Itineraries
Laurel Fork Heritage Loop
Journey Overview
The Laurel Fork three-day heritage circuit, based in the railroad hub of Elkins, explores the rich history of West Virginia’s highlands. Travelers will discover the region’s railroad legacy, early Appalachian forest conservation efforts, and pivotal Civil War sites that shaped the state’s very formation. The route visits restored museums, historic homesteads, battlefields where brothers fought brothers, and protected old-growth forests that escaped the logging boom. This itinerary is designed for history enthusiasts, heritage travelers, and anyone interested in understanding how transportation, industry, and conflict transformed West Virginia’s mountain communities.
Best Times to Visit
Late May through mid-October offers optimal conditions for heritage touring.
- Museums and visitor centers operate seasonally, with most open Thursday through Sunday from late spring through fall
- The Tygart Flyer scenic train runs weekends from May through October, with peak fall foliage excursions in September and October.
- Civil War commemorations and living history events typically occur in spring and fall.
- Forest roads to high-elevation sites like Gaudineer Knob and Camp Allegheny are reliably passable; winter snow closes many access roads.
- Mild temperatures make walking tours of historic districts and battlefield trails comfortable.
Itinerary
Day 1: Elkins: Railroad Heritage
Morning
Breakfast in Elkins
Begin the day in downtown Elkins with breakfast, then head to the depot. Several options serve hearty meals suitable for fueling a day of exploration.
- TipTop Cafe: Local artsy favorite serving locally made pastries and sandwiches.
- Byrd’s House of Donuts: Fresh-baked donuts and coffee in a no-frills setting
- The Crossing Coffee Bar: Specialty coffee drinks, light breakfast options, and a handcrafted local goods shop at neighboring Delmonte Market.
- Scottie’s of Elkins: Casual diner with traditional breakfast plates
Option 1: New Tygart Flyer Train Excursion
Board this vintage diesel-powered passenger train at the restored Elkins Depot on Railroad Avenue. The four-hour, 46-mile round trip follows the Tygart River through the Cheat Mountain wilderness, passing through an S-curve tunnel, crossing a high bridge over the Shavers Fork, and descending into a 1,500-foot-deep canyon. The journey culminates at the High Falls of Cheat, an 18-foot-high, 150-foot-wide waterfall in one of the most remote settings in the eastern United States. A cold-cut lunch is included with the ticket. The train operates on a seasonal schedule, primarily on weekends.
- Duration: Approximately 4 hours round trip
- Departure: Elkins Depot, Railroad Avenue
Note: Reservations strongly recommended. Parlor Car upgrades are available for adults seeking a more refined experience with private seating and expanded refreshments.
Option 2: Elkins Historic Walking Tour
For those not riding the train, downtown Elkins offers a self-guided walking tour through the historic district. The town was founded by U.S. Senators Henry Gassaway Davis and Stephen B. Elkins, who built the WV Central and Pittsburgh Railway in the late 1890s. Points of interest include the restored train depot, the Iron Horse statue, the USFS Monongahela Headquarters, the Governor Kump House, and numerous late-Victorian commercial buildings that reflect the town’s railroad boom era.
Option 3: Allegheny Highlands Trail
If you’re looking to stretch your legs, rent some e-bikes at Joey’s Bikeshop in downtown Elkins and venture along the 22-mile Allegheny Highlands Rail Trail. Accessible via multiple trailhead parking areas and featuring 5 miles of paved trail outside of Elkins, the route offers tranquil pastoral, riverside views of a landscape transformed by the railroad’s arrival.
- Distance: Variable; 22 miles Total
- Elevation Gain: Variable; but grade is minimal.
- Estimated Time: 1-2 hrs
- Difficulty: Easy
Midday
Lunch in Elkins
Return to Elkins or grab lunch before or after the train ride. Downtown offers several dining options within walking distance of the depot.
- The Forks Inn: American comfort food in a riverside setting
- CJ Maggie’s: Casual American cuisine with an extensive
- menu
- Bambino’s Bistro: Italian fare, including wood-fired pizzas.
- Smoke on the Water BBQ: Relaxed atmosphere with traditional smoked meats.
Afternoon
Appalachian Forest Discovery Center
Located on the first floor of the historic Darden Mill (built 1902) at 101 Railroad Avenue, this free museum explores the Appalachian Forest National Heritage Area’s cultural and forest heritage. Rotating exhibits have covered topics including folk art, wild plant traditions, public lands, ethnicity, ecology, and forestry. The center serves as a gateway for understanding how logging, conservation, and community shaped the region. Interactive elements and knowledgeable staff make this accessible for all ages. Visitors can also get their National Park Service passport stamped here.
