Kaymoor Miners Trail

A young hiker on wooden stairs. A sign above her reads, "Your Family wants you to work safely"

This one-mile descent is a steepening leg-destroyer: 900 feet down rocky stairs and switchbacks to the Kaymoor coal mine historic site, then 821 more steps to processing ruins and coke ovens near river level. Gorge views appear 0.2 miles down the trail. Strenuous and technical—bring trekking poles and respect the historic structures and active railroad tracks at the base. The return climb demands serious conditioning.

Quick facts

Distance Miles: 1
Route Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty Level: Strenuous
Elevation Gain Feet: 900

Trail profile

Distance Miles: 1
Route Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty Level: Strenuous
Elevation Gain Feet: 900
Estimated Time: 2.5 to 3.5 hours for most hikers (1.0 mile down + 1.0 mile up, steep). Add time to explore the historic site at the base.
Trail Surface: Rocky, steep stairs, switchbacks, forest floor. Loose and slippery when wet.
Trail Features: Historic Kaymoor coal mine ruins
Processing plant and coke ovens
Town site foundations near river level
821 wooden steps to lower mining site
Gorge views (0.2 miles down trail)
Forest canopy
Trail Highlights: Historic Kaymoor coal mining complex—one of the park's most significant industrial heritage sites. Steep descent provides a cardiovascular challenge and rewarding views of coal-era infrastructure.

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location: From US 19, follow WV 16 south through Fayetteville. Turn left on Gatewood Road (marked with park signs for Kaymoor and Cunard). Follow Gatewood Road 2.0 miles and turn left at the Kaymoor sign (Kaymoor No. 1 Road). Follow this road about 1 mile to the T-intersection, turn left. Parking is 50 yards on the right.
Shuttle Required: 0

Permits & conditions

Permit Details: Not required
Fees: Free
Trail Status: Partially closed (upper section closed Mon–Thu, 6/30–11/14 for maintenance)
Seasonal Closures: Upper section (from Kaymoor Top to top of stairs) is closed Monday through Thursday, June 30–November 14, for trail improvement and safety work. Winter snow may impact trail conditions.

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead: 1
Water Sources: None on-trail. Carry 2–3 liters minimum. Creek at river level is not accessible.
Accessibility: Not accessible. Rooty, rocky, and extremely steep (900-foot descent in 1.0 mile). Hundreds of stairs, switchbacks, and uneven footing. High physical demand.

Safety & strategy

Hazards: Steep descent and ascent (900 feet)
Loose and slippery stairs (especially when wet)
Narrow steep sections with drop-offs
Exposure on switchbacks
Dehydration risk on technical, strenuous terrain
Active railroad tracks at river level (do not cross)
Historic structures—fragile and not stable for climbing
Hazard Details: Steep rocky stairs and switchbacks present slip-and-fall risk, especially in wet conditions. Sections along the gorge edge have significant drop-offs. The 821 wooden steps at the bottom are steep and narrow. Active CSX railroad tracks run at river level—do not walk on or cross them. Historic mining structures (walls, artifacts, coke ovens) are fragile and protected—climbing or sitting on them weakens them and is prohibited.
Best Season: Spring (April–May) and fall (September–October). Note: The upper section is closed Monday–Thursday from June 30 to November 14 for maintenance.
Best Time To Visit: April through May and September through October, when temperatures are moderate and the trail is fully operational. Note: The upper section closes June 30–November 14 (Monday–Thursday). Start by 7:00 AM to avoid afternoon heat and ensure adequate time for the steep descent and climb.
Tips Advice: Wear sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support and grip
Bring 2–3 liters of water minimum—no water sources on-trail
Use trekking poles for the steep descent and ascent
Do NOT touch, sit on, or climb historic structures
Do NOT walk on or cross the active railroad tracks at river level
The trail does not reach the river—don't wander off-trail seeking water
Start early to beat afternoon fatigue and heat

