#NRGTrailChallenge: Every Trail. Every Mile. Will You Conquer the Gorge?
August Trails
Hawk’s Nest Dam Trail via Cotton Hill
1.7 Miles
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.
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Detailed Directions on AllTrails Here
Long Point Trail-Summersville
4 Miles
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!
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Detailed Directions on AllTrails Here
Patterson Trail
2 Miles
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.
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Detailed Directions on AllTrails Here
Old Ferry Road Trail
2.5 Miles
A moderately challenging woodland trail with abundant wildlife and a stunning river view at the finish.
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Detailed Directions on AllTrails Here
July Trails
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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.
More info on AllTrails Here
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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.
More info on AllTrails Here
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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.
More info on AllTrails Here
June Trails
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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.
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More Info on AllTrails Here
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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.
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More Info on AllTrails Here
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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.
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More Info on AllTrail Here
May Trails
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Traverse a peaceful, shaded trail beneath a canopy of trees, leading you to a quiet pond surrounded by vibrant green foliage.
More Info on AllTrails Here
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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.
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
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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!
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More Info on AllTrails Here
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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
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March Trails
February Trails
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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.
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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.
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January Trails
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2.5 miles of peaceful out-and-back rail grade along a rhododendron-lined creek.
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