06/22/2026
Boots Been There š„¾
This weekend called for an impromptu (I didnāt have my boots) adventure to Kaymoor Miners Trail⦠and wow, this one earned its place on the list.
Located in the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, Kaymoor Miners Trail is a hike through West Virginia history. The trail leads to the remains of the historic Kaymoor coal operation, where miners once worked and entire communities existed deep in the gorge. The mine operated for decades before closing in the 1960s, and today you can still see remnants of the mine entrance, processing areas, coke ovens, and pieces of the old company town.
The famous stairs? Theyāre no joke. After descending through switchbacks to the mine site, there are 821 wooden steps down⦠and yes⦠821 steps back up to reach the remains below. Thousands of miners once made similar trips as part of daily life in the gorge.
Our final count: 2.47 miles and 1,642 total stairs conquered.
Legs questioned our decisions a few times⦠but the views, history, and adventure made every step worth it.
WV really does have a way of reminding you that the best stories start with āthis was kind of last minuteā¦ā š„¾ā°ļø
Where should Sarahās boots go next?