Some of the most beautiful hikes in America are found here in our own backyard in the Mountain State. Many people don’t realize how much tourism plays a role in our state’s economy, but over time it’s become the biggest industry in West Virginia. And what do they come for? The beauty! We certainly have enough of it! Speaking of which… check out the following awesome rail trail that begins near I-77 just outside Parkersburg and extends for 72 miles crossing 38 bridges and passing through 10 historic rail tunnels.
The North Bend Rail Trail is built upon the former B&O railroad line that was chartered in 1851.
Flickr/Mike (Seen above: Bonds Creek Railroad Tunnel, located three miles east of Cairo.)
In all, the trail now covers 72 scenic miles with the majority of the of the trail on an unpaved surface.
TripAdvisor/Coach T
Fortunately, for those we just don’t have several days set aside to hike the entire length, the trail is set up in various segments so you don’t have to take on the entire trek all at once.
Facebook/North Bend Rail Trail
The picturesque trail is revered as one of the most popular in the Appalachian Mountains.
Flickr/Mike
With 38 bridges and 10 tunnels, it’s also one of the most unique!
Facebook/North Bend Rail Trail
Some tunnels located along the trail are in better condition than others, and all of them have a distinct construction!
Flickr/Mike (Seen above: The Brandy Gap Tunnel is 1,060 feet in length and located east of Bristol. This image was captured in the Spring of 2016.)
Some people prefer to hike this historic passage through West Virginia…
Flickr/Mike (Part of the trail located near Ellenboro.)
… while many others make the journey on bikes. Bikes and horses are allowed and make the adventure a possible journey over the span of just one day.
Facebook/North Bend Rail Trail
For bicyclers, there are four self-serve repair stations located along the trail for easy repairs such as flat tires.
Facebook/North Bend Rail Trail
Whether you’re traveling on foot, by horseback, or on a bike, you’re sure to love any and all of the segments of this fantastic trail in the Mountain State.
Flickr/Mike (Seen above: Tunnel 6, Central, located in West Union.)
The North Bend Rail Trail essentially runs parallel to US Route 50 between Parkersburg and Grafton, although farther to the south. It’s 72 miles long, with several shorter segments available. Get more information, including directions to the various entry point/trailhead locations, at this link on the official website for the North Bend Rails To Trails Foundation.
Flickr/Mike
(Seen above: Bonds Creek Railroad Tunnel, located three miles east of Cairo.)
TripAdvisor/Coach T
Facebook/North Bend Rail Trail
(Seen above: The Brandy Gap Tunnel is 1,060 feet in length and located east of Bristol. This image was captured in the Spring of 2016.)
(Part of the trail located near Ellenboro.)
(Seen above: Tunnel 6, Central, located in West Union.)
Discover nine more epic hiking trails in the Mountain State when you keep reading here!
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