- Admission: Free
- Hours: Thursday–Sunday, late May through October
- Time Needed: 45 minutes to 1 hour
West Virginia Railroad Museum
Directly upstairs from the Discovery Center on the second floor of the Darden Mill, this museum tells the story of the railroads that built cities like Elkins. Exhibits feature professional railroad photography, artifacts from the logging and coal era, and oral histories from retired railroaders. The museum explores how eighteen passenger trains once arrived and left Elkins daily during the railroad’s peak, and how the region transformed after rail service declined.
- Admission: $5 (12 and under free)
- Hours: Thursday–Sunday, late April through October
- Time Needed: 30–45 minutes
Night
Dinner and Evening in Elkins
Conclude the day with dinner and evening activities in Elkins. The town offers opportunities to experience Appalachian music and culture.
- Big Timber Brewing Company: Local craft brewery with a riverside taproom; does not serve food but welcomes outside food
- Fox Hops Brewery: Women-owned craft brewery opened in 2024; serves house-made beers and food, including sandwiches and appetizers
- Augusta Heritage Center & Arts Center: Check for live music performances, contra dances, or other cultural events (schedule varies seasonally)
Lodging Options
- Tygart Hotel: Historic downtown hotel with modern amenities, accessibility features, a downstairs restaurant and lounge, and powerful artistic storytelling.
- Holiday, Wingate, Hampton Inn Hotels: Friendly chain hotels with pools and breakfast
- Graceland Inn: Historic inn on the Davis & Elkins College campus
- Vacation Rentals & B&Bs: Multiple options, ranging from riverfront to historic, are available in the Elkins area.
Day 2: Elkins to Seneca Rocks: Forest Frontier & Recovery
Morning
Breakfast in Elkins
Fuel up for a full day of exploration at one of the breakfast spots listed above, then head east on US-33 toward Seneca Rocks.
Directions to Seneca Rocks
From Elkins, travel east on US-33 for approximately 35 miles through the mountain pass. The route climbs through forested highlands before descending into the scenic North Fork Valley. If time allows, take the Stuart Memorial Drive route out of Elkins and watch for the stone pillars of the Gateway to the Monongahela National Forest along Old Route 33- a unique landmark built by Civilian Conservation Corps workers in 1934. Alpena Gap, along this stretch, was one of several sites where CCC masonry crews trained and worked, including the nearby Bear Heaven Picnic Area and Bickle Knob Observation Tower.
CCC Gateway and Alpena Gap Historic Sites
The Civilian Conservation Corps, created as part of President FDR’s New Deal, employed hundreds of thousands of young men during the Great Depression. West Virginia hosted 65 CCC camps, with Randolph County alone hosting nine. CCC workers built fire towers, roads, recreation areas, and the distinctive stone gateway that once welcomed motorists entering the National Forest. Many of these structures remain as testaments to the era’s craftsmanship and conservation ethic.
Midday
Seneca Rocks Discovery Center
Located at the base of Seneca Rocks at the junction of US-33 and WV-28, this Forest Service visitor center offers exhibits on local geology, flora, fauna, and Native American history. Interpretive programs are offered on weekends throughout the summer season, including traditional Appalachian crafts demonstrations most Saturdays. The center features audiovisual presentations and a small gift shop, while offering spectacular views of the iconic rock formation. A short film describes the history of military training at Seneca Rocks during World War II, when troops trained here before deployment to mountainous areas in Europe.
- Admission: Free
- Hours: Daily late May through September; reduced schedule through October
- Time Needed: 30–45 minutes
Sites Homestead
Within walking distance of the Discovery Center, this restored 1839 log home offers a glimpse into early Appalachian pioneer life. Built by Jacob Sites below the Seneca Rocks ridge, the homestead began as a single-room log cabin and was expanded into a two-story frame structure in the 1850s, using locally sourced materials and skilled craftsmen. William Sites, who expanded the home, fought for the Confederacy during the Civil War, was captured in 1862, and died here shortly after his release. The Forest Service restored the structure in 1989-1990, and it features heirloom gardens and interpretive signage.
- Admission: Free
- Time Needed: 20–30 minutes
Lunch in the Seneca Rocks Area
- Front Porch Restaurant: Located in Harper’s Old Country Store (built 1902, one of the oldest continuously operated businesses in the state); serves pizza, subs, and American fare with mountain views from the upstairs porch
- Pack a picnic lunch: Recommend bringing supplies for the afternoon excursion to Spruce Knob.
AFternoon
Directions to Spruce Knob
From Seneca Rocks, travel south on WV-28 for approximately 10 miles. Turn right onto Briery Gap Road (Forest Road 112) and follow signs to Spruce Knob. Forest Road 104 leads to the summit. The drive from Seneca Rocks takes approximately 45 minutes. The road is narrow and winding but largely paved.
