CLIFFTOP, WV (SWVO) – While Babcock State Park in Clifftop is well-known for scenic spots like the Glade Creek Grist Mill, Boley Lake, and the Mann’s Creek Gorge, there’s a lesser-known gem for hikers looking to uncover a piece of West Virginia’s past.
Named for Edward V. Babcock—former owner of the Babcock Coal and Coke Company, which operated in nearby Landisburg and Clifftop—the park has deep ties to the region’s mining and logging heritage.
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, coal and timber from those areas were transported down to the now-abandoned town of Sewell, nestled along the New River.
To support this industry, a narrow gauge rail line known as the Mann’s Creek Railway was constructed in 1886. It remained in use until 1955. Portions of this old railway still shape the park’s layout today.
For example, the narrow lane starting near cabin thirteen and running past the iconic Grist Mill once served as the Landisburg spur, and the existing Narrow Gauge Trail follows the path up to Clifftop.
For many years, the stretch of the former rail bed leading toward Sewell had been blocked by natural obstacles—washouts, fallen trees, and landslides made it impassable.
That changed in early 2022 when Babcock State Park was awarded $700,000 in grants dedicated to trail work.
Thanks to these funds, and the efforts of the West Virginia Department of Highways and state park staff, approximately four miles of the historic railway route have been converted into a hikeable trail ending at the edge of the ghost town.
Improvements include new culverts for drainage, freshly laid gravel, and a newly built bridge spanning Flanagan Branch Falls. Interpretive signage has also been added to enrich the experience for visitors walking this newly restored path.
To access the trail, park at the Grist Mill and walk along Old Sewell Road for about 1.5 miles until you reach a switchback where the Narrow Gauge Trail begins.
Instead of veering off, continue straight on the gravel road. After 2.5 to 3 miles, you’ll reach Flanagan Branch Falls, where a scenic waterfall and an old steam boiler used for refilling water offer a glimpse into the past.
As you continue, panoramic views of the New River and the Cunard train trestle come into sight. The upgraded trail ends roughly four miles in, but adventurous hikers can press on along the original, unmaintained rail bed.
Another mile or two further, you’ll arrive in Sewell—now part of New River Gorge National Park & Preserve.
Once a thriving coal town, Sewell housed 193 coke ovens, multiple businesses including a bottling works and a movie theater, and rows of homes for workers and their families.
Today, remnants of this bygone era still remain: the coke ovens, parts of the steam engine house, larry cars, a rail tank car, old rails, foundations, and tipple remains are all visible as you explore what’s left of the town.
This hike offers not only natural beauty but also a rare chance to walk through history in one of West Virginia’s most fascinating forgotten places.
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