West Virginia State Parks officials have announced plans for a public open house celebrating the opening of a new Elk River Trail headquarters building and the expansion of the Elk River Trail system.
The event is scheduled for May 21 from 1 to 3 p.m. at the new headquarters facility located at 12 Buffalo Creek Road in Dundon, near Clay.
According to a press release issued Thursday, the new headquarters building was designed to resemble a historic train depot and sits near the former rail junction of the Buffalo Creek and Gauley Railroad and Elk River Rail Road Inc. The facility will serve as a visitor hub for the Elk River Trail, housing the trail superintendent’s office, a gift shop featuring West Virginia-made products and exhibits highlighting the area’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 headquarters will feature locally crafted merchandise, including Almost Heaven products, state park apparel and West Virginia Grown food items. Officials said the building will also function as a small museum showcasing artifacts and exhibits related to the region’s railroad heritage. The facility is expected to operate seasonally from early spring through early fall.
Trail Expansion Announced
State Parks officials also announced the purchase of additional land that will extend the Elk River Trail by 4.3 miles from Queen Shoals to Clendenin.
The land was purchased from Elk River Railroad Inc. through an Abandoned Mine Lands Reclamation grant totaling $1.5 million. The acquisition includes a completed, ready-to-use section of trail stretching from Mile Post 89.7 in Queen Shoals to Mile Post 94 in Clendenin.
The newly added section includes approximately one mile of paved trail leading into Clendenin, along with several park benches and a gazebo already installed along the route.
“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.”
Officials said the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources has entered into an agreement with the Town of Clendenin to operate, maintain and patrol the new section of trail. While the WVDNR will provide support, day-to-day operations will be managed by the town.
The Elk River Trail is one of West Virginia’s growing rail-trail recreation destinations, attracting hikers, cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts from across the region.
