Lost Tracks and Hidden History in Fayette County

Deep in Fayette County, West Virginia, lies a rich history of coal, timber, and rugged mountain life. Traveling down along the river reveals old rail grades where heavy Shay locomotives once hauled coal and timber until operations ended in the 1970s. Over time, the steel tracks and wooden ties were pulled up, leaving behind historic routes and ghost towns like Thurmond, Nuttallburg, and Kaymoor. Following a river road that dates back two centuries offers a glimpse into a time before modern highways made these riverside communities obsolete.

“I love these old coal town locations like down here by the river. There’s so many things left that history left us to look at that I think we just don’t take advantage of around here.”

Ghost Stories and the Legend of the Woman in White

No deep mountain exploration in Appalachia is complete without local lore. The abandoned tunnel harbors its fair share of eerie tales, including lingering rumors of a past murder. Visitors and locals occasionally report seeing the ghostly figure of a woman in a white dress wandering through the darkness. Without an EMF meter on hand, exploring the towering, quiet half-mile corridor relies entirely on picking up the natural supernatural vibes of the mountain.

“I’d heard that someone was murdered and occasionally people see a woman in a white dress in the tunnel.”

Breathtaking Footbridges and the Half-Mile Tunnel

Beyond the spooky folklore lies impressive scenery and engineering. A footbridge built by the National Park Service spans the river, giving hikers sweeping views of the surrounding hills. The park service plans to eventually connect these hidden sections with the Meadow River Rail Trail, opening up the half-mile tunnel for bikers and outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy safely. Looking out over the water and stepping into the massive arched entrance feels like walking directly into a forgotten chapter of American history.

“This is literally an adventure in the hills. I feel like Indiana Jones for real right now.”

Ready to Experience the Journey Yourself?

If you want to feel the eerie quiet of the half-mile tunnel, see the sweeping river views from the footbridge, and take in the beautiful sights of West Virginia, you need to see this exploration in action. Watch the original video to come along on the full adventure through the heart of Appalachia!