North Bend Rail-Trail

For a weekend getaway filled with small-town charm, wildlife and beautiful natural scenery, there is no better place than the North Bend Rail-Trail.

The North Bend Rail-Trail is a scenic excursion along part of the 5,500-mile, coast-to-coast American Discovery Trail. Stretching nearly 72 miles from Interstate 77 near Parkersburg (Cedar Grove) to Wolf Summit, the trail travels through an impressive 13 tunnels (10 passable), crosses 36 bridges and passes through or near an assortment of state, county and local parks.

Though it is easily accessible from Interstates 77 and 79, and it runs parallel to US Route 50, the trail passes through wild and natural areas. You will find an abundance of wildlife, including deer and beaver, and the farmland surrounding the small, rural communities that grew up along the railroad corridor provide prime bird-watching. The North Bend Rail-Trail's many points of interest and history include the former Stage Coach Inn in Pennsboro, a marble factory, hand-blown glass factories, outlet stores, arts-and-crafts markets, fairs and festivals, sites of train robberies, veterans memorials, a bike shop/general store and the legend of the ghost of tunnel 19, the Silver Run tunnel.

In the tumultuous years before the Civil War and the creation of the state of West Virginia, the rail corridor was constructed by the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad between 1853 and 1857. Thirteen of the railroad's original tunnels remain. The number 10 tunnel, west of Ellenboro, is 337 feet long and is a "raw," or natural, tunnel, meaning it was bored through solid rock. Many of the tunnels are quite long and require a flashlight or headlamp to safely navigate them.

The true gem of this trail is the stunning natural scenery. Beyond the spectacular bridges and tunnels, the undisturbed beauty you are exploring makes you feel more like the explorers Lewis and Clarke than a 21st century mountain biker or hiker. While safety is always a concern during cycling, remember to keep your head up, too, or you may miss the numerous opportunities for wildlife encounters—especially the bountiful deer.

You'll also encounter other trail users, particularly near the many quaint towns along the trail that have wholly embraced the rail-trail, building eateries that will satisfy even the hungriest of bikers and hikers. Towns such as Cairo, Pennsboro and Salem have all had restaurants pop up next to the trail. The locals are happy to share a story of the old rail line, and the staffs welcome even the sweatiest of customers.

To reach Parkersburg trailhead, take Interstate 77 to the Staunton Ave. Exit and turn east on State Route 47. Take the first right turn (about 0.2 mile from interstate) on Old SR 47. Continue about 0.7 mile and turn right on Happy Valley Road. Travel approximately 0.4 mile until you see a large house on the left. Immediately after the stone wall (Millers Landing) is the North Bend Rail-Trail. Park on the gravel section opposite the trailhead.

To begin at Wolf Summit, take US 50 to the Wolf Summit Exit north. The trail crosses the exit.