Burnwood Trail
Rated as an easy to hike, the Burnwood Trail takes visitors on a 1.2-mile loop through one of New River Gorge and Preserve's rare old-growth forests.
Plan Around Burnwood Trail
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Burnwood Trail Details
Rated as an easy to hike, the Burnwood Trail takes visitors on a 1.2-mile loop through one of New River Gorge and Preserve's rare old-growth forests. The trail begins with a gentle incline before winding through a mix of previously logged areas and untouched woodlands. Along the way, hikers navigate soft forest paths shaded by towering trees that have stood for centuries. Marked clearly and well-maintained, the trail is suitable for families and individuals looking for a peaceful yet immersive nature experience. On average, it takes about 45 minutes to complete. The Burnwood Trail serves as an outdoor classroom, showcasing the biodiversity and ecological significance of old-growth forests. The area is home to some of the region's oldest trees, with certain specimens dating back to the 1600s. As visitors move through the forest, they may notice the distinct bark patterns of ancient oaks and poplars, along with fallen logs and rich undergrowth that support a thriving habitat for insects, fungi, and wildlife. Interpretive materials available through the National Park Service offer deeper insights into the forest's history and conservation efforts. This trail also reveals traces of human history, passing through the remnants of the Laing family homestead, where subtle signs of past land use-such as old fence lines and varying tree ages-tell the story of the people who once lived here. Located just across from the Canyon Rim Visitor Center, the Burnwood Trail is an easily accessible yet serene escape into a historic Appalachian landscape, offering a glimpse into both the past and the delicate balance of a thriving forest ecosystem.
Difficulty
Open
Distance
1.2 Miles
Estimated time
45 Minutes
Region
N/A
Nearby Parks Around Burnwood Trail
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Nearby Points of Interest Around Burnwood Trail
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0.2 mi away
Canyon Rim Boardwalk
This 0.6-mile round-trip boardwalk is all about instant gratification, leading you straight to one of the park's most iconic sights: the New River Gorge Bridge, arching gracefully over the rugged Appalachian landscape.
0.3 mi away
Southern End of the New River Gorge Bridge
While the New River Gorge Bridge itself steals the headlines, the southern end of the bridge is where the real exploration begins.
0.3 mi away
New River Gorge Bridge Overlooks
The New River Gorge Bridge Overlooks offer some of the most awe-inspiring views in the region.
0.3 mi away
Canyon Rim Visitor Center
The Canyon Rim Visitor Center, located just north of Fayetteville, West Virginia, serves as the premier gateway to New River Gorge and Preserve.
0.3 mi away
Canyon Rim Visitor Center
If you're venturing into New River Gorge & Preserve, the Canyon Rim Visitor Center is your first stop for a perfect introduction to this stunning landscape.
