling
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: April 29, 2026
Tips
The surface for a segment of your route may not be suitable
Some segments of your route comprise a surface that may not be suitable for your chosen sport.
After 0 m for 472 m
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
679 m
Core Arboretum
Highlight • Forest
Tip by
11.8 km
Mon River Trail South
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
19.8 km
Hazel Ruby McQuain Park
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
23.0 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
20.5 km
1.61 km
623 m
196 m
< 100 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
20.7 km
1.61 km
455 m
265 m
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Elevation
Highest point (310 m)
Lowest point (250 m)
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Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Saturday 27 June
24°C
19°C
97 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 10.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a refreshing road cycling route that blends nature with urban accessibility near the WVU Evansdale Campus, the Core Arboretum – Hazel Ruby McQuain Park loop is a solid choice. This moderate 14.3-mile (23.0 km) ride, with a gentle 522 feet (159 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 1 hour and 18 minutes, making it perfect for a quick escape or a leisurely spin. It's an ideal route if you want to experience Morgantown's scenic riverfront and natural beauty without tackling the city's notorious hills, offering a popular route for road cycling.
What to expect on Core Arboretum – Hazel Ruby McQuain Park loop from West Virginia University Evansdale Campus
The route primarily follows the Caperton Rail-Trail, offering a smooth ride that transitions from asphalt within Morgantown to compacted crushed limestone outside the city. You'll enjoy notably flat sections along the Monongahela River, providing scenic waterfront views and opportunities for bird observation. As you pass through the WVU Core Arboretum, you'll find a natural escape featuring old-growth forests and a wide array of native West Virginia trees, with spectacular spring wildflowers from late March to early May. While the rail trail sections are generally easy, be aware that the Core Arboretum's Service Road, which is part of the route, does have some steep sections, adding a bit of challenge to an otherwise gentle ride.
Planning your visit
This loop is accessible year-round, but the spring months (late March to early May) are particularly rewarding for viewing the arboretum's vibrant wildflower displays. The Caperton Rail-Trail is well-maintained, making it suitable for road bikes. Parking is generally available near the WVU Evansdale Campus, providing a convenient starting point for your ride. Always check local conditions, especially after heavy rain, as unpaved sections might be softer.
Trail details
- Distance: 14.3 miles (23.0 km)
- Elevation gain: 522 feet (159 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 1 hours and 18 minutes
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