Rail Explorers: Elk River Division

A perfect way to see some of West Virginia’s beautiful nature. We were concerned it would be a hot ride due to the intense summer heat, but with the shade and breeze from the rail bike it was extremely relaxing and comfortable. We rode on a 4 seater (they have 2 seaters also) and the rear right seat was motorized - as long as one person pedaled (very easy and non strenuous) it kept the car moving. They send you out with a group but space you far enough apart to give you the privacy to enjoy the ride. Half way through the ride you disembark by a nice stream for a break and so they can turn the rail car around for the return trip. There are benches and seats if you want to relax. This was a perfect family activity, our 5 year old loved it. If you’re worried about not being able to peddle - you can just relax and enjoy the ride.

This was a lot of fun. The rail bike are motors so they require very little paddling effort. One person is in charge of the break and it is all very easy going. We booked an 11am on a Thursday morning and although there were about 20 rail bikes (for 2 or 4 people), they are sent on their way in a fashion that allows you to feel almost alone. The ride speed itself is only 10-15 miles/hour and is quite lovely. It might be a bit noisy for young ones or for pets. After 6 miles you stop, get a lovely 20-30 min break by the stream while the rail bikes are turned to allow you the ride back. A cute gift shop, much parking and ok restrooms are also available. We thought that this is a cool experience which worth the price. Order seat ahead since it looks like there were no room for walk ins.

Buy your tickets in advance and dress warmly! It was the coldest day since summer when we visited and it was really chilly. But once you get going on the rail car you will freeze. But it is a blast. I was in the hot seat so I controlled the brake and the speed of the car. It tops out at a speed that is appropriate for the tour but I wanted to go faster and you can generate anymore speed the faster you pedal which is a bummer. It was rainy the day I went also and made the wheels spin a little and also at some points on the track it makes a loud noise and shakes more than I would have liked haha. Felt like it was gonna jump the track at those moments but that was not a real concern it just felt that way. They warned us that sometimes the battery can fail and you have to stop and wait for the last employee car to show up and fix it. Well our car had issues three times and that was a bummer. I wish there was more on the ride to see like a haunted trail or such. I think that would be perfect and a greta idea. But they are just stating so let’s hope it grow. When you get to the turn around point it is a really cool spot in the woods that should have. A structure to eat and hang out for a while. They have lights setup and it would be amazing at night with them on. That is a cool touch but didn’t get to see that. However the whole ride and area is gorgeous. Even I forget how beautiful West Virginia is sometimes. Worth checking out with friends or family. They have 2 and 4 seaters and can entertain larger groups if you get enough tickets early.

My friend and I went and had an Amazing time. Its such a nice relaxing trips through the woods on the rails. The carts have a motor, so the pedaling just keeps the motor engaged. We were able to just sit back and enjoy the ride. The staff is so friendly and helpful. You can tell they really want to make sure everyone has a great time. We are already planning our next trip!

This was a great little day trip activity, it’s 6.25 miles out and then you stop for like 15min min while they turn all the carts around. bridge and stream that is great for pictures; which they also let you stop on the bridge and take your photos on the way back. Took us about 35 min out and 20-25min on way back as people took it slower to enjoy things on the way out I imagine During our visit It was chilly but they had fires going at like 1030ish for everyone to stand around. The do have a mobile bathroom station beside main office. The office does have hoodies, hats, beanies, and some cool gifts for memories. There is also an Almost Heaven swing to take pictures by the water when you are waiting to start your ride. All the staff was very friendly and welcoming as well!

a very enjoyable experience. we have done a rail bike before on the Colebrookdale Railroad, and as much fun as that was, this was even better. the battery assist feature on the cars makes the pedaling much easier and the ride much more enjoyable. after you cross the road at the departure, you spend the next 6 miles pedaling a very scenic route that follows the creek. we spent about 20 minutes relaxing at the turn around before the return trip the staff was very professional and friendly. they spaced the cars out well, and with the battery assist, most people were able to maintain a good pace such that you didn't get backed up behind a slow car in front. when you go, make sure to put a pin in the map.

This was so fun. The electric assist motor makes it super easy. The views were great along the railway. Devils sawmill falls were trickling a little with the recent rains. There is a basket on your rail bike so you can bring a backpack or small cooler for a quick snack at the turnaround.

I have to say, we had an amazing time and will be looking for another trip to clay wv to do another ride. Highly recommend. Very easy to ride and just amazing staff. Also love the kid friendly seats so kids can ride as well.