Kaymoor Miners Trailhead

Kaymoor Miners Trailhead offers families an exciting blend of outdoor adventure and living history in the stunning New River Gorge. Kids will be fascinated exploring the remnants of old coal mining structures while hiking through beautiful forested trails with breathtaking gorge overlooks. This moderate trail provides just enough challenge to keep older children engaged while offering incredible educational opportunities about Appalachian mining heritage.

• ✓Exploring authentic coal mining ruins including the tipple and processing structures
• ✓Descending 821 stairs through lush forest to reach the historic mining site
• ✓Spectacular overlooks of the New River Gorge from multiple vantage points
• ✓Learning about early 20th-century coal mining history through interpretive information
• ✓Spotting wildlife and native plants along the forested trail

1. 1.Start early in the morning to avoid afternoon heat and have the trail mostly to yourselves,the first hour after sunrise offers magical lighting for photos
2. 2.Bring a headlamp or flashlight to explore the darker areas of the mining structures safely, which kids find thrilling
3. 3.Wear sturdy hiking boots as the trail includes over 800 stairs and can be slippery near the old mining equipment
4. 4.Download trail information beforehand as cell service is unreliable in the gorge
5. 5.Pack extra water and snacks,the trail is more strenuous than it appears and there are no facilities along the way

Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the most comfortable temperatures and stunning foliage. Weekday mornings are less crowded than weekends, and visiting during cooler months means fewer bugs and better visibility through the trees to the gorge views.

This is a free National Park Service trail with limited parking at the trailhead (arrive early on weekends). There are no facilities, food, or water available, so come fully prepared with supplies and use restrooms before arriving.

Accessible year-round, but winter ice can make stairs and trails treacherous,check conditions before visiting. Spring wildflowers and fall foliage are spectacular. Summer can be hot and humid with bugs, so bring insect repellent. Trail may be muddy after heavy rain.

Cathedral Cafe in Fayetteville (7 miles away) offers family-friendly comfort food and local favorites, or stop by Pies & Pints for creative pizzas that kids love after your hike.