Sturdy hiking boots (not trail runners). Trekking poles. 2 liters water minimum. Light jacket for temperature changes. Bug spray for spring/summer. The wooded canopy provides shade but mountain weather shifts fast.

Butcher Branch Trail - 0.8mi Moderate Hike

Q: Do I absolutely need trekking poles?

Yes. Poles are not optional here. The steep descent is technical and unforgiving. Poles protect your knees and stabilize you on loose rock.

Q: Can a beginner do this trail?

Not recommended. The steep pitch throughout and stream crossing demand good footwork and balance. Intermediate hikers with scrambling experience will be comfortable.

Q: What's the stream crossing like?

It's negotiable year-round but can swell after heavy rain. Use rocks or logs when available. If water reaches above your knees, turn back—don't force it.

Q: How crowded is this trail?

Moderate use. Weekends bring climbing crowds, especially spring and fall. Early morning (before 8 AM) is your peace window.

Distance

0.8 mi

Est. Time

45 minutes to 1 hour one-way (1.5 to 2 hours round-trip) depending on fitness level and scrambling comfort

Route Type

Out-and-back

Best Season

Year-round; park open 24 hours daily

Overview

About This Trail

This 0.8-mile connector climbs steep, wooded terrain through the Kaymoor area, linking the Kaymoor Top trailhead to the Long Point Trail and popular Butcher Branch climbing site. Expect relentless grade with root systems, loose rock, and a stream crossing—not beginner terrain despite short distance. The sustained uphill and technical footing demand strong quads and careful balance.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Moderate to Challenging

Trail Highlights

Gateway to the broader Kaymoor trail system and popular climbing destination. This short connector provides access to extended hiking options beyond its 0.8-mile reach.

Insider Tips

• This connector's value is access to Long Point Trail and the climbing area—not a scenic destination. Know what you're chasing before you start. • The steepest pitch hits you early; pace conservatively first 0.3 miles. • Early morning (before 8 AM) avoids climbing crowds and morning heat. • This trail makes most sense as part of a longer loop combining with Long Point Trail, not as a solo 0.8-mile venture.

Best Season to Hike

Year-round; park open 24 hours daily

Hiking Tips

Trekking poles are non-negotiable—use them on descent to protect knees on loose rock.
Scout stream level before crossing; don't ford if above knee height.
This is a connector, not a destination. Decide upfront: turn around at 0.8 miles or continue onto Long Point Trail.
Arrive before 10 AM on weekends when parking fills.
Carry 2 liters water minimum.

Family Info

Short trail (0.8 mi) but steep throughout—not suitable for young children without significant hiking experience. Parental supervision mandatory on steep sections. Stream crossing may be impassable for very young hikers depending on water level.

What Hikers Say

This short, steep connector packs serious physical demand into minimal mileage. Hikers respect it as a solid gateway to the Kaymoor system but acknowledge the relentless grade and technical stream crossing earn it intermediate status. Not a casual stroll—this is a leg-burner that demands respect.

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 0.8 miles

Duration: 45 minutes to 1 hour one-way (1.5 to 2 hours round-trip) depending on fitness level and scrambling comfort

Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

Route Type: Out-and-back

Surface: Dirt and natural rock with root systems; rooty and rough throughout

Getting There

Trailhead: From US 19, follow WV 16 south through Fayetteville. Turn left on Gatewood Road (follow brown park signs for Kaymoor). Continue 2.0 miles, turn left at Kaymoor sign (Kaymoor No. 1 Road). Proceed about 1 mile to T-intersection; turn left. Parking is 50 yards on the right.

Requirements

Permit Required

No permits required for day hiking in New River Gorge National Park

Fees: No entrance fee

Shuttle Available

Not applicable—single trailhead parking access

Trail Rules

Biking: No—hiking only

Trail Markers: Well-marked; designated as Trail #11 on Fayetteville-Lansing Area Trails map

Map/GPS recommended

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: Small stream crossing on trail; bring water filter or carry sufficient water for 2-hour round trip

Shade: Full shade—dense wooded canopy throughout

Hazards:

Steep grade throughout creates slip hazards, especially when wet. Stream crossing is negotiable year-round but can swell after heavy rain—don't force crossings above knee height. Root systems and loose rock create ankle-turning opportunities; wear supportive, broken-in boots.

Emergency: Call 911. New River Gorge National Park visitor centers at Canyon Rim and Sandstone (9 AM–5 PM daily) for non-emergency assistance.

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: Moderate, especially weekends during climbing season

Peak Times: Weekends April through October when climbing activity peaks

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Rooty, steep, and rough natural terrain. Not wheelchair accessible. Stream crossing adds technical footing demands.

Family Notes:

Nearby Facilities

Fayetteville, WV (several miles via Gatewood Road) for food, lodging, and supplies

What Hikers Say

FAQs

Is this safe to hike alone?

Yes—it's popular so you'll likely see others. Bring your phone and tell someone your plan. The steep sections demand focus; don't hike distracted.

Do I absolutely need trekking poles?

Can a beginner do this trail?

What gear do I need?

What's the stream crossing like?

How crowded is this trail?

📖 National Park Service — Butcher Branch Trail (official page) (checked 2026-07-03) 📖 National Park Service — New River Gorge National Park & Preserve fees, hours & conditions (checked 2026-07-05) 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research. Learn how YourNPGuide works →

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