These 5 Trails In West Virginia Will Lead You To Extraordinary Ruins
The lush forests of West Virginia provide some of the best spots in the country to go hiking, and often you’ll find intriguing surprises along the way. Explore these trails to discover abandoned railway tunnels, bits and pieces of crumbled ghost towns, old mining equipment, and more forgotten remnants of civilization that are returning to nature. These West Virginia trails that lead to ruins can’t be passed up – trust us!
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You'll also pass by the remnants of old towns, and many old railroad tunnels. The trail in its entirety is 72 miles long, so check out this link to see some highlights if you're not exactly excited to trek the entire thing. It's not very often that you find yourself in the company of abandoned tunnels and forgotten railways, so make sure you bring a camera!
To figure out how to get there, visit this link for a map!
Both the derelict railroad and the nearby ghost town of Sewell have generally been returned to nature, but you might find an occasional section of railroad track, or an orphaned building foundation from the town if you decide to poke around. The Narrow Gauge Trail leads to Old Sewell Road, which you can continue to follow if you so wish. It stays interesting, to say the least.
To figure out how to get there, visit this link for a map!
3. Kaymoor Miners Trail, New River Gorge National River
It's the site of an abandoned coal mine, too. We don't recommend entering abandoned mines, though, so admire it from afar, please. Read more about the town and what's left of it here. Portions of the surrounding trails may or may not be closed, so check the NPS website to see if there are any current closures.
To figure out how to get there, visit this link for a map!
4. Nuttallburg Trails, New River Gorge National River
This former coal town is slowly returning to the forest, but parts of it can still be seen along the trails and in the surrounding woods, and many of the mining areas are remarkably well-preserved. Click here for more information about the trails. Some of the trails around Nuttallburg occasionally experience closures, so make sure to check here for the latest information.
To figure out how to get there, visit this link for a map!
5. The Clay Furnace or Clay Run Trails, Coopers Rock State Forest
This hike will take you to the old Henry Clay Iron Furnace from the 1800s. Find out more about the trail options here.
To figure out how to get there, visit this link for a map!
For more great hiking in West Virginia, check out these 9 West Virginia trails that will lead you to unforgettable places. Do you think you have what it takes to conquer these West Virginia trails that lead to ruins (among other things)?
Address: North Bend Rail-Trail, Salem, WV, USA
Address: Narrow Gauge Trail, New Haven, WV 25831, USA
Address: Kaymoor Rd, Fayetteville, WV 25840, USA
Address: Nuttallburg, New Haven, WV 25840, USA
Address: Clay Run Trail, Huttonsville, WV 26294, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
West Virginia Trails That Lead to Ruins
February 19, 2021
Tori Jane
Where is there good hiking in West Virginia?
West Virginia is the proud home to over 550 trails just waiting to be explored. No matter what part of the state you’re in, you’re very, very likely to find some beautiful trails close to you. They vary in difficulty from beginner/easy to hard/strenuous, so no matter what your skill level, no worries – there’s a trail in West Virginia for you.
What are some unique trails in West Virginia?
There’s several super-unique trails throughout West Virginia. One of our favorites is definitely the North Bend Rail Trail, a 72-mile-long stretch of woodsy paradise in which you’ll encounter a 2,297 foot long tunnel, as well as an allegedly haunted tunnel. Dare you trek the distance? Dare you face the spirits of the tunnel? Only the brave ever try it. We have faith in you.
What are the most popular trails in West Virginia?
Considering that there are over 550 trails scattered throughout the state to choose from, there are some trails that stick out above the rest in terms of popularity. The Maryland Heights Loop is a beautiful but strenuous trail in Harpers Ferry National Historic Park, while the Endless Wall Trail is a low-key, easy-going trail in New River Gorge. Both are ultra-popular with hikers, and you can’t go wrong with either one.
Address: North Bend Rail-Trail, Salem, WV, USA
Address: Narrow Gauge Trail, New Haven, WV 25831, USA
Address: Kaymoor Rd, Fayetteville, WV 25840, USA
Address: Nuttallburg, New Haven, WV 25840, USA
Address: Clay Run Trail, Huttonsville, WV 26294, USA
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Rachel is proud to live in wild and wonderful West Virginia. She enjoys nature walks, photography, and discovering new restaurants all around the state.
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