Pocahontas: Morgan and Lakeview Trails - Mountain Bike Trail

The Morgan and Lakeview Trail Systems are the most popular mountain bike trails for technical riding in Pocahontas State Park. These are singletracks characterized by rocky, root-filled treads with tight twists and turns, plus a decent amount of flowing sections, water crossings, obstacles, and climbs. If you’re looking for moderately challenging trails, these trail systems might just be your favorite.

Before you go:

Drinking water

Restrooms

Fee required

Lift service

Fat bike grooming

Family Friendly

Night riding

E-bikes allowed

Dogs Allowed

Obstacles

Shuttles

Detailed Trail Description

Located on the northwest of the Visitor Center, the Morgan trail system includes natural hand-built singletrack, log-overs, natural rock features, and multiple creek crossings. The rocky, root-filled tread combined with tight twists and turns make it the perfect system for technical riding. It is made up of four trails, namely the Box Turtle, Morel Ravine, Tall Oaks, and Little West Virginia.

Meanwhile, the Lakeview I, II, and III is a stacked loop system containing long lines of curving terrain, perfect for those who prefer a rough tread with moderate tight turns. Each loop has interconnecting sections of shorter and more challenging trails with rocky treads and natural technical features. Lakeview I is the easiest trail to ride, with mostly level to gentle downhill slopes. Lakeview II is similar to Lakeview I but with more ups and downs. However, Lakeview III is where it gets tricky. It has a lot of obstacles and quick little crossings followed by short, steeper climbs. Still, it is worth the effort once you gaze at the stunning lake view.

These two trail systems are the locals’ go-to route in Pocahontas State Park. Here’s how you can reach them:

From the Horner Forest Trail parking lot, a short bi-directional connector will lead you to the Morgan trails about 1 mile before the official trailhead. It loops through the beginner trail, which can be a good warmup, and the Morel Ravine, which is a black diamond trail with steep, rooty climbs, log overs, and deep ravine drop-ins. You can complete the Morgan trails with an intermediate loop of technical but not overly difficult singletrack. You may also add Little West Virginia (optional) on your route, which includes several log overs, drops, and uphill and downhill rock gardens.

After that, head over to the Lakeview loops. Since it is a stacked loop system, you can either ride only one trail or all three. To reach Lakeview, follow the Old Mill Bike Trail to the left of the CCC Museum, cross the bridge, then go up to the left. Turn left at the top of the hill, curve right, and finally turn left again onto the Powhatan path. Follow this trail up and down several hills before turning left into the second trail, which leads to a small trail kiosk. From there, you can already see arrows pointing to Lakeview.

Additional Trail Features

• Extra fees: To access the Swift Creek Trail, you have to pay the entrance fee to Pocahontas State Park, which is $7 on weekdays and $10 on weekends for standard vehicles.
• Obstacles: The Box Turtle trail goes through an unusual terrain that seems to be an old garbage dump. We suggest that you avoid riding on that part since there are large pieces of metal sticking out of the ground. Make sure to exercise caution to avoid any form of accident.

Sights of Interest, Landscapes, and Views

The Lakeview loops are slightly more remote compared to Morgan trails, but they offer a great view of the Swift Creek Lake. If you’re lucky, you might even spot the occasional Bald Eagles.

Recommendations and Precautions

Kids or beginners may need some assistance in some areas with difficult technical features, especially the black diamond Morel Ravine trail and Lakeview III. 

If possible, avoid bringing your fur friends with you since the rocky terrain can hurt their paws.