Brooklyn to Southside Junction:
West Virginia
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Description:
As it weaves past long-abandoned mining towns such as Red Ash and Rush Run, the Brooklyn to Southside Junction Trail tells the unique story of 'King Coal"" and Appalachia. Once an important transportation corridor used to haul coal from the remote New River Gorge, this recycled railroad corridor now brings new life into the area as a tourist attraction.
Never more than 100 yards from the New River, this trail provides users with an up-close look at the natural beauty found within and along the New River Gorge National River. A forest of large oak trees, rhododendron, and evergreens envelope you as the trail meanders along the bank of the river. One of the most popular among the area's many trails, this trail is particularly attractive to mountain bikers who enjoy the rough riding provided by exposed railroad ties along its route.
Beginning at the Brooklyn trailhead, head south along the New River. Listen for the exuberant screams of whitewater rafters on the water, one of the finest whitewater rivers in the eastern US. Active railroad tracks at Southside Junction signal the temporary end of the trail. While the trail extends past these tracks to a trailhead at Southside Junction, a legal (and safe) crossing here is currently not available. According to the National Park Service, negotiations are underway, but in the interim, please respect this private property and keep clear of the tracks.
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Parking & Trail Access:
To reach the Brooklyn trailhead from Beckley, take US Route 19 north to Fayetteville. Take State Route 16 south through Fayetteville and turn left onto Gatewood Road. Turn left at the Cunard turnoff and follow signs to Cunard River Access. Once you reach the river- access area, continue 1 mile up the gravel road to the Brooklyn trailhead, where parking is available.
The Southside Junction end is not recommended as a start for the trail-the active rail line perpendicular to the trail often blocks access to the trailhead, making crossing hazardous.
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Reviews: [1 trail ratings]
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The Southside Trail review
By kredinger in August, 2010
I detailed our experience on this trail - it was absolutely wonderful!! You can see it here:

http://fitnessandtheaveragejanie.blogspot.com/2010/08/finding-rails-to-trails-beauty-in-west.html
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