Conveyor Trail in New River Gorge National Park

Conveyor Trail

The Conveyor Trail offers an immersive journey into the region's coal mining heritage.

Plan Around Conveyor Trail

A good stop is not just something to read about. Once it belongs on the day, move into a saved trip and build the route around it.

Add to tripView park guide

Use this detail page to confirm that the stop is worth it, then carry that decision into a trip draft while the park context is still fresh.

Conveyor Trail Details

The Conveyor Trail offers an immersive journey into the region's coal mining heritage. This 0.8-mile (1.29 km) trail ascends steeply from the mid-bench level near the historic mine entrance to the old Keeneys Creek railroad line, providing hikers with both a challenging workout and a unique. The Headhouse Trail or the Keeneys Creek Rail Trail, both of which connect to the Conveyor Trail. As hikers navigate the rugged zigzag path, they are treated to intermittent views of the towering coal conveyor structure and the expansive gorge below. The trail surface is notably loose and slaggy, composed of old coal debris from the conveyor, necessitating careful footing throughout the hike. Along the route, remnants of the mine's operation are evident, offering a tangible connection to the area's industrial past. Hikers are encouraged to observe these artifacts respectfully, leaving them undisturbed to preserve the historical narrative they represent. The Conveyor Trail's steep ascent results in a total elevation gain of 655 feet, with an average slope of 40.5%, making it a demanding trek suitable for experienced hikers seeking both physical challenge and historical enrichment. Given the trail's strenuous nature and uneven terrain, hikers should equip themselves with sturdy footwear and ample water. Additionally, it's advisable to check current trail conditions and potential closures before planning your hike, as sections of connecting trails, such as the Keeneys Creek Rail Trail, have experienced closures due to flooding damage.

Difficulty

Open

Distance

0.8 Miles

Estimated time

1 to 1.5 Hours

Region

N/A

Nearby Parks Around Conveyor Trail

Compare nearby parks around Conveyor Trail when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.

163.6 mi away

Shenandoah

National Park · VA

213.9 mi away

Great Smoky

National Park · NC

223.5 mi away

Cuyahoga

National Park · OH

283.2 mi away

Mammoth Cave

National Park · KY

292.0 mi away

Congaree

National Park · SC

403.5 mi away

Indiana Dunes

National Park · IN

Nearby Points of Interest Around Conveyor Trail

Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Conveyor Trail while the map context is still fresh.

0.0 mi away

Keeneys Creek Trail

The Keeneys Creek Rail Trail offers a serene 3.3-mile (one-way) adventure through West Virginia's coal mining history and natural beauty.

0.1 mi away

Town Loop Trail

Rated as a moderate hike, the Town Loop Trail immerses visitors in the historical heart of Nuttallburg, one of the most well-preserved coal mining towns within New River Gorge.

0.1 mi away

Seldom Seen Trail

The Seldom Seen Trail is a 0.3-mile (0.48 km) one-way hike or bike ride that offers an easy journey through history and nature.

0.2 mi away

Tipple Trail

The Tipple Trail is a 0.6-mile (0.96 km) one-way trail that provides a fascinating glimpse into the industrial history of the region.

0.2 mi away

Nuttallburg Trails

The Nuttallburg area of New River Gorge and Preserve offers a fascinating network of trails that immerse visitors in the region's rich coal mining history while showcasing the beauty of the Appalachian landscape.