Trail Town: Marlinton, WV

Marlinton, West Virginia, is a small town with a rich history dating back to the 18th century when European settlers first arrived in the Greenbrier Valley. Established in 1891 and serving as the county seat of Pocahontas County, Marlinton has long been a hub for commerce, agriculture, and outdoor adventure. The town played a vital role in the timber and railroad industries during the early 20th century, with logging operations and the Chesapeake & Ohio Railway fueling its economic growth. Despite shifts in industry over the years, Marlinton has retained its historic charm, with well-preserved buildings and a deep connection to Appalachian heritage.

One of the town’s defining features is its location along the scenic Greenbrier River Trail, a 78-mile-long rail-trail that follows the old C&O Railway route through the heart of the Allegheny Mountains. The trail, which is a designated National Recreation Trail, draws hikers, cyclists, and outdoor enthusiasts from across the region. Marlinton serves as a major access point for this beloved pathway, offering visitors a chance to experience the breathtaking beauty of the Greenbrier River, rolling farmland, and dense forests. The town has embraced its role as a gateway to adventure, with local businesses catering to trail users and outdoor tourism continuing to grow.

In recent years, Marlinton has become a rising hotspot for mountain bikers, thanks to its rugged terrain and increasing investment in trails. With the Monongahela National Forest and Snowshoe Mountain Resort nearby, the region boasts a variety of trails suited for all skill levels, from flowing singletrack to challenging backcountry routes. Efforts to develop and promote mountain biking infrastructure, combined with the area's natural beauty and welcoming community, are transforming Marlinton into a premier destination for cyclists. Whether riding the Greenbrier River Trail or tackling the steep, technical descents in the surrounding mountains, riders are discovering that Marlinton is an emerging paradise for two-wheeled adventure.