Mountain's Shadow Trail
For a more rugged version of the Farm Heritage Road, drive Mountain's Shadow Trail. Located, only a few miles from the Appalachian Trail, this road is perfect for hikers looking for a place to enjoy this gigantic trail.Staying true to its rustic roots, the road is mostly one-lane, with some gravel road portions.While this road is not suitable for the hurried, those wanting to see what life was like in the early Appalachian settlements will certainly enjoy driving it.
Lower Greenbrier River Byway
Along the banks of its namesake river, the Lower Greenbrier River Byway makes its way through a beautiful countryside marked by historic settlements and advances in transportation.The byway passes through historic Alderson and its restored Chesapeake & Ohio Railroad depot and unique arched bridge. In Lowell, the Graham House is one of the oldest dwellings in the state built between 1770 and 1772.Used as both a frontier home and a fort against Indian attack this classy log cabin is a far cry from the normal crude cabins of the time.Further west, Talcott's John Henry Monument stands right outside the Big Bend Tunnel.This gigantic rail tunnel was the site of Henry's legendary victory over a steam-powered drill.
Wolf Creek Backway
Just south of the Lower Greenbrier River Byway, the Wolf Creek Backway makes its way through the rolling farmland below Alderson.Comprised of both state and county roads, this backway is a leisurely paved alternative to other, more rustic backways.Spelunkers should know that the surrounding countryside is situated on top of a vast slab of limestone, which over time has become pockmarked with sinkholes and caverns.This gentle road also passes by the Wolf Creek Winery, home to four different kinds of grapes as well as a tasting room.While this backway is largely off the beaten path, there is still ready access to gasoline and food.
Lowell Backway
West of the Wolf Creek Backway, the Lowell Backway travels along a one-lane road through the farmlands of Summers County.While only nine miles long, this backway passes by two historic springs, an old Civilian Conservation Corps camp, and many quaint farms. Largely bypassed by industrialization, much of the countryside surrounding these pastoral roadways has remained almost entirely unchanged from its early pioneer beginnings helping to preserve an authentic rustic feeling.
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