This route was one part planned, one part accident. In an attempt to complete a huge 140mi route that took us through Dolly Sods, Blackwater and down through the familiar roads out of Spruce Knob, an unexpected trailside illness forced me to cut it short. The resulting sub-century includes a happy accident reroute thanks to Garmin that takes you from Wymer to Seneca with a handful of crystal clear swimming holes on the back end. Truly a perfect day of gravel.

You’ll leave the Seneca area with your pockets full of snacks and supplies thanks to Yokum’s store and head up to Dolly Sod’s for some of the most picturesque scenery of the day. The air is cool, winds are breezy and eagles soar overhead while you blast down towards Canaan Valley and eventually dip into the Blackwater Wildlife area. Yet another picturesque area hidden in the old forest. Gravel roads turn in to doubletrack and eventually rolling pavement along the Cheat River. Waterfalls and swimming holes present themselves proudly in this area so take your time and soak your legs on a hot day.

You’ll head home along the Seneca Creek which is full of places to swim while you’re on your last leg of this trip. The last dozen or so miles are all downhill, so unzip, finish your snacks and roll back into Seneca with a smile on your face. This route is PERFECT.

Only one store stop on this route around mile 45 while going down the highway through the Canaan Valley area. Make sure to stock up accordingly!

35mm minimum.

99mi

11,000ft climbing