Keeneys Creek Trail

West Virginia

2 Reviews

Located in the gorgeous New River Gorge in rural West Virginia, the Keeney's Creek Trail is a gravel trail that doubles as a road for park service vehicles. Although built on top of an abandoned railroad line, the trail has a steeper grade than your typical rail-trail, as it winds through forest and across several creeks and rivulets, offering up views of the pristine river gorge.

The trail runs through the grounds of the historic Nuttallburg coal complex, which was owned by Henry Ford and is an absolute must-see for anyone interested in the area's industrial history. Recently restored by the National Park Service and opened to the public, the site is regarded as one of the best examples of a historic coal community in the nation. The Keeney's Creek Trail provides access to several shorter (but somewhat strenuous) hiking trails that allows you to learn about the various machinery involved in coal production, and exhibits along the way detail the history of the area and its residents. Due to the trail's remote location, trail users are advised to pick up a map from the nearby Canyon Rim Visitors Center outside Fayetteville to ensure you don't get lost and are able to enjoy this hidden, historic gem of a trail.

Parking and Trail Access

Parking and restrooms are available at the Nuttallburg trailhead, on the trail's western end.

To reach the Nuttallburg trailhead from the direction of Charleston, take I-64 south to exit 60, and head east on Hwy 612. Take Hwy 612 until you reach US-19, then proceed north on US-19 through Fayetteville. You will cross the New River and pass the Canyon Rim Visitors Center, and take a right onto Lansing-Edmond Road. Continue on as it turns into CR-82 and proceed into Winona, then turn right onto Keeneys Creek Road (CR-85/2). The trail begins where the road turns to gravel, but you may wish to proceed to the main parking area down the road.