Coal Heritage Trail
Oak Hill, WVThe Coal Heritage Trail is a driving trail that winds through more than (13 counties) 187 rugged miles of scenic industrial heritage, where thousands of hard-working miners labored to produce the coal which created modern America.
The story of the southern West Virginia “smokeless” coalfields is a remarkable legacy of working-class culture, industrial might, racial and ethnic diversity, and the creation of a unique and distinctive culture of national significance. As you journey along the Coal Heritage Trail you will pass through National Historic Districts and see many of the physical remnants of the coal boom such as coal miners' homes, company stores, company offices, railroad yards and other structures that defined life in the "smokeless coal fields”.
You may want to visit the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine or stop in one of the many towns for a relaxing lunch and chat with some of the locals. The trail takes about 4.5 hours to drive and can be broken down into a two day travel experience. The Trail begins on RT. 52 in Bluefield and travels to Welch, the takes RT. 16 North to Ansted. No tolls. The Coal Heritage Trail Is part of the National Coal Heritage Area.
Nearby Attractions:
Nearby Attractions:
Trip Inspiration
Make a Splash at these 3 Adventure Lakes in West Virginia
Jumpstart your summer with a cannonball into one of West Virginia’s three adventure-filled lakes. Whether searching for adrenaline-pumpin...
Read MoreLeave the Screens at Home & Check Out These Unplugged Adventures in West Virginia
If your goal this summer is to unplug and get outside, then you need to check out these off-the-grid adventures in West Virginia. ...
Read MorePick from these 4 stays for your next Visit to Southern West Virginia
With so many excellent overnight destinations, Almost Heaven makes it easy for anyone to feel like they have found their new favorite spot....
Read MoreThis West Virginia Lakeside Retreat is Calling Your Name
The sun is shining bright in Almost Heaven, and we are ready to start the summer with a trip to the lake. Nestled in the heart of West Virg...
Read MoreAn ancient underground ocean in West Virginia?!
Did you know an ancient ocean trapped below the Appalachian Mountains lies right here in the heart of the Kanawha Valley? That's right! J.Q...
Read MoreHit The Green at This WV Golf Destination: Fisher Mountain
Nestled in the mountains of West Virginia sits Fisher Mountain, a picturesque golf club and community that's almost too stunning to bel...
Read More5 Unique, Quirky and Local Dining Destinations to Visit in West Virginia
It's no secret that West Virginia is jam-packed with delectable, unforgettable and local flavors. From sweet to savory, there is always a m...
Read MoreVisit West Virginia's Family Friendly Exhibition Coal Mine this Summer
As the sun shines brighter and the days get longer, fulfill your wanderlust with a trip to Beckley in Raleigh County. Between cultural char...
Read More5 Reasons Why Off-roaders are Flocking to West Virginia's Hatfield-McCoy Trails
If you have yet to go off-roading at West Virginia's ultimate network of ATV, UTV, ORV and dirt bike trails, then you haven't experienced t...
Read More