Whispering Spruce Trail
Begin at West Virginia’s highest point (4,863 feet) with this short loop trail around the summit. Beyond the dramatic views, this trail offers insight into forest history: the unique high-elevation ecosystem features wind-sculpted red spruce trees shaped by harsh winters, exposed rock outcrops, and plant communities similar to those found in northern New England and Canada. An observation tower provides 360-degree panoramas. Interpretive signage explains how these highland forests have changed since the logging era and the ongoing efforts to restore red spruce ecosystems across the region.
- Distance: 0.5 miles loop
- Elevation Gain: Minimal
- Estimated Time: 30–45 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy (gravel path)
Return to Elkins
From Spruce Knob, return via US-33 to Elkins (approximately 1.5 hours).
Night
Dinner in Elkins
Return to Elkins for dinner at one of the restaurants listed in Day 1.
Lodging Options
Same options as Day 1 in Elkins.
Day 3: Elkins to Durbin: First Campaign Civil War Trail
Morning
Breakfast in Elkins
Grab an early breakfast in Elkins before driving approximately 12 minutes south on US-219/250 to Beverly.
Beverly Heritage Center and Museum
This state-of-the-art museum combines four historic buildings in the center of Beverly to tell the story of the Battle of Rich Mountain and the First Campaign of the American Civil War. Exhibits explore the pivotal role of the Staunton-Parkersburg Turnpike, daily life in a small rural county seat through the 19th century, and how Beverly- once the first county seat of Randolph County (founded 1790)- became a crucial prize in the Civil War. General McClellan’s 1861 victory at nearby Rich Mountain and capture of Beverly led to his appointment as commander of the Army of the Potomac, gave Federal forces control of northwestern Virginia, and helped pave the way for West Virginia statehood.
- Admission: $5
- Hours: Thursday–Monday; summer hours extended
- Time Needed: 1–1.5 hours
Rich Mountain Battlefield
Drive five miles west of Beverly on Rich Mountain Road to the site of the July 11, 1861, battle—one of the first land engagements of the Civil War. The Hart Farm site includes historical markers, interpretive signs, and a half-mile walking trail. Highlights include Lander’s Rock, the remains of the Hart family’s spring house, and graffiti carved by soldiers. Confederate troops at Camp Garnett (at the western foot of the mountain) had controlled the mountain pass on the Staunton-Parkersburg Turnpike. When 22-year-old David Hart guided Union forces to flank the Confederate position, the battle led to the Union capture of Beverly and the Confederate retreat.
Hart Farm Trail
- Distance: 0.5 miles loop
- Elevation Gain: Minimal
- Estimated Time: 30–45 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy (rough ground in places)
Note: The site is open dawn to dusk year-round.
Midday
Directions to Cheat Summit Fort and Durbin
Return to Beverly, then continue south on US-250 toward Huttonsville and Durbin. The route follows the historic Staunton-Parkersburg Turnpike- the very road over which Union and Confederate forces fought for control. Cheat Summit Fort is located along US-250, approximately 14 miles south of Elkins.
Cheat Summit Fort
General George B. McClellan ordered this fort built in 1861 to secure the Staunton-Parkersburg Turnpike and protect the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. Also known as Fort Milroy, it is the highest known Union fortification in the eastern theater. The Battle of Cheat Mountain in September 1861 was the first engagement in which Robert E. Lee led troops into combat; his attempt to surround the Union garrison failed due to poor communication and misinformation. The fort’s earthworks remain visible, along with interpretive markers. The site is also significant for early telegraph use in Civil War communications.
Distance and trail type: 0.25-mile out and back
Elevation gain: 20 feet
Estimated time: 10-25 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Gaudineer Knob Scenic Area
Continue south on US-250, then turn onto Forest Road 27 (approximately 4 miles west of Durbin) to reach this National Natural Landmark. The 140-acre scenic area protects approximately 50 acres of virgin red spruce forest that escaped logging due to a surveying error in the 1800s. Individual trees reach 40 inches in diameter and are over 300 years old. A second scenic loop trail around a former fire tower site provides a magical atmosphere with a
Gaudineer Knob Scenic Interpretive Loop Trail
- Distance: 0.5-mile loop
- Elevation gain: 70 feet
- Estimated time: 20–30 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy (packed earth with some roots)
Gaudineer Knob Loop Trail
- Distance: 0.5-mile loop
- Elevation gain: 40 feet
- Estimated time: 10-20 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy (gravel path)
Afternoon
Lunch in Durbin
Descend south on US-250 to the small railroad town of Durbin for lunch before continuing the Civil War trail.
- Station 2 Restaurant: Home-style favorites and American classics in a casual setting adorned with firefighter memorabilia; attached motel available
- Simply Sweet Cafe: Cozy cafe with homemade food, espresso bar, fresh sandwiches, and desserts.
