LOGAN, W.Va. โ A new 4.6-mile trail connecting Chief Logan State Park and the Hatfield-McCoy Trails system has opened in southern West Virginia.
This new trail connects to the system's Bearwallow Trail with the lodge at Chief Logan State Park, allowing riders to stay at the park without trailering off-road vehicles to the trails.
According to Gov. Jim Justice, the new connector provides outdoor enthusiasts with a unique and scenic experience. Justice has invested over $250 million in state parks during his tenure.
โThe new Chief Logan State Park Connector Trail is a perfect example of how weโre enhancing our parks to provide even more opportunities for people to experience the natural beauty of West Virginia," Justice said.
"This trail is not just a connectorโitโs a gateway to adventure, offering our visitors a unique perspective on the amazing landscapes that make our state so special.โ
The $100,000 project results from a successful collaboration between the Hatfield-McCoy Trails Authority, the W.Va. Division of Natural Resources, the W.Va. Department of Tourism, and the W.Va. Division of Highways.
Though motorized vehicles are otherwise prohibited off-road in state parks, acting West Virginia State Parks Chief Dillard Price said the connector helps make the park more accessible.
โThis trail not only connects our parks but also connects people with the incredible beauty of West Virginia," Price said. "Weโre excited to share this new experience with visitors from near and far.โ
The trail was constructed using reclaimed surface mine benches within the park, offering riders a firsthand view of how nature reclaims mining areas over time.
Additionally, the ridge-top portion of the trail offers breathtaking views of the state park, allowing visitors to see the park in a way few have before.
Jeff Lusk, executive director of Hatfield-McCoy Trails, said the trail is beautiful and functional and should increase park visitation.
โThis new connection will allow more people to discover the wonders of Chief Logan State Park while enjoying the adventure of the Bearwallow Trail system,โ Lusk said.
Motorized vehicles have otherwise been prohibited off-road in state parks after officials observed that they detract from other forms of park use, including hiking and picnicking.
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