CLAY, WV (SWVO) – A century-old railroad deep in the heart of West Virginia is now home to a one-of-a-kind outdoor experience as Rail Explorers opens its newest location along the historic Buffalo Creek and Gauley Railroad for its second season in Clay.
Originally built in 1904, the line once transported coal from the mines of Widen and lumber from Swandale’s sawmill until its closure in 1965.
Today, that same stretch of rail offers a peaceful, scenic journey through Appalachian history—this time by pedal-powered rail bikes.
Rail Explorers offers two distinct tours in the region: the daytime Buffalo Creek Cruise and the evening Lantern Cruise.
Both are 12-mile round trips that take about two hours and pass landmarks such as the Devil’s Sawmill waterfall and the rebuilt Sandfork Bridge.
Riders can bring snacks and drinks to enjoy during a break along the creek.
Each rail bike, known as an “Explorer,” is equipped with a custom-built electric motor system—the REX Propulsion System—making the ride easy for all ages and fitness levels.
The Lantern Cruise departs at dusk, with rail bikes outfitted with lights and guests carrying lanterns to guide their way back in the dark.
The West Virginia location opened last summer and has just recently opened for the 2025 season.
Rail Explorers was founded by Mary Joy Lu and her husband Alex Catchpoole in 2015, after Lu was inspired by a Korean drama that featured a rail bike.
Intrigued, she flew to South Korea to learn more, eventually bringing the first fleet of these unique vehicles to the U.S.
After launching in New York’s Adirondacks to overwhelming enthusiasm, the company has since hosted over 600,000 riders across the country.
For tickets and more information, visit railexplorers.net.
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