The Meadow River Rail Trail is one of Southern West Virginia’s emerging outdoor destinations. Following the path of a historic railroad line along the Meadow River, the trail offers a scenic experience for cyclists, walkers, and outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the natural beauty of the region.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or looking for a new place to ride, the Meadow River Rail Trail provides a unique opportunity to experience the landscape of the Meadow River Valley.
A Trail Built on History
Like many rail trails across Appalachia, the Meadow River Rail Trail follows a historic rail corridor that once supported the region’s timber and railroad industries.
Today, the trail is being transformed into a recreational destination that connects communities, highlights the natural beauty of the Meadow River, and provides new opportunities for outdoor exploration in Southern West Virginia.
What to Expect on the Trail
The Meadow River Rail Trail is ideal for riders and walkers looking for a scenic and relaxed outdoor experience. The trail runs alongside the Meadow River, offering views of forested hillsides, river bends, and the rugged Appalachian landscape.
Visitors can expect:
• Gentle grades typical of rail trails
• Scenic river views
• Quiet stretches of nature
• Opportunities for wildlife sightings
The trail is suitable for a wide range of users, including casual cyclists, families, hikers, and nature lovers.
Planning Your Visit
Before heading out on the trail, it helps to plan your ride.
Consider:
• Where you will start and finish your trip
• Trail conditions and weather
• How you will return to your starting point
Because many riders prefer to travel one direction along the trail, transportation planning is an important part of the experience.
Shuttle Services and Bike Rentals
Meadow River Guides & Gear offers shuttle service and bicycle rentals for visitors looking to explore the Meadow River Rail Trail without worrying about transportation logistics.
Our shuttle service allows riders to enjoy a one-way journey along the trail while we handle the transportation between trail access points.
This makes it easy to enjoy the full experience of the Meadow River Rail Trail without needing multiple vehicles.
A Growing Outdoor Destination
The Meadow River Rail Trail is part of a larger effort to expand outdoor recreation opportunities throughout the Meadow River region.
As trail development continues, visitors can expect even more opportunities to explore the area’s rivers, forests, and scenic landscapes.
For anyone looking to experience a quieter side of outdoor adventure in West Virginia, the Meadow River Rail Trail is well worth the visit.