North Bend Rail Trail Travel Guide — West Virginia

Our North Bend Rail Trail guide covers practical planning for the North Bend Rail Trail West Virginia — best time to visit, getting there, and what to do on the ground. This 72-mile multi-purpose recreation trail, stretching across north-central and western West Virginia, offers unparalleled opportunities for hiking, biking, and horseback riding through historic tunnels and over scenic bridges, connecting charming communities and showcasing the Mountain State's breathtaking countryside.

Why Visit North Bend Rail Trail

The North Bend Rail Trail is more than just a path through the woods; it's a journey through West Virginia's rich history and stunning natural beauty. We recommend it for its unique blend of outdoor adventure and cultural immersion. This trail, a former Baltimore & Ohio Railroad corridor, was constructed between 1853 and 1857 and played a significant role in the Civil War and the development of the region's oil and gas industries.

As you traverse the trail, you'll encounter 10 passable tunnels and 36 bridges, each a testament to 19th-century engineering. Imagine the cool, damp air inside the Central Station Tunnel, one of the longest at over 2,200 feet, or the eerie whispers rumored to haunt the Silver Run Tunnel. Beyond the engineering marvels, the trail offers a serene escape into nature, with opportunities to spot abundant wildlife like deer and beaver, and enjoy prime bird-watching amidst farmlands and wild areas.

The North Bend Rail Trail West Virginia is also a key segment of the 5,500-mile American Discovery Trail, making it a significant destination for cross-country adventurers. It's also part of the ambitious 1,400-mile Industrial Heartlands Trail, aiming to create a continuous loop through Pennsylvania, New York, Ohio, and West Virginia. This makes it a fantastic hub for longer, multi-state cycling or hiking expeditions.

Who It's Best For

Our team believes the North Bend Rail Trail caters to a diverse range of outdoor enthusiasts. It's ideal for:

• **Cyclists:** With its mostly flat, crushed-stone surface and minimal grade, the trail is perfect for casual family rides, cardio workouts, or long-distance cycle touring. Mountain or hybrid bikes with wider tires (1.5 inches or more) are recommended for the unpaved sections.
• **Hikers & Walkers:** The gentle terrain makes it accessible for all skill levels, offering scenic walks through forests, past rock cuts, and over bridges.
• **Horseback Riders:** The crushed-stone surface is comfortable for horses, allowing for year-round equestrian use.
• **Nature Lovers & Bird Watchers:** The trail's passage through wild and natural areas, along with farmlands, provides excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and bird-watching.
• **History Buffs:** The historical significance of the former B&O railroad, including old depots and stories of train robberies and haunted tunnels, adds a fascinating layer to the experience.
• **Families:** The relatively flat grade and numerous access points make it a family-friendly destination, with facilities like restrooms, picnic areas, and even bike fix-it stations available at various points.

Getting There & Parking

Navigating to the North Bend Rail Trail is straightforward, as it runs parallel to US Route 50 for much of its length and is easily accessible from Interstates 77 and 79. For those wondering how to get to North Bend Rail Trail, we recommend consulting the official West Virginia State Parks map or the North Bend Rails-to-Trails Foundation website for detailed trailhead information.

There are numerous access points and parking areas along the 72-mile trail, offering convenient starting points regardless of which section you plan to explore. Key parking locations include:

• **Western Terminus (Parkersburg):** Parking is available at Happy Valley Road, near Interstate 77.
• **Walker (Mile Marker 11.8):** Parking is available where the trail crosses Walker Road.
• **Petroleum (Mile Marker 18.8):** Offers parking, a shelter, pit toilet, fire ring, and camping.
• **Cairo (Mile Marker 26):** Parking is available in town, near stores and a bike shop.
• **North Bend State Park (Mile Marker 28.9):** Access to the park is about three-quarters of a mile from the trail, with parking available at the park's lodge.
• **Ellenboro (Mile Marker 33.4):** Parking, food, and restrooms are available in town.
• **Pennsboro (Mile Marker 38.7):** Parking is available at the train depot.
• **Toll Gate (Mile Marker 42.1):** Parking can be found along the trail on the west side of the road.
• **West Union:** Access in town or park above the athletic field.
• **Smithburg:** Parking at the Depot and Spencer Park.
• **Salem:** Parking available at the Depot in town.
• **Eastern Terminus (Wolf Summit/Mile Marker 70.9):** Parking is available at the current end of the open trail.

Most parking along the trail is free of charge, making it easy for overnight trips if you plan to camp or stay in nearby lodging.

