Pocahontas State Park offers a comprehensive network of mountain bike trails, with approximately 44 miles of single-track directional trails and 64 miles of gravel fire roads. The park has three major mountain bike trail systems: Morgan, Lakeview, and Swift Creek, each offering unique riding experiences for all skill levels.
Trail Systems
Morgan Trail System
The Morgan Trail System, built in the mid to late 1990s, is located northwest of the Visitor Center and features 11.6 miles of technical riding with rocky and root-filled trails.
Lakeview Trail System
The Lakeview Trail System, located on the south side of Swift Creek Lake, offers 9.9 miles of trails with a mix of rake and ride trails and hand-built trails, providing long lines and rolling terrain.
Swift Creek Trail System
The Swift Creek Trail System, located on the north side of the park, features 22 miles of machine-built flow trails, including 7 miles accessible to hand trikes, making it suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike.
Trail Conditions and Closures
Daily Status
To check the current trail status, visit the Friends of Pocahontas State Park website or text “POCA” to 804-292-2939 for automated daily updates on trail conditions and closures.
Trail Closures
Trails may close due to weather and other adverse conditions. Riders are encouraged to respect trail closures to protect the trails and ensure a better riding experience.
Rules and Guidelines
- Ride on Open Trails Only: Respect trail and road closures, and do not trespass on private land.
- Leave No Trace: Be sensitive to the environment, avoid riding on wet trails, and stay on existing trails to prevent damage.
- Control Your Bicycle: Ride within your limits and obey speed regulations.
- Yield to Others: Be courteous to other trail users, and yield to those headed uphill unless the trail is signed for one-way traffic.
- Never Scare Animals: Give animals enough room and time to adjust to your presence.
Park Information
- Hours: The park is open daily from 7:30 a.m. to dusk.
- Parking: Parking fees apply, and parking on private property is not permitted.
- Facilities: The park offers various facilities, including a lodge, cabins, campsites, yurts, and a camp store.
Additional Resources
MTB Project
For detailed trail information, including recommended routes and weather averages, visit the MTB Project directory for Pocahontas State Park.
Friends of Pocahontas State Park
For more information on trail conditions, volunteer opportunities, and supporting the park, visit the Friends of Pocahontas State Park website.
References
- Friends of Pocahontas State Park. (n.d.). Mountain Bike Trail Info. Retrieved from http://www.fopsp.org/mountain-bike-trail-info.html
- MTB Project. (n.d.). Pocahontas State Park. Retrieved from https://www.mtbproject.com/directory/8010704/pocahontas-state-park
- Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. (n.d.). Pocahontas State Park. Retrieved from https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/pocahontas
- Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. (n.d.). Mountain Biking at Pocahontas State Park. Retrieved from https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/po-mountain-biking
- Friends of Pocahontas State Park. (n.d.). Current Trail Info. Retrieved from http://www.fopsp.org/current-info.html