Near Coal Vein Trail
Enjoy great views from the Coal Vein Trail.

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Hike Trail

Coal Vein Trail

3.6 (14 Ratings)
This is a short interpretive trail in Theodore Roosevelt National Park with a brochure available at the trailhead.
0.7
mi
Distance
44
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
BirdingFall ColorsFamily FriendlyViewsWildflowersWildlife

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
0.72mi
Distance
44ft
Elevation Gain
44ft
Elevation Loss
15%
Max Grade
2,503ft
High Point
2,462ft
Low Point
Path Type
Loop
Description
An exposed coal vein along this trail caught fire and burned slowly for 26 years, hence the name of the trail. The vein is no longer burning, but the trail remains. Brochures are available at the trailhead, and information in the brochure matches numbered markers along the trail that are used to point out the geology and ecology of the area. This trail does have some steep sections and stairs, but there is a cutoff that skips most of the steeper parts. It is not handicapped-accessible because of stairs shortly after the start. The trail is not particularly spectacular or interesting for serious hikers, but it makes for a nice stop in the park for families and others that want shorter options.

Route Conditions

Report Conditions
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Contributors
Karen Ryberg