North Bend Rail Trail

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.