🌤 Weather at Elk River Trail by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30–75 °F | 60–85 °F | 32–79 °F | 22–46 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Gassaway, 1 mi away, elevation 848 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
West Virginia’s Developing Rail-Trail — 73-Mile Multi-Use Trail, Former Railroad Corridor, Gassaway to Clendenin, Elk River Valley, Plus 18-Mile Buffalo Creek Extension, Braxton Clay Kanawha Counties West Virginia
Elk River Trail is a 73-mile multi-use rail-trail following a former railroad corridor along the Elk River from Gassaway in Braxton County to Clendenin in Kanawha County, West Virginia. The trail features scenic passage through the Elk River Valley, an additional 18-mile Buffalo Creek rails-with-trail extension, river access for fishing and paddling, passage through small Appalachian communities, gentle railroad-grade suitable for all fitness levels, and one of the longest developing trail corridors in the Mountain State.
Trail Overview and Development
The Elk River Trail represents one of West Virginia’s most ambitious rails-to-trails conversions, transforming a former railroad corridor into a recreational greenway through the heart of the Elk River watershed. The planned 73-mile main trail connects the towns of Gassaway, Sutton, and Duck in Braxton County through Clay in Clay County to Clendenin in Kanawha County, just upstream from Charleston. While the trail is still under development, significant sections are completed and open for public use, with ongoing construction extending usable trail miles each year.
Elk River Valley Scenery
The trail follows the Elk River through one of West Virginia’s most scenic and least-developed river valleys. The Elk River corridor features forested mountain slopes, riverside bluffs, agricultural bottomlands, and small communities that retain the character of traditional Appalachian life. The river itself is a popular destination for smallmouth bass and channel catfish fishing, kayaking, and canoeing, with trail users enjoying direct access to the water at multiple points.
Buffalo Creek Extension
An 18-mile extension along Buffalo Creek intersects with the main trail, providing additional route options and access to the Buffalo Creek watershed. This rails-with-trail section follows an active rail corridor and offers a different character from the main Elk River route, passing through narrow mountain hollows and forested valleys.
Activities and Trail Use
Completed sections of the trail accommodate hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The trail surface varies by section, with some portions featuring packed gravel and others using the original railroad ballast. The gentle railroad grade ensures accessibility for families and casual recreational users. The trail also serves as a linear greenway connecting small communities, providing residents with safe non-motorized transportation routes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the entire 73-mile trail complete?
The trail is still under development, with significant sections open for use. Check elkrivertrail.org for current trail condition and open section updates.
Is there an entrance fee?
There is no entrance fee. The trail is free and open to the public.
What kind of biking is best for this trail?
A mountain bike or hybrid bike is recommended, as trail surfaces vary and some sections use original railroad ballast.
Wildlife & Nature
Elk River Trail — follows the Elk River through the central West Virginia mountains. The trail’s river, hardwood forest, and mountain terrain support black bears, white-tailed deer, and wild turkeys. Smallmouth bass and rock bass fill the river.
Nearby Attractions
Webster County — surrounding. Holly River SP — nearby. Elk River — through the trail.
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Holly River State Park (a short drive away) or Cedar Creek State Park (a short drive away).
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Elk River Trail
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Dogs and cats (the only pets permitted) are welcome in West Virginia state parks and forests, including campgrounds and trails, if leashed, restrained, vaccinated and in good health.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Pets must be leashed and restrained at all times; in lodging public areas a sturdy leash no longer than 10 ft is required
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Select pet-friendly cabins, cottages and lodge rooms at 16 state parks and 4 state forests (e.g. Babcock, Blackwater Falls, Cacapon Resort, Twin Falls Resort); lodge rooms $25 first night + $10 each additional night per pet (capped at $75 per visit), cabins $50 first night + $5 each additional night per pet
- Pet fees statewide rule
- Lodging pet fees: lodge rooms $25 first night + $10/additional night per pet (max $75/visit); cabins $50 first night + $5/additional night per pet
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Only dogs and cats permitted; maximum two pets in pet-friendly lodging; rabies certification required for lodging stays
Are dogs allowed at Elk River Trail?
Dogs and cats (the only pets permitted) are welcome in West Virginia state parks and forests, including campgrounds and trails, if leashed, restrained, vaccinated and in good health. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via wvstateparks.com. More: West Virginia state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
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