BECKLEY, W.Va. — Trail development has emerged as a driving force in economic revitalization across the United States, but few regions are witnessing its transformative potential more clearly than West Virginia.
"With the state's outdoor recreation industry gaining national attention, advocates and developers are turning to trails as a key to unlocking economic, health, and community development opportunities.
Gary Morefield, a seasoned trail developer based in Beckley, believes that trails represent one of the most effective tools for sustainable growth in West Virginia. Morefield, who has been instrumental in projects near the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, sees a future where hiking, biking, and multi-use trails are foundational elements of the region's economy.
"The New River Gorge region—in fact, all of West Virginia—stands to benefit enormously from trail development," Morefield said during a weekend spent clearing a trail at Little Beaver State Park, a stone's throw from Beckley. "Outdoor recreation is not only here to stay, but it's also one of the fastest-growing sectors in our economy."
Trails in West Virginia: A Strategic Investment
Over the past decade, millions of dollars have been funneled into building and maintaining trails across West Virginia. These investments have already paid dividends, attracting thousands of tourists annually and significantly enhancing the region's profile as a premier outdoor destination.
Local governments and tourism boards are beginning to recognize that trails are more than recreational amenities—they're economic engines. The West Virginia Mountain Bike Association and other organizations are actively partnering with local communities to develop new routes and promote access to public lands.
One of the most visible examples of this movement is the Piney Creek Trails in and near Beckley. Winding its way along the rim of Piney Creek Gorge, the trail system has become a symbol of what grassroots collaboration can accomplish. Built entirely with volunteer labor, including hundreds of hours from Morefield and local supporters, the trail system was opened to immediate use by mountain bikers, hikers, and families as it was being built.
The trails paved the way for the creation of the Piney Creek Preserve, a project of the West Virginia Land Trust in partnership with the City of Beckley. The trust acquired more than 600 acres in 2019 to form the preserve and carried forward the trail‑system vision, ultimately offering 20 miles of recreational trails, providing access to scenic waterfalls, and honoring the coal‑mining legacy by repurposing old mine benches and relic infrastructure.
The Piney Creek Trails have become a cornerstone of the city’s Beckley Outdoors Economic Action Plan, aiming to bring residents and tourists closer to southern West Virginia’s Appalachian heritage and green-space amenities.
Hiking in West Virginia: Boosting Tourism and Property Values
According to a 2002 survey conducted by the National Association of Realtors, trails ranked as the second most important amenity out of 18 options considered by homebuyers. Communities with trail access tend to see a noticeable increase in property values and attract homebuyers seeking an active lifestyle.
Morefield noted similar patterns taking root in West Virginia. "We've seen properties near new trail developments appreciate in value," he explained. "It's not uncommon for buyers to pay a premium just to live near trailheads."
This trend is not unique to West Virginia; it is also observed in other states. In Apex, North Carolina, developers were able to increase home prices by $5,000 per unit in Shepard's Vineyard, an upscale community adjacent to trails. The implication is clear: trail access can be a significant asset in real estate development.
Mountain Biking in West Virginia: An Untapped Goldmine
West Virginia's rugged terrain, rolling hills, and dense forests make it a natural playground for mountain biking enthusiasts. Morefield says he believes that investing in mountain biking in West Virginia could yield massive returns in terms of tourism revenue, especially given the state's unique topography.
"We already have what most mountain bikers are looking for—elevation, scenery, and challenge," he said. "What we need is more infrastructure to support them—more trails, signage, and bike-friendly communities."
Groups like the state mountain biking association are taking a lead, but Morefield emphasizes the importance of community-driven projects. By using local knowledge and volunteer labor, trail projects can be completed with minimal public funding while delivering maximum community benefit.
Piney Creek Trails: A Model for Community-Led Development
The Piney Creek Trails exemplify how trail building can serve multiple social and economic functions. Designed to meet the needs of both tourists and local residents, the trails followed deer paths and abandoned logging roads, weaving through rhododendron thickets and past scenic overlooks.
"There were hikers and bikers on the trail before we even finished it," Morefield said. "That kind of instant adoption tells you everything you need to know about the demand."
Former Beckley councilman Tom Sopher, who helped design and clear the trail, emphasized its multifaceted benefits. "Ship Rock, for instance, is a landmark on the trails remembered by many older residents. We wanted to create a trail that would be accessible for all ages, maybe even suitable for school field trips," Sopher said. "It’s not just about exercise. It's also about heritage and education."
Cost-Effective Development Through Volunteerism
One of the most impressive aspects of the Piney Creek Trails project is its cost: zero dollars from taxpayer funds. The trail was constructed entirely through volunteer labor and donated resources, a testament to what community involvement can achieve.
"When you build a trail with your own hands, you take pride in it," Morefield said. "And when the community is involved from the beginning, they're more likely to maintain and protect it."
This grassroots approach also minimizes environmental disruption. The Piney Creek Trails were designed to alter the landscape as little as possible, preserving the natural beauty that draws people to the area in the first place.
Future Outlook: Trails as Pillars of Rural Revitalization
As more data emerges about the economic and social benefits of trails, West Virginia stands at a crossroads. Will it continue to invest in high-impact, low-cost infrastructure, such as hiking and biking trails? Morefield and others are hopeful.
"We've got momentum," he said. "We need to capitalize on it while people are paying attention. Every new trail we build is an investment in our future."
It's worth noting that motor-vehicle trails, such as all-terrain vehicle (ATV) trails, are generally not compatible with hiking and biking trails due to the significant noise and disruption caused by motorized vehicles. The loud engines and fast-moving machines can disturb the natural environment, interfere with the peaceful experience that hikers and cyclists seek, and pose safety risks on shared paths.
Recognizing these challenges, West Virginia has developed a designated off-road vehicle trail system known as the Hatfield-McCoy Trails. This network provides a dedicated space for ATV and other motorized recreation, helping to preserve the tranquility and safety of non-motorized trail systems while still supporting outdoor adventure and tourism.
From Beckley to the Monongahela National Forest, from small towns to state parks, trails in West Virginia are rapidly becoming more than just paths through the woods. They are lifelines to a healthier, more prosperous future.
For more information on recreational trails and their economic impact, the following resources may be of interest:
- Economic Benefits of Trails (Pennsylvania Land Trust Association)
- Economic Impact of Trails (National Trails Training Partnership)
- Economic Benefits of Trails & Greenways (Rails-to-Trails Conservancy) PDF
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