white oak rail trail (oak hill trail)

Ace Adventure Resort is not just for adrenaline junkies. My son and I went ATVing with Brandon and Kelly. While my son wanted to push the ATVs to the limits, I was significantly less adventurous. What impressed me the most was how well Brandon and Kelly handled our divergent needs. I remember the sensitivity Brandon displayed when I informed him that I was not going to be able to go down hills. In a sympathetic and non-condescending tone Brandon told me that this was West Virginia and there are hills. Brandon and Kelly then ensured that my son and I had the rides of our lives. My son had an adrenaline filled ride. I had a ride well within my comfort zone. So if you come from a mixed family (adrenalin & non-adrenaline junkies) know that Ace Adventure Resort is a good choice for both.

Our whole family enjoyed a good bit of this trail. Although it was hard to find from the Rails to Trails website, once we did I didn't want to leave. We found a trailhead before the Pizza Hut off Oyler road. From the gravel lot, turn left and then left again for a ride through town, past the fire station, police station and old railroad station. Then the trail splits and we took the path to the right. Long downhill coast was shady but that also meant a harder ride back. Turn left from the gravel lot and then right down the path and you'll be in a shady, less populated area. We didn't go too far that way since we were hungry and Cafe 110 was calling our name!

These trails are just great. Since they were created from railroad tracks through Oak Hill, the grade is never too steep. I've seen foxes, raccoons, snakes (just the small garden variety) and plenty of cats. Unfortunately, there are also a few dogs whose owners do not keep them on leashes. As a runner, this is a particular problem and I usually try to make my presence known well before I reach them on the trail. That said, it's well worth the risk and most of the dogs are very friendly. If you're into botany, you'll also enjoy the various plants, trees, and blooms at various times during the year. These trails were a long time coming, but well worth the wait.