Follow This Abandoned Railroad Trail For One Of The Most Unique Hikes In West Virginia
Of the many paths that West Virginia’s nature trails lead — through woods, across rivers, streams, and waterfalls — only one follows an abandoned rail line, through 10 tunnels and over 38 bridges.



Throughout the war, several Confederate raids were made on these tunnels. At the time, many of the tunnels were constructed out of wood, so the primary purpose of these raids was to burn them. Southern troops also tore up the tracks along several areas to further halt supply trains transporting weapons and provisions to Union forces. After the war, the tunnels were reconstructed or repaired with stone or brick.

Once this occurred, the North Bend Rails to Trails Foundation was formed to re-purpose the decommissioned line into the multi-use recreational trail it is today. The trail is part of North Bend State Park. It is also a small section of the 5,500 mile American Discovery Trail, which stretches from coast-to-coast.



Tunnel #19, also known as Silver Run Tunnel, is said to be haunted by a pale woman with long black hair. Eyewitness accounts go as far back as the late 1800s. Legend says that the woman is the ghost of a bride who was struck and killed by a train near the tunnel's entrance. The tunnel itself is 1,376 feet long and very dark, even during the day.


So, if you would like to hike or bike a truly unique trail, look no further than this one. The trail can be accessed at almost any point along its stretch.
Have you ever hiked to the North Bend Rail Trail? Feel free to comment below and tell us about your visit.
The NBRT is not the only West Virginia trail steeped in history. Check out these 6 hiking trails that lead to some incredible prices of history.