The Limerock Trail is pure West Virginia: From Forest Service Road 18, the 4-mile rail-trail passes through rhododendron forests and along rocky cliffs and rushing streams. You begin with the sound of the rapids from Tub Run, and they quietly disappear as you head west down the ridge toward Hendricks.
There are several places on the trail where you will have to traverse a stream. When the water level is low, it's possible to do this by rock-hopping; otherwise, your feet will get wet. After about 1.5 miles, you will reach Big Run, where the blue blazes marking the path become more sporadic; however, the trail is still easy to follow. After Big Run, you will come to Flat Rock Run. Departing briefly from the trail and following this creek downhill will bring you to a 20-foot waterfall.
The trail ends at the Blackwater Canyon Trail. To avoid the Limerock Trail's uphill return hike, you can follow the Blackwater Canyon about 5 miles north to Coketon or 2 miles south to Hendricks.
From Elkins, take US 219 north toward Parsons. About 10 miles after you pass Parsons, you will see a sign on the right for Forest Service Road 18. Turn right here and then take the next left, which is actually the continuation of Forest Service Road 18 (there is no sign indicating this). You will need a four-wheel-drive vehicle to reach the trail on this road, as it is not paved and is very rutted, with at least one stream crossing. After about 3.5 miles, you will see a sign for the Limerock Trail on your right. You may park on the side of the road.
For a longer hike, you can take US 219 toward Parsons and then take State Route 72 to Hendricks. On SR 72, you will see to your right the Allegheny Highlands Trail trailhead. Park in this lot, located near the Blackwater River on your right, and take the Allegheny Highlands Trail across SR 72 to the Blackwater Canyon Trail. This trail will meet Limerock about 2 miles north of Hendricks.
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