Craig Branch Trail

Craig Branch Trail is a 2.4-mile one-way gravel route from Arrowhead Trails Parking to the Kaymoor Trail in New River Gorge. It follows a forested administrative road used by hikers and bicyclists, with several steep stretches and views toward the river and gorge. Allow about 1.5 to 2 hours one way. This is a point-to-point walk: retracing the same line makes it about 4.8 miles and means climbing back to Arrowhead. The historic Kaymoor mine site is farther along the connected Kaymoor Trail, beyond Craig Branch’s measured distance.

The route leaves the parking area near junctions with the Adena, Clovis, and Dalton trails, so check the markers before setting out. Craig Branch itself is a broad gravel track. Expect uneven patches with small rocks or roots and several steeper sections. The road drops through the forest into the gorge, with views of the river and gorge along the way. At the far end, the line joins Kaymoor Trail.

The one-way figures list 209 feet of climbing and 644 feet of descent. If you walk back the way you came, the descent becomes the climb out. Plan your return before starting. Bring drinking water, since none is available at the trailheads. Dogs may use park trails on a physical leash no longer than six feet.

The Kaymoor community was established in 1899 by the Low Moor Iron Company to supply coal for its iron furnaces. The name honors John Kay, who helped build the town and became the first superintendent of Kaymoor No. 1 Mine. The mine remains are reached by continuing onto Kaymoor Trail, so include that extra walking when planning a visit to the site.