Logan River Trail | Logan

The West Fork River Trail is a multi-use recreational path located in Clarksburg, West Virginia. It follows the course of the West Fork River.

Visual Characteristics

The trail is primarily paved asphalt, measuring approximately 10 feet in width. It is bordered by mature deciduous trees on one side and the West Fork River on the other. The river's water color varies from brown to grey depending on recent rainfall. The terrain is generally flat with a gradual incline in some sections.

Location & Access Logistics

The West Fork River Trail can be accessed from multiple points within Clarksburg. The main trailhead is located at the intersection of South Chestnut Street and Pike Street, approximately 1 mile south of the Clarksburg city center. Ample parking is available at this main trailhead. Additional access points with limited parking exist at the North View Park entrance (0.5 miles North of the city center via North View Drive) and at the Stonewood entrance (2 miles South of the city center via Stonewood Drive). Public transport options are limited; the closest bus stops are on Main Street, requiring a walk of approximately 0.75 miles to the nearest access point.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The West Fork River Trail was developed on a former Baltimore and Ohio Railroad corridor. The railroad line was operational for freight and passenger transport for much of the 20th century before being decommissioned. The trail's ecological context is within the Appalachian mixed mesophytic forest region, characterized by diverse tree species and understory vegetation.

Key Highlights & Activities

Activities include walking, jogging, cycling, and inline skating. Birdwatching is possible along the riverbanks. The trail is suitable for all skill levels due to its flat profile. Fishing is permitted in the West Fork River from designated access points along the trail.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at the main trailhead on South Chestnut Street and at North View Park. Benches are positioned at regular intervals along the trail. Shade is provided by the tree canopy for approximately 60% of the trail's length. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally consistent along the trail. No food vendors are located directly on the trail; however, businesses are accessible within a 0.5-mile radius of the main trailhead.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, early morning or late afternoon provides optimal lighting conditions due to the angle of the sun. The best months for comfortable outdoor activity are April through October, avoiding the humidity of mid-summer. No tide considerations apply.

Facts & Legends

A local anecdote suggests that during the railroad's operation, a rare species of salamander was discovered near the riverbanks, though its current status is unconfirmed. A specific tip for visitors is to look for the remnants of old railroad bridge abutments visible near the Stonewood access point.

Nearby Landmarks

• Harrison County Historical Society Museum (0.8km Northwest)
• Clarksburg Public Library (1.2km North)
• Veterans Memorial Park (1.5km North)
• Waldomore Estate (2.0km Northwest)