Kaymoor Miners Trail – Kaymoor Trail loop from Fayette
Kaymoor Miners Trail – Kaymoor Trail loop from Fayette
4.8
(5860)
8,747
runners
Kaymoor Miners Trail – Kaymoor Trail loop from Fayette
06:28
48.5km
1,340m
Running
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: May 18, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through protected areas
Please check local regulations for:
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
8.01 km
Kaymoor Miners Trail
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
8.42 km
Kaymoor Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
21.8 km
New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
Highlight • Bridge
Tip by
25.1 km
New River Gorge National Park
Nature Reserve
27.6 km
Craig Branch Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Natural Monument
Tip by
39.8 km
Riverside Access
Highlight • River
Tip by
48.5 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
41.7 km
6.03 km
589 m
121 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
39.1 km
4.06 km
3.11 km
2.06 km
121 m
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Elevation
Highest point (640 m)
Lowest point (300 m)
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Weather
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Today
Tuesday 21 July
28°C
20°C
79 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 19.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a truly challenging jogging experience that blends strenuous terrain with rich history, the Kaymoor Miners Trail – Kaymoor Trail loop from Fayette delivers. This difficult 30.1-mile (48.4 km) route packs in 3300 feet (1006 metres) of elevation gain, taking around 6 hours and 10 minutes to complete. It's an ideal pick for experienced joggers seeking a serious workout and unique historical exploration in the New River Gorge.
What to expect on Kaymoor Miners Trail – Kaymoor Trail loop from Fayette
The journey begins with the infamous Kaymoor Miners Trail, plunging you into the gorge via a rocky path, switchbacks, and an impressive wooden staircase with over 800 steps. This section is rarely level, dropping about 400 feet in just half a mile, making it a significant test for your knees and quads. Once you connect to the Kaymoor Trail, the terrain shifts to old roads and rail beds, though the southern half can still be demanding with large gravel sections. Throughout, you'll be immersed in lush Appalachian forest, catching glimpses of the New River, and the highlight is undoubtedly the abandoned Kaymoor Mine site, where you can explore preserved structures and learn about the area's coal mining past. This loop is best suited for well-prepared joggers who thrive on steep climbs and descents, and it's excellent for serious hill training.
Planning your visit
The Kaymoor Miners Trail is known for its steepness, especially the 821 steps, which can be slick when running down. While specific parking details aren't provided, trails in popular areas like New River Gorge National River often see lots fill up early, so plan an early start. Always carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as this is a long and strenuous route. The trail is accessible year-round, but spring offers the bonus of unique waterfalls after rains, and fall brings vibrant foliage.
Trail details
- Distance: 30.1 miles (48.4 km)
- Elevation gain: 3300 feet (1006 metres)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Estimated time: 6 hours and 10 minutes
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