Kaymoor
800 Steps to History
State: West Virginia
County: Fayette County
Founded: 1899
Abandoned: 1962
Peak Population: 600
Kaymoor was a coal mining community perched on the walls of the New River Gorge. The mine operated from 1899 to 1962. Today, the ruins are accessible via a steep trail with over 800 steps descending into the gorge - one of the most dramatic ghost town experiences in America.
Gorge Mining
Mining the steep walls of the gorge required innovative engineering. Coal was lowered down cables to trains below.
National Park
The New River Gorge became a National Park in 2020. The Kaymoor Trail takes visitors to the coke ovens and mine ruins.
Timeline
- 1899 - Founded Mining operations began
- 1920s - Peak Full operation
- 1962 - Closed Mining ended
- 2020 - National Park New River Gorge designated
Plan Your Visit
Best Time: Spring or fall
Difficulty: Strenuous - 800+ steps
Time Needed: 2-3 hours
Quick Facts
- Trail has 821 steps
- Coke ovens still visible
- Part of New River Gorge National Park
Location
Address: New River Gorge National Park, West Virginia
Coordinates: 38.0569, -81.0692