State Parks officials also announce land purchase that will add 4.3 miles to the trail from Queen Shoals to Clendenin
West Virginia State Parks officials announced on May 15 that members of the public are invited to attend an open house to celebrate an expansion of the Elk River Trail and the opening of a new headquarters building at the Dundon Trailhead in Clay. The open house celebrating both milestones is scheduled for May 21 from 1 to 3 p.m.
Located at 12 Buffalo Creek Road, the new Elk River Trail headquarters was designed to resemble a historic train depot and sits near the original rail junction of the Buffalo Creek and Gauley Railroad and Elk River Rail Road Inc. The facility will serve as a visitor hub, housing the trail superintendent’s office, a gift shop featuring West Virginia-made products and exhibits highlighting the region’s railroad history.
“The opening of the Elk River Trail Headquarters marks a major milestone in our mission to enhance the visitor experience while honoring West Virginia’s rich industrial heritage,” said West Virginia State Parks Acting Chief of Parks Dillard Price. “By providing a central hub for trail information, local history and essential amenities, we are making it easier than ever for hikers, bikers and history enthusiasts to explore the beauty of the region.”
The building will house the trail superintendent’s office and a gift shop offering a variety of locally crafted items including Almost Heaven merchandise, state park apparel and a wide selection of West Virginia Grown food products. Additionally, the headquarters will function as a museum, showcasing local history and artifacts from the region’s historical railroad era. The headquarters will operate seasonally, from early spring to early fall.
Elk River Trail Extension Announced
West Virginia State Parks recently extended the Elk River Trail by purchasing land from the Elk River Railroad Inc., through an Abandoned Mine Lands Reclamation grant for $1.5 million. The land includes 4.3 miles of completed, ready-to-use trail from Mile Post 89.7 in Queen Shoals to Mile Post 94 in Clendenin. The newest section of trail includes one mile of paved trail to Clendenin as well as several existing park benches and a gazebo.
“This acquisition is a significant win for West Virginia’s growing rail-trail system and a testament to the power of strategic partnerships,” Price said. “By adding to the trail, including the beautifully developed section through Clendenin, we are providing visitors more seamless access to the scenic Elk River. We are proud to work alongside the Town of Clendenin to ensure this stretch remains a premier destination for outdoor recreation.”
The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources has entered into an agreement with the Town of Clendenin to operate, maintain and patrol this new section of the Elk River Trail. The WVDNR will provide support while the day-to-day operation will be administered by our partners of the town of Clendenin.
About West Virginia State Parks:
West Virginia’s state parks and forests are the vacation destination of choice for more than seven million people each year. Made up of 36 parks, nine forests and three rail trails, the West Virginia State Parks system provides endless opportunities for family fun and adventure. Make memories that last forever. Book your adventure at WVstateparks.com.
West Virginia State Parks is managed by the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources, a division of the West Virginia Department of Commerce.