Caperton Rail-Trail

Great for walking, running, or bicycling, this paved, 6-mile rail trail parallels the Monongahela River and connects downtown Morgantown with Star City. Moving north to south from its junction with the Mon River Trail-North (a crushed limestone trail that extends north to Pennsylvania), the Caperton Trail runs through Star City and the Edith Barill Riverfront Park. At the park, there is public trail parking, picnic tables, restrooms, and a boat ramp. Trailside in Star City is the Terra Cafe, a great mid-activity stopping point for coffee, lunch, or baked goods. Continuing south from Star City, leave the urban environment behind for a more secluded experience. Around mile 2, pass the West Virginia University Core Arboretum, where several trails exist through floodplain and hillside forest. The trail begins to enter the greater Morgantown area about a mile past the Arboretum. Watch for West Virginia University's elevated monorail (Personal Rapid Transit or "PRT") as it parallels the trail for the next few miles. At Seneca Center, you can find a trailside running shop and bike shop service. Next, the trail reaches Hazel Ruby McQuain Riverfront Park. Here, there are restrooms, water, and numerous benches and lawns for relaxing. Metered parking is also available here. At Hazel Ruby, the Decker's Creek Trail also begins, which extends southwest for another 19 miles. After crossing the bridge over Deckers Creek at its confluence with the Monongahela River, the Caperton Trail continues south, passing by the enticing smells of trailside restaurants in Morgantown's Wharf District. Further public parking is available near the Mountaineer Heritage Park, about 0.5 miles south of Hazel Ruby. From the Mountaineer Heritage Park, the trail continues another 1.5 miles until the pavement ends at Morgantown city limits. There is no public parking at this end of the trail. Though the Caperton Trail ends here, the crushed limestone Mon River Trail South continues another 17.3 miles south to Prickett's Fort State Park.