Top Things to Do

The North Bend Rail Trail West Virginia offers a wealth of activities, making it a destination that rewards both active adventurers and those seeking a peaceful retreat. Here are the things to do at North Bend Rail Trail that our team highly recommends:

1. **Biking the Historic Corridor:** Cycle through the impressive network of tunnels and over bridges that once carried the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad. With its mostly crushed-stone surface and gentle grade, it's suitable for various cycling levels. Remember to bring a flashlight or headlamp for the longer tunnels, as they can be quite dark. Bike rentals are available at North Bend State Park and in Cairo.
2. **Hiking and Walking:** Explore sections of the trail on foot, taking in the picturesque scenery of forests, farmlands, and rock cuts. The trail is shared with cyclists and horseback riders, so be mindful of other users.
3. **Horseback Riding:** The crushed-stone surface provides an excellent path for equestrian adventures year-round.
4. **Tunnel Exploration:** Venture through the 10 passable tunnels, each with its own character and history. Don't miss the Central Station Tunnel, the longest, or the Silver Run Tunnel, known for its ghostly legends.
5. **Wildlife and Bird Watching:** The trail's route through diverse natural habitats makes it a fantastic spot to observe local wildlife, including deer and beaver, and a variety of bird species.
6. **Visit North Bend State Park:** Located directly adjacent to the rail trail, the state park offers additional hiking and mountain biking trails (over 20 miles of single-track), a 305-acre lake for boating and fishing, and amenities like a nature center, mini-golf, and an outdoor swimming pool.
7. **Explore Trail Towns:** Stop in charming communities like Cairo, Pennsboro, Ellenboro, and Salem. These towns offer dining, refreshments, and a glimpse into local West Virginia life. Cairo, for instance, has shops catering to trail users.
8. **Fishing:** Numerous creeks and rivers parallel and cross the trail, providing ample fishing opportunities. North Bend Lake at the state park is particularly known for bass, crappie, catfish, and musky. Remember to purchase your fishing license online beforehand.

Best Time to Visit

Our team suggests that the North Bend Rail Trail offers something special in every season, though spring and fall stand out for their comfortable temperatures and stunning natural displays.

• **Spring (April-May):** Experience the trail as wildflowers bloom and the forests come alive with vibrant greenery. Temperatures are mild, making it ideal for longer rides and hikes before the peak summer heat.
• **Summer (June-August):** While temperatures can be warm, the tunnels provide a welcome, cool respite. This is a great time for water activities at North Bend State Park's lake. Be aware that the trail can be busier, especially near trail towns and the state park.
• **Fall (September-October):** This is arguably the most picturesque time to visit, as the surrounding Appalachian hillsides ignite with brilliant autumn foliage. The cooler, crisp air is perfect for extended outdoor activities.
• **Winter (November-March):** For those who enjoy solitude and a different kind of beauty, winter offers peaceful, stark landscapes. Cross-country skiing is an option on the trail when snow conditions allow. Always check trail conditions before heading out, as some sections can be rough, especially after heavy rain.

The trail itself is generally open from 6 AM to 10 PM.

Where to Stay Nearby

Finding comfortable North Bend Rail Trail lodging is essential for a multi-day adventure. Our team recommends considering options both directly on the trail and in nearby towns.

• **North Bend State Park Lodge:** For convenience and amenities, the lodge at North Bend State Park is an excellent choice. It offers 29 guest rooms, a full-service restaurant, an outdoor swimming pool, and direct access to the rail trail. The lodge is open 24/7.
• **North Bend State Park Cabins:** For a more secluded experience, the park also features nine cozy cedar cabins, available year-round, some of which are pet-friendly.
• **North Bend State Park Camping:** Campgrounds within North Bend State Park provide a rustic yet amenity-rich option, perfect for trail users. There are also primitive camping locations along the length of the trail itself.
• **Hotels in Nearby Towns:**
  • **Ellenboro:** The Sleep Inn Ellenboro Hwy 50 is conveniently located just 2.7 miles from North Bend State Park and offers an indoor pool, complimentary breakfast, and free parking.
  • **Parkersburg/Marietta (Ohio):** For a wider range of hotel options, including well-known chains, consider Parkersburg, WV, or Marietta, OH, both within a reasonable driving distance of the western trailheads. Hotels like Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Marietta and The Blennerhassett Hotel in Parkersburg offer highly-rated stays.
  • **Pennsboro:** Vacation rentals like Rose Hill Cottage offer a charming, quiet rural stay near the trail.

When planning your North Bend Rail Trail lodging, remember that reservations for the lodge and cabins at North Bend State Park, especially during peak season, are highly recommended.

Sample 2-Day Itinerary

To truly experience the essence of the North Bend Rail Trail, we've crafted a sample 2-day itinerary, focusing on a central section to allow for exploration without excessive travel time between trailheads.

