#NRGTrailChallenge: Every Trail. Every Mile. Will You Conquer the Gorge?

Written By Elisabeth Crabtree
 

September Trails

Needleseye Park

1.8 miles

Take a hike to see how the Needleseye Park got its name. This is a newer boulder park that recently opened and this is a great opportunity to explore all that the Needleeye has to offer. Don’t forget the side quest to see the Needleseye!

Start Here

Detailed Directions on AllTrails Here

Kaymoor Trail (Cunard to Elverton)

5.6 miles

Explore one of the many trails that wonder around the Kaymoor mines. Don’t be afraid to add a few extra miles and continue exploring.

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Directions: Turn around at the fork, where the trail splits towards Elverton Rd.

Hawks Nest Rail Trail to Lover's Leap Tram

3.8 miles

Enjoy beautiful waterfalls and peaceful riverside views on this shaded hike. Don’t forget to bring a picnic! This trail is also part of the Mountain Mile Trail.

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Detailed Directions on AllTrails Here

August Trails

  • Enjoy an easy, family-friendly hike along a peaceful gravel road. Along the way, you’ll find three scenic spur trails leading down to the river, plus plenty of stunning views of the water and the dam.

    Start Here

    Detailed Directions on AllTrails Here

  • Easy walk through wooded terrain with views of Summersville lake along the way.  Make it to the end and reward yourself with a stunning overhead view of the lake that makes it a local favorite!

    Start Here

    Detailed Directions on AllTrails Here

  • This scenic trail winds through wooded terrain with sweeping views of the Gauley River bend. Along the way, discover Civil War history at several markers—perfect for nature and history lovers alike.

    Start Here

    Detailed Directions on AllTrails Here

  • A moderately challenging woodland trail with abundant wildlife and a stunning river view at the finish.

    Start Here

    Detailed Directions on AllTrails Here

July Trails

  • Enjoy an easygoing walk along this peaceful, wooded route. If you're up to it, take the climber trail branching off from the main path. It’s a bit steep, but the trek is worth the gorgeous falls waiting for you at the end.

    Start Here

    More info on AllTrails Here

  • Wander through quiet woods and beneath a towering interstate bridge on this scenic trail. Along the way, you’ll be treated to stunning views—including picturesque waterfalls. While a few rock slides add some adventure, the route remains generally easy and enjoyable for most hikers.

    Start Here      

    More info on AllTrails Here

  • Enjoy this easy, well-marked loop trail filled with natural beauty. Along the way, you’ll spot a variety of native plants, colorful wildflowers, fascinating mushrooms, and maybe even some local wildlife.

    Start Here      

    More info on AllTrails Here

June Trails

  • Explore a scenic stone and dirt path that winds through impressive rock formations made of Nuttall sandstone. This trail connects to the Fayetteville Trail and leads beneath the iconic New River Gorge Bridge. Along the way, take in breathtaking viewpoints overlooking the gorge and the dramatic cliffs that rise across from you—a perfect route for adventure and unforgettable views.

    Start Here

    More Info on AllTrails Here

  • This two-mile trail leads to the historic Brooklyn coal mine site, where remnants of the old mine—still visible just off the trail—tell the story of the area's past. Enjoy filtered views of the river through the trees as you walk along this former road, now a shared hiking and equestrian trail that offers a quiet escape into nature and history. 

    Start Here

    More Info on AllTrails Here

  • Discover the beauty of West Virginia on the Summersville Lake Trail—a scenic route that winds through lush woodlands and rugged, rocky terrain. As you hike, enjoy sweeping views of crystal-clear Summersville Lake, with plenty of spots to pause and take in the landscape. 

    Start Here

    More Info on AllTrail Here

May Trails

  • Wander down this leaf-strewn trail and soak in breathtaking views of the New River Gorge Bridge!

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    More Info on AllTrails Here

  • Traverse a peaceful, shaded trail beneath a canopy of trees, leading you to a quiet pond surrounded by vibrant green foliage.

    Start Here

    More Info on AllTrails Here

  • 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.

    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

  • 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!

    Start Here

    More Info on AllTrails Here

  • Savor the serenity of this peaceful out-and-back hike, featuring stunning river views and scattered remnants of historic mining structures.

    Start Here or Brooklyn Campground

    More Info on AllTrails Here

  • 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.

    Start Here

    More Info on AllTrails Here

March Trails

  • A winding stairway leading to fantastic views of the Gorge and Bridge. Make sure to stop at the National Park visitor’s center for some local history and interactive exhibits.

    Start Here

    More info on AllTrails Here

  • A peaceful wooded hike that takes you right under the bridge and ends with a peak at the very scenic Wolf Creek Falls.

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    More info on AllTrails Here

  • A scenic 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.

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    More info on AllTrails Here

February Trails

  • 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.

    Start Here or Here

    More info on AllTrails Here

  • 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.

    Start Here

  • We’re returning to finish the Rend Trail, this time from the Thurmond side. Explore old rail lines, area history, and a hidden cliffside profile.

    Start Here

January Trails

  • 2.5 miles of peaceful out-and-back rail grade along a rhododendron-lined creek.

    Start Here

  • A serene forest track ending in beautiful views of the Gorge and a peak at Kaymoor mine.

    Start Here

    More info on AllTrails Here

  • Enjoy cascading waterfalls and a suspension bridge, plus a look at the iconic Glade Creek Grist Mill.

    Start Here

    More info on AllTrails Here

Elisabeth Crabtree
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