A NEW WELCOME TO THE ELK RIVER TRAIL Submitted by Madison Stone, Executive Director of the Elk River Trail Foundation
B
ig things are happening on the Elk River Trail, and we couldn’t be more excited to share them with you! This
spring marked an exciting milestone with the opening of
the new Elk River Trail Visitors Center at our Dundon Trailhead, located at 12 Buffalo Creek Road in Clay. Following a successful soft opening on May 21, the center is now officially open and wel-
coming visitors from across the state. The new visitors center serves as both a welcoming hub for trail users and a tribute to the rich railroad heritage that helped shape this region. Inside, visitors can explore a small museum showcasing the history of the railroad and its impact on the Elk River communities. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a longtime resident, or someone discovering the area for the first time, the exhibits offer a glimpse into the stories that helped build our region. We were honored to celebrate this exciting occasion with Governor Patrick Morrisey and other state and local leaders at the opening ceremony. Their presence highlighted the growing recognition of the Elk River Trail as one of West Virginia’s premier outdoor recreation destinations and underscored the importance of investing in outdoor recreation, tourism, and community development. The Dundon Trailhead is also home to one of the Governor’s designated Mountaineer Mile routes, making it the perfect place to enjoy a walk, get some fresh air, and experience the trail firsthand. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll, a bike
River Trail. As visitation continues to grow, this facility will help connect visitors to our communities, our history, and the outdoor experiences that make this region so special. With 72 miles of trail available for walking, running, cycling, and
alike to stop by and take advantage of this wonderful resource.
horseback riding, along with 102 miles of designated water trail
Rail Explorers, who are officially open for the season. Located less than half a mile from the visitor’s center, they can be easily reached by walking the rails-with-trail section along Buffalo Creek. Their rail-bike excursions provide a unique way to
JUL 2026
a new building, it marks an exciting new chapter for the Elk
ride, or a way to stay active, we encourage residents and visitors While you’re visiting, don’t forget to check out our neighbors at
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The opening of the visitors center represents more than just
perfect for fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and float trips, the Elk River Trail and Elk River Water Trail offer something for everyone. Whether you prefer exploring on foot, by bike, horseback, or on the water, there are countless ways to experience the natural beauty of the Elk River region.
experience the beauty of the Elk River area and have quickly
No matter how you choose to spend your time outdoors, the Elk
become one of the region’s most popular attractions. If you
River Trail Headquarters and Visitors Center is the perfect place
haven’t booked your trip yet, now is the perfect time! Visit www.
to begin or end your adventure. Stop in, learn about the area’s
railexplorers.net and choose Elk River, WV under the location
rich railroad history, discover nearby attractions, and make the
tab or call 877.833.8588 to book your tour.
most of your visit. See you on the trail!