The South Branch Potomac River runs through the Allegheny Mountains of Hampshire and Hardy Counties in West Virginia. And along it is a narrow, six-mile wooded gorge that is almost inaccessibly steep. Bounded by Mill Creek Mountain to the west and Sawmill Ridge to the east, this area is only open to a select few paddlers and train travelers. But if you’re one of those lucky few with a boat or a train ticket, you’re in for a beautiful journey.
The forested slopes draining into The Trough are dotted with pine, oak, paw paw, hickory, and other vegetation.
Ruberhelios / Wikipedia
Several rock outcrops also line both sides of these steep slopes.
Travellover / Tripadvisor
Canoers and kayakers enjoy paddling this gorgeous stretch of Class I-II river.
Cmd7172 / Wikipedia
Rent a canoe or catch a shuttle with your own canoe or kayak from Trough General Store in Glebe, West Virginia, which is perched right along the South Branch at The Trough’s mouth.
Amanda S / Tripadvisor
If you can work out your own boating and transport, then start your paddle at the railroad trestle at Sycamore, just below where Stony Run merges with the South Branch Potomac River. Take the river all the way to the Harmison’s Public Access Site, which is located behind The Trough General Store.
Susan C / Tripadvisor If needed, take advantage of several primitive campsites along the river between these two locations.
If you aren’t up for boating through this remote area, you can opt to ride through on the Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad operated on the South Branch Valley Railroad line out of Romney, West Virginia.
Travellover / Tripadvisor As the name “Potomac Eagle Scenic” implies, keep an eye out for bald eagles along this scenic route along the South Branch Potomac, whether you’re paddling or riding the train through this steep valley.
Here’s another interesting tidbit: a skirmish of the French and Indian War, the Battle of the Trough, was fought here in 1756. So not only is it a scenic journey, but a historic one as well.
Eric / Tripadvisor
To learn more, visit the Trough General Store’s website. If you’d rather ride the train, read up on that option here.
Ruberhelios / Wikipedia
Travellover / Tripadvisor
Cmd7172 / Wikipedia
Amanda S / Tripadvisor
Susan C / Tripadvisor
If needed, take advantage of several primitive campsites along the river between these two locations.
As the name “Potomac Eagle Scenic” implies, keep an eye out for bald eagles along this scenic route along the South Branch Potomac, whether you’re paddling or riding the train through this steep valley.
Eric / Tripadvisor
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Address: The Trough, West Virginia 26757, USA