More details

Park Area: Fayetteville Area
Trail Markers: Well-marked trail with blazes and signs. Visible and easy to follow despite steep terrain.
Biking Allowed: No. Hiking only.
Shade Level: Mostly shaded in forest canopy, but exposed sections on stairs and switchbacks. Sun exposure increases lower on trail.
Emergency Contacts: Nearest ranger station: Canyon Rim Visitor Center (9:00 AM–5:00 PM daily). In emergencies, call 911. Park headquarters: Glen Jean.
Map Recommended: 0
Snow Dates: Snow is uncommon in the New River Gorge (elevation ~2,100 feet). Winter ice on stairs is a hazard in December–February; trail conditions deteriorate significantly.
Mud Season: March–April (spring thaw) and after heavy rain. Rocky stairs shed water quickly, but switchback sections may be muddy.
Fall Colors Peak: Mid-October for peak foliage in surrounding forest.
Bug Season: June–August. Mosquitoes common near shaded forest sections and at river level. Tick season: April–November.
Insider Tips: The gorge view appears at the 0.2-mile mark on the right before the major stairs begin—worth a brief stop for photos.
Many hikers underestimate the return climb; save energy for the ascent.
Explore the coke ovens and processing plant ruins carefully—they're fragile and tell the story of early 1900s coal mining.
Wear gaiters to keep rocky debris out of boots.
The trail is quieter on weekdays, especially during the partial closure window (Mon–Thu closures).
Recent Updates: June 30–November 14: Upper section (Kaymoor Top to top of stairs) is closed Monday–Thursday for NPS trail improvement and safety work. Trail open Friday–Sunday during this period. Fully open outside these dates.
Family Friendly Notes: Not recommended for young children. The 900-foot descent with steep stairs and narrow switchbacks poses serious fall risk. Older teens and fit adults only. Hand-holding mandatory on exposed sections; heights are significant.
Nearby Facilities: Fayetteville (2 miles away): restaurants, lodging, and supplies. Canyon Rim Visitor Center (approximately 10 miles away): visitor facilities, restrooms, ranger information.
Review Summary: Most hikers report the initial descent is steeper than expected—bring trekking poles and start early. Reviewers consistently praise the historic mining ruins and gorge views despite the physical demand. The return climb, while shorter than 3 miles, taxes even fit hikers. Best for intermediate–advanced hikers seeking historical significance and a serious leg workout.

Location

Frequently asked questions

Can I do this trail if I'm not super fit?

Honest answer: The 900-foot descent in 1.0 mile is relentless. If you struggle with stairs or steep hiking, this will punish you. The return ascent is harder than the descent. Be realistic about your fitness level—intermediate–advanced only.

Is it safe to hike this alone?

Yes, if you're experienced in uneven terrain and carry proper gear. The trail is well-marked and established. However, if you fall and injure yourself far from the road, help takes time. Bring your phone (though cell service is unreliable), tell someone your plan, and start early.

Do I need special gear?

Trekking poles are essential—they absorb impact on the descent and provide stability on stairs. Sturdy, well-fitted hiking boots with ankle support are non-negotiable. A headlamp or strong flashlight if you think you'll be descending near dusk. Gaiters help keep rocky debris out of boots.

Why is the upper section closed some days?

NPS crews are improving trail safety and sustainability on the upper section through November 14. Closures are Monday–Thursday during this window. Plan your visit for Friday–Sunday or after mid-November when the trail is fully open.

Are there bears or other wildlife hazards?

Black bears are present in the New River Gorge but attacks on hikers are extremely rare. Make noise while hiking and don't leave food unattended. No other significant wildlife hazards, but watch for loose rocks and slippery footing.

What's the hardest part?

The return climb. The descent is steep but manageable; most hikers underestimate the climb back up. Your legs will be fatigued after the descent, and you still have 900 feet to regain. Budget energy accordingly.

Can I turn back if I get tired?

Yes. The trail is straightforward—you came down, you go back up. There's no loop option. If you're exhausted at the 0.5-mile mark (mine site), turning back is a smart call. The first 0.5 miles going back up is steep but shorter than the full return.