Ben's Run Recreational Area Mountain Biking Trails

Made possible by a $50,000 project jointly funded by the WV Department of Transportation and the City of Spencer. This exciting trail system lies in the heart of the southern "Holswade" district and connects the Chestnut Ridge Artist Colony with the lower end of the city. One amazing historic feature you will see is the historic remnants of the old dam constructed in 1913, which once contained the water supply for the City of Spencer. The lake was drained during the 1950's, but the amazing concrete dam still stands and looks much like a giant Roman aqueduct. The dam can be seen from Ben's Run Trail. Benches are placed in sporadic locations around the trail for your enjoyment. Mountain bikers will love the system as it has a variety of technical, challenging sections from rock gardens to technical downhills as well as some flowy, fast sections that you will want to loop around and hit again. About six miles of trails in all. Trailheads are at the upper end at the Chestnut Ridge Artist Colony (access parking is at the entrance of the colony and the trail begins at Chestnut Ridge Winery) or at the lower end across from the City of Spencer Swimming Pool which is located behind the Roane County Committee on Aging building on Park Avenue. Washington Park is nearby and a great place to take the kids.

Note that the trails are named after local characters, historic names and iconic Spencer area features.