Beckley Area Trails is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit whose mission is to create, enhance, and activate human-powered trails in the greater Beckley area. We’re a community-led effort connecting people with the outdoors through a growing network of quality trails across Raleigh County and the New River Gorge. Through group rides, volunteer days, outreach, and advocacy, we promote trail use and stewardship—making it easier for everyone to get outside, get moving, and help build a stronger outdoor community, one trail at a time.
Beckley Area Trails is a chapter of the International Mountain Bike Association (IMBA), a global leader in creating, enhancing, and preserving great trail experiences. IMBA works with communities to promote sustainable trail building and to expand access to trails for mountain bikers of all skill levels. Join today and be sure Beckley Area Trails is selected as your local chapter.
Our Mission
To create, enhance, and activate human-powered trails in the greater Beckley Area.
BAT Envisions
An Appalachian community where outdoor recreation drives connection, health, and sustainable economic growth.
Our Purpose
Beckley Area Trails exists to elevate Beckley’s future through the development, stewardship, and promotion of human-powered outdoor recreation. By building accessible trails, connecting outdoor assets to downtown, and fostering wellness, inclusion, and sustainable land use, we strengthen community, support the local economy, and celebrate our Appalachian identity.
Our Core Values
- Stewardship: We responsibly build and maintain trails to protect the land and ensure long-term sustainability.
- Community: We believe trails are strongest when built, shared, and supported by the people they serve.
- Access: We are committed to making trails open, safe, and welcoming to all.
- Health & Wellness: We promote outdoor recreation as a pathway to mental and physical well-being.
- Economic Vitality: We support trails as tools for sustainable growth, tourism, and local job creation.
- Appalachian Pride: We celebrate the landscapes, culture, and heritage that make our region unique.
- Trust & Collaboration: We work in partnership with others to achieve shared goals and build lasting impact.
Our Strategic Plan
Our Strategic Plan (2025–2029) lays out the vision for connecting more people to the outdoors through a growing network of trails in the Beckley area. Explore our goals, values, and plans for the future of our trail community.
NICA
The Raleigh County NICA Team is guided by values of fun, inclusivity, equity, respect, and community. Every youth is empowered to be part of a thriving and engaged cycling community. We build strong minds, bodies, character, and communities through cycling. No tryouts. No bench. #EveryoneRides
The Raleigh County Outlaws, part of the West Virginia Interscholastic Cycling League (NICA), are bringing big energy and even bigger smiles to our local trails! We enable youth in Raleigh County to strengthen mind, body, and character by participating in an interscholastic mountain bike racing experience that is co-ed, inclusive and equal. These student-athletes are learning teamwork, trail stewardship, and grit — all while building confidence on two wheels.
Want to learn more?
To learn more about West Virginia Interscholastic Cycling League (NICA) and the Raleigh County Outlaws visit https://westvirginiamtb.org/. To contact the Raleigh County Outlaws Youth Mountain Bike Team Director, email raleighcountycomposite.wvnica@gmail.com. You can also check out our Facebook page to stay in the know with our local team @Raleigh County Composite- Youth Mountain Bike Team!!
Board Members
Andrew Hitchcock – Board Chair and active on the Technical Advisory, Advocacy, Group Run/Ride & Event, and Trail Work Committees, Andrew helps guide the organization’s vision and hands-on projects.
Marissa Ansaroff (Kincaid) – As Board Vice Chair, Marissa contributes to both the Technical Advisory and Advocacy Committees, supporting leadership and outreach efforts.
Alyce Almond – Board Secretary and member of the Technical Advisory, Advocacy, Group Run/Ride & Event, and Trail Work Committees, Alyce ensures strong communication and organizational structure.
Elizabeth Raney – Board Treasurer and member of the Technical Advisory and Advocacy Committees, Elizabeth brings financial stewardship and advocacy to the board.
Sam Lambert – A dedicated Board Member, Sam serves on the Advocacy Committee and brings support to board initiatives.
Corey Lilly – A Non-Voting Board Member, Corey participates in the Technical Advisory and Advocacy Committees, contributing expertise and guidance.
Mitch Lehman – Non-Voting Board Member, Mitch lends his voice and experience to support the board’s work.
Ben Desiderato – Board Member and Trail Work Committee participant, Ben strengthens the organization through hands-on stewardship of trails.
Gary Morefield – Board Member and active in the Trail Work Committee, Gary helps maintain and improve outdoor spaces for the community.
Mark Allen – Board Member engaged in the Trail Work Committee, Mark supports the group’s on-the-ground efforts.
Ryan Crook – Board Member serving on the Trail Work Committee, Ryan adds energy and commitment to maintaining quality trails.