Region: West Virginia
Season: May – October
Miles: 160 | Elevation: 14,899’
Days Out: 2-4 | Tire Size: 40mm+
Difficulty: 6/10 Physical | 4/10 Technical
This epic western Mon loop is best experienced over 3–4 days, linking Elkins to some of the most remote gravel roads in the high backcountry.
Region: West Virginia
Season: May – October
Miles: 213 | Elevation: 18,365’
Days Out: 2-5 | Tire Size: 40mm+
Difficulty: 5.5/10 Physical | 4.5/10 Technical
The Gravel Ride Up Spruce Knob (GRUSK) is West Virginia’s premier annual gravel bikepacking festival, held on the slopes of the Mountain State’s highest peak. Organized by MountainRides LLC, the event celebrates its 10th year in 2026 and has become a cornerstone gathering for Mid-Atlantic cyclists — a weekend to reconnect, camp under the stars, and ride some of the best high-country gravel in the north-central Mon.
Region: West Virginia
Season: May – October
Miles: 440 | Elevation: 36,810’
Days Out: 4-8 | Tire Size: 50mm+
Difficulty: 6/10 Physical | 5.5/10 Technical
The Mon Circuit 440 is a more focused version of the full Mon Forest circuit, linking 8 of the 12 Mon Forest Towns through the core of the region. At 441 miles with 36,810 feet of climbing, it delivers a slightly lower climbing intensity than the full route (vs. 54,605’ over 594 miles), while maintaining the rugged, backcountry character that defines riding in the Mon.
