#NRGTrailChallenge: Every Trail. Every Mile. Will You Conquer the Gorge?
May Trails
Salmon Run Trail
Traverse a peaceful, shaded trail beneath a canopy of trees, leading you to a quiet pond surrounded by vibrant green foliage. 1.9 miles.
More Info on AllTrails Here
Southside Trail (Thurmond to Red Ash)
Enjoy a quiet out-and-back hike that begins in the storied town of Thurmond—once a lively coal-era train hub, now a quiet gateway to scenic trails and solitude. 6.2 miles.
Start Here More Info on All Trails Here
Hike on the Southside trail until you get to Red Ash (where you turned around last month). Make sure to check out the historic train town of Thurmond while you're there. Once a bustling center for coal, it is now the least-populous municipality in West Virginia with a population of 5 on the 2020 census!
Make sure you download the trail/map ahead of time as phone signal can be a little spotty. Don’t forget to check out the bridge before you leave!
April Trails
Conveyor Trail
This path follows the same route coal once traveled, zigzagging from the mine entrance to the Keeneys Creek railroad line with views of the conveyor and Gorge! Park at the top to save 20 minutes of driving or follow AllTrails directions to the lower lot. Either way, take some time to wander around the town of Nuttallburg and learn about the history there! 3.3 Miles.
Start Here More Info on AllTrails Here
Red Ash via Southside Trail (start Cunard River Access)
Savor the serenity of this peaceful out-and-back hike, featuring stunning river views and scattered remnants of historic mining structures. 7.7 miles.
Start Here or Brooklyn Campground More Info on AllTrails Here
Stone Cliff Trail
Enjoy a leisurely walk along this peaceful trail that follows the New River, offering several access points to sit by the water, unwind, and take in the scenic views. 5.7 miles.
Stone Cliff Trail
Red Ash Trail
March Trails:
Canyon Rim Boardwalk
A winding stairway leads to fantastic views of the Gorge and Bridge. Make sure to stop the the National Park visitor’s center for some local history and interactive exhibits. 0.4 milesStart Here
More info on AllTrails Here
Fayetteville Trail
A peaceful wooded hike that takes you right under the bridge and ends with a peak at the very scenic Wolf Creek Falls. 7.4 miles
Start HereMore info on AllTrails Here
Triple Creek Trail
A scenic 3.7-mile loop that winds through lush forest, crossing three picturesque creeks along the way. With gentle elevation changes and serene woodland views, it’s perfect for nature lovers of all levels.
Start Here
More info on AllTrails Here
February Trails:
Endless Wall
The big one! A wooded trail featuring unforgettable, picture-worthy views of the Gorge. At this time of year, you might just have it all to yourself. This 3.2 mile-loop can be started from either parking lot, just use caution on the road-walk.More info on AllTrails Here
Timber Ridge & Workmans Hollow
A serene wooded trail that ends just a short ten-minute walk from Court Street. Continue into town and reward yourself with a hot chocolate, or simply turn around and head back. 2.6 miles.
Start HereRend Trail via Thurmond
We’re returning to finish the Rend Trail, this time from the Thurmund side. Explore old rail lines, area history, and a hidden cliffside profile. 4.3 miles
Start Here
January Trails:
Rend Trail via Minden
2.5 miles of peaceful out-and-back rail grade along a rhododendron-lined creek.
Start Here
Craig Branch & Kaymoor Loop
A serene forest track ending in beautiful views of the Gorge and a peak at Kaymoor mine. 4.5 miles.
Start Here
More info on AllTrails Here
Skyline, Rocky & Narrow Gauge Loop
Enjoy cascading waterfalls and a suspension bridge, plus a look at the iconic Glade Creek Grist Mill. 4.4 Miles
Start Here
More info on AllTrails Here
