Spruce Knob & Smoke Hole Canyon (Smoke Hole Rd / FS-104)
A rugged mixed-surface adventure running through the towering limestone canyon of Smoke Hole along the South Branch Potomac River, before climbing Forest Road 104 to Spruce Knob (4,863 ft), the highest point in West Virginia. Smoke Hole Road features single-lane shelf asphalt cut into sheer cliffs, leading into graded gravel switchbacks ascending through wind-stunted spruce forests. Offers breathtaking alpine tundra vistas and total immersion in the Allegheny wilderness.
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Dramatic 19th-century mountain water gap where the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers roar together through towering slate cliffs. A timeless historic enclave filled with Civil War lore, John Brown's fort, and red-brick armory buildings nestled in the shadow of Maryland Heights.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many curves and miles is Spruce Knob & Smoke Hole Canyon (Smoke Hole Rd / FS-104)? ▼
Spruce Knob & Smoke Hole Canyon (Smoke Hole Rd / FS-104) spans 34 miles and packs approximately 145 curves (4.3 curves per mile) with an elevation delta of 1,050 ft - 4,863 ft and technical rating 7.0/10.
Where are the start and end coordinates? ▼
The route starts at Petersburg / Cabins, WV (Latitude 38.9893, Longitude -79.1764) and finishes at Spruce Knob Summit (Highest in WV), WV (Latitude 38.6998, Longitude -79.5328).
How can I download the GPX file for GPS navigation? ▼
Click the "Download Free GPX" button on this guide. The standard XML file is 100% free and ready to load into Garmin zūmo, BMW Motorrad Connected, Rever, Scenic, or Google Maps.