1. Is Beckley Area Trails an IMBA Chapter?
Yes! Beckley Area Trails is an official IMBA (International Mountain Bicycling Association) Chapter. This partnership connects our local trail community to a national network of advocates and resources that support sustainable trail development, volunteer training, and outdoor recreation growth.
2. Does Beckley Area Trails focus only on biking, or hiking too?
We focus on both biking and hiking — and more! While mountain biking is a major focus through our IMBA affiliation, our mission is to create and maintain multi-use trails that serve hikers, runners, and outdoor enthusiasts of all experience levels. Our goal is to make the outdoors accessible and enjoyable for everyone in the Beckley area and beyond.
3. What kinds of projects and programs does Beckley Area Trails work on?
Beckley Area Trails leads and supports a variety of trail development and outdoor recreation initiatives, including:
- Trail design, construction, and maintenance in the greater Beckley–New River Gorge region
- Volunteer trail workdays and stewardship programs
- Community rides and outdoor meet-ups that bring local riders and hikers together
- Youth outdoor programs, including support for NICA (National Interscholastic Cycling Association) teams and aspiring coaches
- Education and training workshops on sustainable trail building and outdoor leadership
- Collaborations with land managers, local governments, and partner organizations like the New River Gorge IMBA Ride Center initiative
4. What region does Beckley Area Trails serve?
Our work covers the Beckley metropolitan area and the greater New River Gorge region, which includes Raleigh, Fayette, Nicholas, and Summers Counties. We focus on connecting communities through trails — linking neighborhoods, parks, and local businesses to the outdoor destinations surrounding New River Gorge National Park and Preserve.
5. How can I get involved with Beckley Area Trails?
There are many ways to get involved and become part of the trail community! You can:
- Join as an IMBA member and select Beckley Area Trails as your local chapter
- Volunteer for trail workdays, clean-ups, or event support
- Join our community group rides — open to riders of all skill levels and a great way to meet others
- Become a NICA youth coach or mentor, helping inspire the next generation of mountain bikers
- Donate to support tools, training, and trail-building projects
- Attend community meetings and planning sessions to help shape the future of local trails
6. What types of trails does Beckley Area Trails help develop?
We support the development of diverse, sustainable trail systems that serve a variety of users:
- Mountain bike trails (beginner, intermediate, and advanced)
- Hiking and nature trails for exploration and wellness
- Gravel and adventure cycling routes across the New River Gorge region
- Accessible trails that meet ADA standards for inclusive recreation
All of our projects emphasize sustainability, connectivity, and community benefit.
7. Is Beckley Area Trails part of the City of Beckley or a nonprofit organization?
Beckley Area Trails is a community-driven nonprofit organization that collaborates closely with the City of Beckley, the Outdoor Economic Development Collaborative at WVU, and other partners. While independent, we align our efforts with regional plans that strengthen outdoor recreation, economic growth, and community wellness.
8. How does Beckley Area Trails benefit the community?
Our work helps make southern West Virginia a great place to live, work, and play. Beckley Area Trails supports:
- Outdoor recreation access for residents and visitors
- Local economic development through tourism and outdoor business growth
- Public health and well-being through active lifestyles
- Youth engagement via NICA and community programs
- Environmental stewardship through sustainable trail practices
9. How can I stay up to date on Beckley Area Trails events and projects?
Follow us on social media, join our mailing list, or check our website for regular updates about:
- Upcoming trail workdays and volunteer events
- Group rides and community meet-ups
- Youth cycling and NICA opportunities
- Project announcements and planning updates
10. What makes Beckley Area Trails unique?
Beckley Area Trails represents a united, regional approach to trail development and outdoor community building. We’re not just building trails — we’re building a connected outdoor culture that celebrates Appalachian heritage, community collaboration, and the natural beauty of the New River Gorge region.