Marietta, Ohio, and Parkersburg, West Virginia, combine trail variety and downtown amenities
PARKERSBURG, VIRGINIA & MARIETTA, OHIO–MAY 2026–Combine a 2026 IMBA Trail Town and an area with nearly 300 miles of cycling routes and the result is an epic destination for bikers. Marietta, Ohio, and Parkersburg, West Virginia, offer a unique cycling getaway showcasing a rare two-state bike weekend that blends challenging rides with vibrant small-town culture. These two gems of the Mid-Ohio Valley are located on the banks of the Ohio River, just a two-hour drive via I-70 and I-77 from Columbus, Ohio or Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Greater Parkersburg, known as an outstanding single-track biking destination, is replete with opportunities for trail days filled with variety and challenge. There are more than 225 miles of single-track trails and 72 miles of rail trails to explore.
Mountwood Park (1014 Volcano Road, Walker, West Virginia 26180; 304-679-3611) is one of the area’s oldest trail systems and one of the most popular in the region. Consistently rated as one of the top trail systems in the region, the 2,000-acre park has 35 miles of flowing trails that include challenging switchbacks, rolling ridges and downhill runs. At North Bend State Park the popular North Bend Rail Trail (202 North Bend Park Road, Cairo West Virginia 26337; 304-643-2931) multi-use recreational trail is part of the coast-to-coast American Discovery Trail. The route, mostly flat with hard-packed surface, passes through 13 tunnels and crosses 36 bridges in the region.
Just across the river, Marietta has recently been recognized as a “2026 IMBA Trail Town,” a new national designation from the International Mountain Bicycling Association. The designation recognizes communities with an exceptional commitment to creating, maintaining and celebrating their trails.
This is home to over 80 miles of single-track mountain bike trails and the Wayne National Forest (13700 U.S. Highway 33, Nelsonville, Ohio 45764; 740-753-0101) has miles of routes managed for both hiking and mountain biking. From the scenic 14-mile Archer’s Fork Loop Trail to the 41 miles of the North Country National Scenic Trail (27750 State Route 7, Marietta, Ohio 45750), there is a setting, distance and challenge for everyone. There is also the historic Muskingum River State Park (1390 Ellis Dam Road, Zanesville, Ohio 43701; 740-453-4377), home to scenic routes tracing the Muskingum River watershed.
The River Trail Bike and Pedestrian Path (740-373-5178) begins on the levee and winds through Marietta’s historic downtown. And of course, after a day on the trail, an evening of casual downtown dining is a welcome way to relax and enjoy these river towns.
Where to eat
Levee House Bistro (127 Ohio Street, Marietta, Ohio 45750; 740-371-7035) offers river views and a menu that features steaks, pastas and seafood, along with homemade desserts. The Galley (203 2nd Street, Marietta, Ohio 45750; 740-374-8278) is known for steaks, burgers and the best beer selection in town. For margaritas and authentic Mexican cuisine, Tampico Mexican Restaurant (221 Second Street, Marietta, Ohio 45750; 740-374-8623) is the place to go. The Busy Bee (226 Gilman Avenue, Marietta, Ohio 45750; 740-373-3755) focuses on locally raised meats and produce for a genuine farm-to-fork experience. Each spot has comfortable outdoor dining areas.
In Parkersburg, patrons can take in a little history with their meal at the North End Tavern & Brewery (3500 Emerson Avenue, Parkersburg, West Virginia, 26104; 304-428-5854), the oldest brewery in the state. It’s a popular spot for delicious pub fare and hand-crafted beer from the on-site craft brewery. J.P. Henrys (5106 Emerson Avenue, Parkersburg, West Virginia 26104; 304-485-9390) is known for its western burger, Reuben and personal pizzas, along with a big selection of wine, beer and spirits.