Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The old Bank of Cairo building serves as the trailside office of the North Bend Rails to
Trails Foundation.
In the tumultuous years before the Civil War and the creation of the state of
West Virginia, the rail corridor was constructed by the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad
between 1853 and 1857. Thirteen of the railroad's original tunnels remain. The num-
ber 10 tunnel, west of Ellenboro, is 337 feet long and is a “raw” or natural tunnel,
meaning it was bored through solid rock. Many of the tunnels are quite long and re-
quire a flashlight or headlamp to safely navigate them.
The true gem of this trail is the stunning natural scenery. Beyond the spectacular
bridges and tunnels, the undisturbed beauty you are exploring makes you feel more
like the explorers Lewis and Clarke than a 21st century mountain biker or hiker. While
safety is always a concern while cycling, remember to keep your head up, too, or you
may miss the numerous opportunities for wildlife encounters-especially the bountiful
deer.
You'll also encounter other trail users, particularly near the many quaint towns
along the trail that have wholly embraced the rail-trail, building eateries that will sat-
isfy even the hungriest of bikers and hikers. Towns such as Cairo, Pennsboro, and
Salem have all had restaurants pop up next to the trail. The locals are happy to share
a story of the old rail line, and the staffs welcome even the sweatiest of customers.
DIRECTIONS
To reach Parkersburg trailhead, take Interstate 77 to the Staunton Ave. exit
and turn east on WV Route 47. Take the first right turn (about 0.2 mile from in-
terstate) on Old WV Route 47. Continue about 0.7 mile and turn right on Happy
