Greenbrier River Trail

West Virginia’s Premier Rail-Trail — 78-Mile Multi-Use Trail, Former C&O Railroad Corridor, 35 Bridges, 2 Tunnels, Cass to North Caldwell, Greenbrier River Valley, Pocahontas and Greenbrier Counties West Virginia

Greenbrier River Trail is a 78-mile multi-use rail-trail following the former Chesapeake & Ohio (C&O) Railway corridor along the scenic Greenbrier River from Cass Scenic Railroad State Park in the north to North Caldwell (near Lewisburg) in the south, passing through Pocahontas and Greenbrier Counties. The trail features 35 bridges spanning the Greenbrier River and mountain streams, 2 tunnels including the dramatic Sharps Tunnel and Droop Mountain Tunnel, consistently gentle grade under 1%, passage through some of West Virginia’s most spectacular mountain scenery, riverside camping, and world-class long-distance cycling and hiking.

The C&O Railway Heritage

The trail follows the route of the C&O Railway’s Greenbrier Branch, which operated from the 1890s until 1978, serving the logging, coal, and lumber industries of the Greenbrier Valley. After rail service ended, the corridor was acquired by the state and converted into what has become one of the most acclaimed rail-trails in the eastern United States. The trail’s grade never exceeds 1%, reflecting its railroad heritage, making it accessible to cyclists and hikers of virtually all fitness levels.

Bridges, Tunnels, and Scenic Highlights

The trail’s 35 bridges cross and recross the Greenbrier River and its tributaries, offering constantly changing perspectives of the river valley. Two tunnels — Sharps Tunnel (511 feet) and Droop Mountain Tunnel (402 feet) — provide dramatic passage through mountain ridges. The trail winds through a landscape of towering Appalachian mountains, riverside meadows, dense hardwood forests, and small mountain communities, with the Greenbrier River as a constant companion providing fishing, swimming, and paddling opportunities.

Trail Communities and Access

The trail passes through or near several charming Appalachian towns including Cass, Clover Lick, Marlinton (the “gateway” to the trail), Buckeye, Seebert, Renick, Anthony, Caldwell, and North Caldwell. Marlinton serves as the trail’s primary hub with restaurants, lodging, bike shops, and shuttle services. Multiple trailheads provide access at regular intervals, making day trips and multi-day adventures equally practical.

Activities and Camping

The trail accommodates hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding (on designated sections), cross-country skiing, and nature observation. The trail surface is primarily packed crushed limestone, ideal for hybrid and mountain bikes. Primitive riverside campsites along the trail enable multi-day cycling and hiking trips. The Greenbrier River alongside the trail offers excellent smallmouth bass and trout fishing, swimming holes, and paddling.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Greenbrier River Trail?

The trail is 78 miles from Cass to North Caldwell, making it one of the longest rail-trails in the eastern United States.

Is the trail suitable for beginner cyclists?

Yes, the trail’s grade never exceeds 1% and the surface is packed crushed limestone. It is ideal for cyclists of all skill levels, including families with children.

Is there an entrance fee?

There is no entrance fee. The trail is free and open year-round.

Wildlife & Nature

Greenbrier River Trail — 78-mile rail trail following the Greenbrier River through the Allegheny Mountains. Hardwood forest, tunnels, and river support black bears, white-tailed deer, and trout.

Nearby Attractions

Lewisburg — southern end. Cass Scenic Railroad SP — near northern end.