01:07
4.01km
60m
Hiking
Embark on the Rend and Southside Trails via Arbuckle Connector Trail, an easy hike that spans 2.5 miles (4.0 km) with an elevation gain of 211 feet (64 metres). This route offers a varied experience, combining gentle rail-trail sections with a brief, more challenging connector. You can expect to complete the journey in about 1 hour and 6 minutes. Along the Southside Trail, you'll enjoy picturesque views of the New River, a highlight of this path. The trail also guides you through the sites of former mining towns, providing a unique historical backdrop to your outdoor adventure.
When planning your visit, be aware that the Arbuckle Connector Trail is steep and rocky in parts, requiring careful footing. After periods of rain, some sections of the Southside Trail can become muddy. While the Southside Trail officially begins at the Cunard river access, if you plan to reach the road near Thurmond, remember that you will need to cross an active railroad line without specific pedestrian provisions. Always plan your return route carefully to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
This trail is a notable part of New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, offering one of the few opportunities to hike directly alongside the New River. As you explore, you will pass through the remnants of abandoned mining towns like Rush Run and Red Ash, gaining insight into the region's industrial past. The Arbuckle Connector Trail, though short, reveals historical stonework and collapsed coke ovens from the former town of Wee Win. Depending on the season, you might also encounter abundant wildflowers in spring or magnificent fall colors, making this a scenic route year-round.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
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4.01 km
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Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
3.98 km
< 100 m
Surfaces
4.00 km
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (400 m)
Lowest point (330 m)
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Tuesday 19 May
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This route was planned by komoot.
The overall route is considered moderate due to the inclusion of the Arbuckle Connector Trail. While the Rend and Southside Trails are generally easy, level rail-trails, the Arbuckle Connector is a short but strenuous 0.3-mile section with a steep slope (average 75%) and significant elevation changes. Hikers should be prepared for rocky, root-filled, and potentially muddy terrain, especially on the connector and some sections of the Southside Trail.
Parking is available at the Cunard river access site, which serves as a common starting point for the Southside Trail. For the Rend Trail, you can typically find access points near Thurmond. Be aware that combining these trails often involves navigating an active railroad line without pedestrian provisions, so some hikers opt for car shuttles to manage the route.
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on trails within New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, including the Rend, Southside, and Arbuckle Connector Trails. However, they must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times. Please remember to pack out all pet waste.
This trail offers beautiful scenery year-round. Spring is excellent for viewing abundant wildflowers, especially along the Southside Trail. Fall brings magnificent foliage colors, while winter provides constant vistas of the New River through bare trees. Be prepared for potentially muddy conditions after rain, particularly on the Southside Trail.
No, there are no entrance fees or permits required for individual hikers to access the trails within New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, including the Rend, Southside, and Arbuckle Connector Trails. You can enjoy the park's trails free of charge.
The trail is rich in history and natural beauty. Along the Southside Trail, you'll enjoy excellent views of the New River and pass through abandoned mining towns like Rush Run, Red Ash, and Brooklyn. The Arbuckle Connector Trail offers glimpses of the stonework and collapsed coke ovens from the former Wee Win coal camp. You'll find remnants of old stone walls and other historical structures throughout the route.
While it's possible to combine the Rend and Southside Trails via the Arbuckle Connector, creating a true loop can be challenging. The Southside Trail officially ends near the bridge to Thurmond, but reaching the road requires crossing an active railroad line without pedestrian access. Many hikers opt to shuttle cars or plan an out-and-back route to avoid this obstacle.
The Rend and Southside Trails are generally easy and suitable for families, offering wide, level paths. However, the Arbuckle Connector Trail is short but very steep and rocky, which might be challenging for younger children or those unaccustomed to strenuous hiking. Families with small children might prefer to hike only the easier rail-trail sections.
When hiking in New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, always stay on marked trails, pack out everything you pack in, and respect wildlife. Camping is only permitted in designated areas. For specific regulations or updates, it's always a good idea to check the official National Park Service website at nps.gov.
Yes, this route primarily utilizes sections of the Rend Trail and the Southside Trail, connected by the Arbuckle Connector Trail. You may also briefly encounter parts of the Church Loop Trail along the way.
The Southside Trail is one of the few trails in the park that runs directly along the New River, offering numerous side trails to the water's edge. If you're interested in history, keep an eye out for Red Ash Island at the 3-mile mark of the Southside Trail, which has gravestones from 19th-century epidemics and mine disasters. Also, the Southside Trail's good sun exposure means spring ephemeral wildflowers appear earlier here than in other parts of the park.