🌤 Weather at North Bend Rail Trail by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30–75 °F | 58–84 °F | 31–78 °F | 21–45 °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 Harrisville, 6 mi away, elevation 823 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
West Virginia’s Epic Rail-Trail — 72-Mile Multi-Use Trail, Former B&O Railroad Corridor, 13 Tunnels, 36 Bridges, Parkersburg to Wolf Summit, Hiking Biking Horseback Riding, Ritchie Harrison Wood Doddridge Counties West Virginia
North Bend Rail Trail is a 72-mile multi-use trail spanning north-central to western West Virginia, following a former Baltimore & Ohio (B&O) Railroad corridor from I-77 near Parkersburg to Wolf Summit near Clarksburg. The trail features 13 tunnels (including the spectacular 1,186-foot Silver Run Tunnel and the 1,376-foot Eaton Tunnel), 36 bridges crossing rivers and streams, a gentle 2% grade suitable for all fitness levels, passage through North Bend State Park, historic railroad towns, and some of the most scenic rail-trail miles in the eastern United States.
The B&O Railroad Heritage
The trail follows the route of the B&O Railroad’s Parkersburg Branch, which operated from the mid-1800s through the 1980s, connecting the Ohio River at Parkersburg with the rail junction at Clarksburg. After rail service was discontinued, the corridor was converted into a recreational trail that preserves the engineering marvels of 19th-century railroad construction. The trail’s gentle grade never exceeds 2%, making it accessible to cyclists of all abilities, families with young children, and wheelchair users along many sections.
Tunnels, Bridges, and Scenic Highlights
The trail’s 13 tunnels are among its most thrilling features. The 1,376-foot Eaton Tunnel and the 1,186-foot Silver Run Tunnel plunge riders into cool darkness beneath the Appalachian hills — a flashlight or headlamp is essential. The 36 bridges cross the North Fork of the Hughes River, various creeks, and deep hollows, offering elevated views of wooded valleys and riparian corridors. The trail passes through a diverse landscape of hardwood forests, agricultural valleys, small towns, and the scenic North Fork Hughes River valley.
Trail Access and Towns
Major access points include Walker (western terminus), Pennsboro, Ellenboro, Harrisville, Cairo (at North Bend State Park), and Wolf Summit (eastern terminus). The trail passes directly through North Bend State Park, which serves as a popular base camp with lodge, cabins, camping, and restaurant facilities. Small towns along the route offer food, water, and local hospitality, making multi-day trips practical and enjoyable.
Activities and Regulations
The trail is open for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing. It connects with North Bend State Park’s additional 20+ miles of hiking trails, creating a comprehensive trail network. The trail surface is primarily packed crushed stone and gravel, suitable for hybrid and mountain bikes. Motorized vehicles are prohibited except for authorized maintenance equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the North Bend Rail Trail?
The trail is 72 miles long, stretching from I-77 near Parkersburg to Wolf Summit near Clarksburg.
Are the tunnels safe to ride through?
Yes, but bring a flashlight or headlamp — several tunnels are long enough to be completely dark in the middle. The tunnel floors can be wet and uneven in places.
Is there an entrance fee?
There is no entrance fee for the trail. It is free and open year-round.
Wildlife & Nature
North Bend Rail Trail — a 72-mile rail trail through central West Virginia featuring 13 tunnels and 36 bridges. The trail’s hardwood forest, streams, and mountain terrain support white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and songbirds.
Nearby Attractions
Parkersburg — western end. North Bend SP — along the trail. Burnsville Lake — eastern end.
Nearby state parks: If you have extra time, North Bend State Park is a short drive away, and Cedar Creek State Park is within about an hour’s drive.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at North Bend Rail 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 North Bend Rail 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
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