Trail Overview
The Nettie to Richwood route is an easy, scenic point-to-point dirt and gravel trail that is perfect for beginners, families, and overland enthusiasts seeking a relaxed journey through West Virginia's backcountry. Spanning approximately 36.8 miles through Nicholas County, this route takes about three and a half hours to complete as it winds past scenic ridges and dense Appalachian forests. Along the way, travelers will climb from a minimum elevation of 2,267 feet up to a peak of 4,188 feet, passing landmarks like Beech Knob, Grassy Knob, and the Nicholas County Wind Mill Farm. The trail offers excellent opportunities to spot local wildlife and historical, abandoned structures scattered throughout the rolling hills.
The driving surface is composed entirely of easy-going dirt and gravel roads, making it suitable for stock four-wheel-drive vehicles, SUVs, and SxSs. With a low technical difficulty rating, the main road presents minimal obstacles, though drivers should stay alert for oncoming traffic on the narrower sections. An abundance of intersecting side roads allows adventurers to customize their itinerary or stretch the tour into a multi-day camping and offroading trip. Travelers are encouraged to pack out all trash and respect the pristine natural environment to keep these public access routes open and clean.
