Brooklyn Mine Trail

This 2.7-mile out-and-back follows an old coal mining road through dense forest to the Brooklyn Mine site. Moderate elevation gain (421 ft) and steady climbing make it a proper workout, but the reward is peace and river views through the trees. Historic ruins and the quiet forest canopy make this a thinking hiker's trail—good for solitude seekers. Plan 4–5 hours round-trip depending on fitness.

Quick facts

Distance Miles: 2.7
Route Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Elevation Gain Feet: 421

Trail profile

Distance Miles: 2.7
Route Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Elevation Gain Feet: 421
Estimated Time: 4 hours if you're fit, 5–6 if you stop for mine ruins photos and admire the forest canopy.
Trail Surface: Old road—packed dirt and gravel with rooty sections in shaded areas
Trail Features: Historic Brooklyn coal mine ruins
River views through forest canopy
Old mining road
Dense forest shade
Industrial heritage remnants
Trail Highlights: Historic Brooklyn coal mine site at the turnaround; scenic river views glimpsed through trees along the old road; peaceful forest solitude away from crowds

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location: From Route 19, follow Route 16 south through Fayetteville. Turn left on Gateway Road (sign for Kaymoor/Cunard). Follow for 4.6 miles, then left at Cunard sign. Go 1.8 miles and turn left at both Cunard River Access Road signs. Parking on right, 0.5 miles past trailhead.
Shuttle Required: 0
Shuttle Details: Not required; you drive to the trailhead parking area.

Permits & conditions

Permit Details: No permits required
Fees: Free—New River Gorge has no entrance fee
Trail Status: Open year-round
Seasonal Closures: None; park is open 24/7 year-round. Winter may add mud and slick footing on old road surface.

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead: 0
Water Sources: Dry trail. Carry 2 liters minimum. No creek crossings or water sources on trail.
Accessibility: Old road with moderate grades (4.38% average slope). Rooty sections in shaded forest; footing is uneven in places. Not wheelchair accessible. Manageable for most hikers with moderate fitness.

Safety & strategy

Hazards: Loose gravel on old road
Steep descent stresses knees
Unstable historic structures at mine site
Black bears in area
Hazard Details: Old road surface sheds loose gravel, especially on descent. Historic mine structures are unstable—stay on marked trail and do not enter ruins. Black bears inhabit this area; make noise, especially in brushy sections. No major cliff exposure but 421 ft of elevation loss tests your quads hard.
Best Season: Spring (May–June) and fall (September–October)
Best Time To Visit: May–June and September–October. Spring brings stable temps and lower bug pressure; fall offers cooler conditions and easier climbing. Summer is passable but can be humid in the forest canopy. Winter adds mud and slick footing on the old road—use trekking poles.
Tips Advice: Tighten your boots—old road surface sheds loose gravel, especially on descent
Carry 2 liters of water minimum; no water sources on trail
Start early to beat weekend crowds and secure parking
Bring trekking poles for the 421 ft descent; loose gravel punishes your knees
Make noise—black bears inhabit the area; keep kids within eyeshot
Historic mine site is unstable—stay on marked trail, do not enter ruins

More details

Park Area: Cunard/Thurmond Area
Trail Markers: Well-marked. Trail is labeled (1) on the Cunard, Thurmond and Stone Cliff Area Trails map. Old road is obvious and easy to follow.
Biking Allowed: Yes—trail type includes biking and equestrian use
Shade Level: Mostly shaded—dense forest canopy throughout protects from sun exposure
Map Recommended: 1
Mud Season: Winter and early spring (December–March) add mud on old road; typically passable but trekking poles mandatory for stable footing.
Bug Season: Summer (June–August) peaks for mosquitoes and biting flies in forest shade; bug spray is essential, not optional.
Insider Tips: The mine ruins are a photo stop, but resist the urge to enter unstable structures
Return before dark; the old road is more treacherous in low light and loose gravel
Bug spray is essential June–August; blackflies in the forest canopy are relentless
Weekday visits are quiet; weekends can fill the small parking area by mid-morning
Family Friendly Notes: Suitable for families with basic hiking fitness. Moderate 2.7-mile one-way and steady (not steep) climbing works for kids ages 8+. Keep children within sight—old road borders forest edge. Historic mine site is unstable; supervise around ruins and do not allow climbing on structures.
Review Summary: Hikers prize this trail for solitude and historic interest—the Brooklyn coal mine site is a tangible link to Appalachian industrial heritage. The moderate climb and forest setting attract families and history buffs equally. Most report the old road surface is forgiving compared to rocky mountain trails.

Location

Frequently asked questions

Is this trail suitable for beginners?

Moderate difficulty—yes, if you're a beginner with some hiking experience. The steady grade and old road surface are forgiving. Plan 4–5 hours and bring trekking poles for the descent to protect your knees.

Are there bears on this trail?

Black bears inhabit this area, but sightings are rare on the moderately used trail. Make noise, hike in groups, and store food/trash properly at parking. Don't approach wildlife.

Is the old road surface safe?

Yes, but watch for loose gravel, especially on the descent. Footing is generally solid; it's not technical scrambling. Good boots with ankle support are mandatory.

How much water should I carry?

Carry 2 liters minimum. There are no water sources on the trail. Forest canopy can be deceptive—you're working harder than you think. Electrolyte mix is smart for longer efforts.

Can I hike this alone safely?

Yes. The trail is well-marked and moderately busy on weekends. Midweek you'll have solitude. Always tell someone where you're going and your return time. Cell service is unknown—don't rely on it.

Do I need special gear?

Trekking poles are highly recommended for the descent (421 ft down on loose gravel). Good hiking boots with ankle support are essential. Bring sun protection and bug spray even though forest provides shade.