Day 1: Tunnels, Trails, and State Park Charm

• **Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM):** Begin your adventure at North Bend State Park. Rent bikes from North Bend Outfitters or the park itself. From the park, access the North Bend Rail Trail (around mile marker 28.9). Head east towards Ellenboro, enjoying the relatively flat terrain and passing through several tunnels. Be sure to use your headlamp! You'll encounter the Dick Bias Tunnel, a "raw" natural tunnel carved through solid rock.
• **Lunch (1:00 PM - 2:00 PM):** Arrive in Ellenboro (around mile marker 33.4). Grab lunch at a local eatery or a quick bite at a fast-food option like McDonald's or Dairy Queen.
• **Afternoon (2:00 PM - 5:00 PM):** Cycle back towards North Bend State Park. Once at the park, consider exploring some of the park's dedicated single-track mountain biking trails or take a leisurely hike on one of its 19 hiking trails.
• **Evening (5:00 PM onwards):** Check into the North Bend State Park Lodge or your reserved cabin. Enjoy dinner at the full-service restaurant within the lodge.

Day 2: Haunted History and Trail Town Culture

• **Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM):** After breakfast at the lodge, head west on the North Bend Rail Trail from North Bend State Park towards Cairo (around mile marker 26). This section will take you through more scenic countryside and towards the infamous Silver Run Tunnel (Tunnel No. 19), reputed to be haunted.
• **Lunch (1:00 PM - 2:00 PM):** Arrive in Cairo, a charming trail town. Explore the local shops, perhaps stopping at Cairo Outdoors for any gear needs. Enjoy lunch at one of the local eateries. Cairo has embraced the rail-trail culture, with restaurants popping up near the path.
• **Afternoon (2:00 PM - 4:00 PM):** Visit the North Bend Rails-to-Trails Foundation office, located in the historic Cairo Bank Building, to learn more about the trail's history and ongoing efforts. If your visit aligns, you might even catch the "Cairo Days" festival which takes place in June.
• **Late Afternoon (4:00 PM onwards):** Cycle back to North Bend State Park to return your bikes and conclude your rail trail adventure. Alternatively, if time allows, consider a relaxing paddle on North Bend Lake.

Is It Worth Visiting?

Our team unequivocally believes the North Bend Rail Trail West Virginia is worth visiting. It stands out as one of West Virginia's premier recreational corridors, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and accessible outdoor activities.

The trail's 72 miles of well-maintained path provide an exceptional experience for cyclists, hikers, and equestrians of all skill levels, thanks to its mostly flat grade. The opportunity to pass through 10 historic tunnels and over 36 bridges, some with fascinating legends, adds an element of adventure not found on many other trails.

Beyond the trail itself, the integration with North Bend State Park and the welcoming trail towns like Cairo and Pennsboro enhance the overall visitor experience, providing convenient amenities, lodging, and local charm. For those seeking a genuine Appalachian outdoor experience coupled with a journey through history, the answer to "is North Bend Rail Trail worth visiting?" is a resounding yes. It's a destination that truly captures the spirit of Almost Heaven, West Virginia. We encourage you to explore our guide to the Best Places in West Virginia for more inspiration.

North Bend Rail Trail Hiking Trails

While the entire 72-mile corridor serves as a fantastic multi-use path, the North Bend Rail Trail hiking trails offer distinct experiences for those who prefer to explore on foot. The relatively flat and wide surface makes it accessible for hikers of all ages and abilities.

Hikers on the North Bend Rail Trail hiking trails can enjoy:

• **Scenic Diversity:** The trail winds through dense forests, open farmlands, and dramatic rock cuts, providing constantly changing vistas. You'll witness abundant wildlife and excellent bird-watching opportunities.
• **Tunnel Adventures:** Walking through the historic tunnels is a highlight. The cool, dark passages offer a unique sensory experience, though a flashlight or headlamp is crucial for safety, especially in longer tunnels like the 2,297-foot Central Station Tunnel.
• **Bridge Crossings:** The trail crosses 36 bridges and trestles, offering elevated views of creeks and hollows below.
• **Connecting to North Bend State Park:** Hikers can easily access the extensive network of 19 dedicated hiking trails within North Bend State Park, which offers varying degrees of difficulty and excellent views of the surrounding area. This allows for a combination of rail-trail walking and more traditional woodland hiking.
• **Trail Town Exploration:** Many small communities along the trail, such as Cairo, Ellenboro, and Pennsboro, are perfect for a mid-hike break, offering places for food, water, and rest.

Our team recommends wearing sturdy footwear and carrying plenty of water, especially for longer hikes. While the grade is gentle, the length of the trail means proper preparation is key. To report any hazards, such as downed trees or aggressive dogs, contact North Bend State Park at 304-643-2931.

Last updated: 2026-07-13 by the Roam States team.