Historic Downtown Durbin
Take time to stroll this small railroad town, home to Mountain Rail Adventures and the historic Durbin Depot, which serves as a reception point for scenic train excursions along the Greenbrier River that depart from Cass Scenic Railroad State Park. Durbin’s downtown walking tour provides interpretive signage that dives into the town’s logging and railroad heritage.
Camp Bartow Preserve
Continue east on US-250 approximately 15 miles to Bartow, where the West Virginia Land Trust has preserved a core section of this Civil War fortified encampment. In August 1861, Confederate forces seized this position to block Union passage on the turnpike. On October 3, 1861, the Battle of Greenbrier River was fought here- an inconclusive engagement that nevertheless played a key role in the First Campaign of the Civil War. Still-visible earthworks, trenches, and the campground of the 31st Virginia Infantry remain. The site also includes the historic 1845 Traveller’s Repose inn (rebuilt 1869), which served as a stagecoach stop on the turnpike.
Camp Bartow Trail
- Distance: 0.5-mile out-and-back
- Elevation gain: 150 feet
- Estimated time: 10-20 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy-Moderate (grassy path with steeper uphill section to encampment)
Camp Allegheny Backway
For those with time and a vehicle suited for gravel roads, continue to Camp Allegheny on Old Pike Road (County Route 3), approximately 2 miles west of US-250. At 4,400 feet, Camp Allegheny was the highest elevation fortification occupied during the Civil War. Confederate forces built this stronghold to defend the Staunton-Parkersburg Turnpike after withdrawing from Camp Bartow. The December 13, 1861, Battle of Camp Allegheny was a Confederate victory that earned Colonel Edward Johnson the nickname “Allegheny” Johnson, but it came at great cost. An unmarked grave on the property contains the remains of over 80 Confederate soldiers who died from wounds, disease, and exposure during the brutal winter of 1861-62. The outcome of this battle ensured that Highland County remained in Confederate hands and thus in Virginia, directly shaping the border of the future state of West Virginia.
Note: Gravel road access. Site located partially on National Forest land; artifacts are protected by federal law.
Alternative: Rothkugel Interpretive Loop
While it is more difficult to access, an important piece of the Monongahela’s history can be found by driving north on WV-28 for approximately ten minutes. Parking at the roadside pull-off for the Lake Buffalo Recreation Area, visitors can walk 0.1 miles north up the road for a short half-mile trail that memorializes one of the earliest implementations of European forestry in America.
- Distance: 0.5-mile loop
- Elevation Gain: 100 feet
- Estimated Time: 30-45 minutes
- Difficulty: Moderate
Night
Return to Elkins
From Bartow or Camp Allegheny, return to Elkins via US-250 north (approximately 1 hour). Complete the circuit with dinner in Elkins at one of the restaurants listed in Day 1.
Lodging Options
Same options as Day 1 in Elkins, or consider staying in Durbin at the Station 2 Motel, East Fork Campground, or Vacation rental property for a shorter return journey.
Planning Notes
Museum and Visitor Center Hours
Most heritage sites in this region operate seasonally, typically Thursday through Sunday from late May through October. Hours may vary, and some sites close early in the off-season. Check specific hours before visiting, especially for the Seneca Rocks Discovery Center, Appalachian Forest Discovery Center, and Beverly Heritage Center.
Cell Service and Navigation
Cell service is limited throughout much of this route, particularly along US-250 between Huttonsville and Bartow, at Spruce Knob, and in the Seneca Rocks area. Download offline maps before departing. GPS devices work well, though paper maps for backcountry areas are recommended.
Weather Considerations
High-elevation areas like Spruce Knob and Gaudineer Knob experience significantly cooler temperatures than surrounding valleys. Conditions can change rapidly; bring layers regardless of season. Walking tours at historic sites are generally sheltered from extreme weather, but battlefield trails can be muddy after rain.
Road Conditions
US-33 and US-250 are paved and well-maintained. Rich Mountain Road to the battlefield is partly gravel and can be rutted; high-clearance vehicles are recommended but not required in dry conditions. Forest Road 27 to Gaudineer Knob is gravel but passable for most vehicles. The road to Camp Allegheny is gravel and may be rougher. These roads are not maintained in winter.
Historic Site Etiquette
Many of these sites are protected historic and natural areas. Observe all posted rules, including those against digging, artifact hunting, or using metal detectors. The old-growth forest at Gaudineer Scenic Area is particularly fragile; remain on the trail to avoid damaging root systems and understory vegetation. At battlefield sites, artifacts, structures, and archaeological resources are protected by federal law.
Leave No Trace
Many of these trails pass through sensitive high-elevation ecosystems or protected natural areas. Stay on established trails, pack out all trash, and respect wilderness regulations. The old-growth forest at Gaudineer Scenic Area is particularly fragile; remain on the trail to avoid damaging root systems and understory vegetation.