No. Hiking-only trail, and the loose footing, steep grade, and exposure aren't safe for paws.

Conveyor Trail - 0.8mi Strenuous Climb

Q: How dangerous is the loose coal slag?

It shifts under pressure. One careless step on descent = ankle sprain or worse. Trekking poles aren't optional; they're survival gear. Descend methodically.

Q: Are trekking poles really necessary?

Absolutely. They reduce joint stress by half and keep you upright when ground moves. Non-negotiable for this trail.

Q: When do most accidents happen?

The descent. People gas out, stop paying attention, the slope punishes them. The downhill is harder than the uphill; pace yourself.

Q: What makes this worth the pain?

Historic coal mining structures, conveyor remnants, Appalachian gorge views. Industrial archaeology that tells a story. Worth it if you love history and don't mind suffering.

Q: How long should I plan for?

3.5-4.5 hours total. Don't underestimate; descent is slower than ascent. Budget a full morning and leave before 4pm.

Distance

0.8 mi

Elevation Gain

655 ft

Est. Time

1.5-2 hours ascending (steep and relentless), 2-2.5 hours descending (requires caution). Total: 3.5-4.5 hours for experienced hikers.

Route Type

Out-and-back

Best Season

April-May and September-October

Overview

About This Trail

This steep, strenuous coal mine trail climbs 655 feet in just 0.8 miles over loose, treacherous slaggy surface. You'll zigzag past historic mining equipment and gorge views, but your footing will be constantly tested on every step. Best for experienced hikers only—the loose coal debris means zero margin for carelessness.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Strenuous—lung buster on unstable, steep terrain.

Trail Highlights

Industrial coal mining archaeology, historic conveyor structures, New River Gorge vistas, evidence of Appalachian coal extraction history

Insider Tips

• The grade is consistent throughout—don't ease up expecting relief. • Early morning offers best footing before sun loosens additional debris. • At the major switchback (≈0.4 miles), conveyor equipment is framed against gorge—the photo op. • The old railroad line is the true terminus; don't confuse false turnarounds. • Descend slower than your body wants—fatigue and overconfidence cause most downhill slips.

Best Season to Hike

April-May and September-October

Hiking Tips

Wear boots with strong ankle support—slaggy surface shifts beneath every step.
Bring 2-3L of water minimum; short climb demands serious hydration.
Trekking poles are essential for stability on loose debris and joint protection.
Watch footing constantly—slip on coal slag means real injury.
Leave artifacts as found; respect the industrial history.

Family Info

Not suitable for children. Unprotected drop-offs, loose footing, steep grade, and long exposure demand constant adult supervision and focus. Experienced adult hikers only.

What Hikers Say

Experienced hikers report a gut-check climb with serious footing challenges but rewarding industrial archaeology and gorge views. The loose coal slag keeps everyone honest—momentum and carelessness are punished hard.

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 0.8 miles

Elevation Gain: 655 ft

Duration: 1.5-2 hours ascending (steep and relentless), 2-2.5 hours descending (requires caution). Total: 3.5-4.5 hours for experienced hikers.

Difficulty: Strenuous—lung buster on unstable, steep terrain.

Route Type: Out-and-back

Surface: Loose slaggy coal debris mixed with exposed rock. Extremely unstable when wet or icy.

Getting There

Trailhead: Nuttallburg Area trailhead (labeled 2 on Nuttallburg Area Trails map). Access via Headhouse Trail or Keeneys Creek Rail Trail junction.

Requirements

Permit Required

None required

Fees: No entrance fee

Shuttle Available

Not applicable

Trail Rules

Biking: No—hiking only

Trail Markers: Marked on Nuttallburg Area Trails map as trail (2). On-ground markers may be minimal; map navigation recommended.

Map/GPS recommended

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: Keeneys Creek near trail (old railroad line area), but water treatment required. Carry 2-3L minimum; don't rely on creek as primary source.

Shade: Variable—some switchbacks in gorge shade, much of climb exposed to direct sun

Cell Service: Assume no cell service. Gorge blocks most signals. Rely on emergency whistles or backup communication.

Hazards:

The 40.5% average slope combined with loose coal slag creates unpredictable, treacherous footing throughout. Unprotected gorge edges present significant drop-off risk. Wet, icy, or post-rain conditions make this trail extremely dangerous—avoid in precipitation or freeze-thaw cycles.

Emergency: Call 911 if safe (cell uncertain). Park Headquarters, Glen Jean, for non-emergencies. Visitor Centers: Canyon Rim and Sandstone (9am-5pm daily).

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: Light to moderate—remote enough to avoid hordes but known to experienced hikers

Peak Times: Fall weekends (September-October) when weather is optimal

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Not accessible. Steep (40%+), loose unstable footing, no railings or maintained steps. Equivalent to climbing 30+ flights of stairs with no handholds on slippery ground.

Family Notes:

Not suitable for children. Unprotected drop-offs, loose footing, steep grade, and long exposure demand constant adult supervision and focus. Experienced adult hikers only.

Nearby Facilities

Canyon Rim Visitor Center (9am-5pm daily), Sandstone Visitor Center (9am-5pm daily), Park Headquarters at Glen Jean. Limited on-site amenities; nearest services in nearby towns.

What Hikers Say

FAQs

Can I do this if I'm an average hiker?

Strenuous means strenuous. If steep gym climbs or mountain scrambles exhaust you, this will humble you. Be brutally honest about fitness before committing.

How dangerous is the loose coal slag?

Are trekking poles really necessary?

When do most accidents happen?

What makes this worth the pain?

How long should I plan for?

Can I bring my dog?