The Midland Trail (US 60): A Historic Journey Through West Virginia’s Heartland
Nestled within the Appalachian Mountains, the Midland Trail—a stretch of US Route 60 in West Virginia—offers more than just scenic vistas. This 180-mile corridor, designated a National Scenic Byway in 2000, weaves through centuries of history. It spans from ancient Native American pathways to the golden age of American road trips. Here’s a deep dive into the story of this iconic route, where every bend in the road reveals a chapter of America’s past.
Ancient Origins: From Buffalo Trails to Native Trade Routes
Long before asphalt paved its way, the Midland Trail began as a network of buffalo trails carved through the Appalachian wilderness. Native American tribes, including the Adena and Fort Ancient cultures, later used these paths for trade and migration. The Adena, known for their ceremonial mounds and copper artistry, left behind traces of their presence near present-day Charleston and Moundsville. By the 17th century, the trail became a vital corridor for tribes like the Shawnee and Cherokee. They navigated the region’s rugged terrain to hunt and trade.
One pivotal moment in the trail’s early history occurred in 1774, when General Andrew Lewis led 1,000 soldiers along this route. His forces defeated Chief Cornstalk at the Battle of Point Pleasant—a clash that reshaped colonial power dynamics in the Ohio Valley.
Colonial Expansion and the Birth of a Turnpike
The trail’s transformation from footpath to formal roadway began in 1824, when the James River & Kanawha Turnpike was constructed by a private Virginia company. This toll road connected the Chesapeake Bay to the Kanawha River, facilitating the movement of salt, coal, and settlers into western Virginia. Towns like Lewisburg and Ansted sprang up along the route, serving as waystations for travelers and hubs for emerging industries.
By the mid-19th century, however, the rise of railroads like the Chesapeake & Ohio Railway overshadowed the turnpike. The trail languished as a local thoroughfare until the early 20th century, when the automobile reignited interest in cross-country travel.
The Automobile Era: Paving the Way for National Tourism
In the 1930s, the Midland Trail was reborn as part of the federal highway system. Spearheaded by the American Automobile Association (AAA), US 60 became a transcontinental route stretching from Virginia to California. It symbolized the newfound freedom of road travel. West Virginia’s section, however, stood out for its dramatic landscapes—rolling hills, river gorges, and dense forests—that captivated drivers seeking adventure.
The trail’s revival also spurred economic growth. Communities like Charleston and Huntington thrived as gateways to the state’s coal and salt industries. Meanwhile, historic inns like Ansted’s Tyree Tavern (circa 1800) welcomed travelers, including figures like Henry Clay and Daniel Webster.
Recognition as a Scenic Byway: Preserving Heritage
The late 20th century saw a renewed focus on preserving the trail’s natural and cultural legacy. In 1988, the stretch from White Sulphur Springs to Charleston became West Virginia’s first State Scenic Highway. By 2000, the entire corridor—extending from Kenova on the Kentucky border to White Sulphur Springs—earned the title of National Scenic Byway. This was celebrated for its recreational, historical, and aesthetic value.
Today, the Midland Trail invites visitors to explore:
- Hawks Nest State Park: Overlooking the New River Gorge, this park offers jetboat rides and hiking trails with panoramic views .
- Malden: The childhood home of Booker T. Washington and a center of 19th-century salt production .
- Cathedral Falls: A 60-foot waterfall accessible directly from the highway .
- Lewisburg: A colonial-era town with architecture dating to the 1700s .
Cultural Legacy and Modern-Day Resonance
The Midland Trail is more than a road—it’s a living museum. In Charleston, the state capitol’s gold-leaf dome (the nation’s tallest) stands as a testament to West Virginia’s political journey. Nearby, the Ramsdell House in Ceredo whispers stories of the Underground Railroad, with a hidden tunnel leading to the Ohio River.
The route also reflects the state’s industrial triumphs and struggles. The coal mines of the New River Gorge and the labor movements of the early 1900s echo along its path. Meanwhile, towns like Gauley Bridge showcase the resilience of Appalachian communities.
Conclusion: Driving Through Time
The Midland Trail encapsulates West Virginia’s spirit—wild, enduring, and steeped in stories. From its origins as a Native American trail to its role in America’s highway revolution, US 60 offers a microcosm of the nation’s growth. For modern travelers, it remains a gateway to adventure, where history unfolds with every mile. As Larry L. Rowe, historian for the West Virginia Encyclopedia, notes, the trail represents the “Golden Age of the American Automobile”—a time when the journey itself was the destination.
Whether you’re tracing the footsteps of ancient tribes, Civil War soldiers, or 1930s road-trippers, the Midland Trail invites you to slow down. Savor the echoes of the past. As the Mountain State’s first scenic byway, it’s a reminder that some paths are timeless.
As always, thank you for riding with me!
https://youtu.be/o9FwRsVgSbE
https://noggy.org – The Noggy.Net
Visibility: Mostly Sunny
*GPS Coordinate Data Provided on bottom left corner with date and speed*
Destinations in West Virginia by appearance:
Cross Lanes
Nitro
Saint Albans
Scott Depot (9:00)
Morgan’s Landing (20:00)
Winfield (24:00)
Dunbar (39:00)
South Charleston
Charleston (1:02:30)
Greenbrier Street/WV State Capitol (1:11:00)
Malden (1:27:00)
Rand
Dupont
Bell
Diamond
Quincy
Listen while you ride: My Spotify Playlists
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5FI2WfzKqFIz5dD0BOA1iw?si=4f12084e12b247ec – Mix
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5IWoDtlir7k6eww0PNVdGh?si=dca253ebf4e94ac1 – Chill
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4TNiUuJHvogwtk7ZxWoOpl?si=d4594c2bf5ff4328 – Upbeat
