A Legacy in Every Mile
The National Pike Trail dates back to 1991 as an initiative of the late State Representative Roger Raymond Fischer. It was incorporated in 2001 and currently has 2 completed miles east of Claysville with a current effort to expand west toward the original goal of West Alexander at the West Virginia state line and further east by means of RAIL BANKING to Taylorstown and Washington. A Spur trail is possible to McGuffey High School as well as a connection to a planned loop trail at McGuffey Park.
The original railway was constructed in the early 1850’s and was a direct route to the Ohio River from Washington Pa following the original National Pike. (Rt. 40) The trail has 3 usable tunnels, one of which is 750 ft in length. (soon to lighted by a grant from the Washington County Tourism Promotion Agency).
We tentatively have access through Claysville Borough via private parcels and back streets to connect to McGuffey Park. From there via Old National Pike we hope to connect to a portion of TC Energy’s Right of Way. After the current active mining in the area, we hope that Tunnel Ridge Coal Co. will partner us as well to continue from the west end of TC’s property (near I 70 bridge) to a Trail Head at Tunnel #2 which is owned by Washington County. Tunnel #2 is currently closed but could still be used as a Trail Head and Historical Area. Some cost estimates are of equal amount either as a repair or demolition of this tunnel. Repair would potentially allow continuation to the WVA border.
To the east of the current end of the Trail near McGuffey High School, we hope to incrementally expand toward Washington via the Rail Banking Program
And, eventually connect via the proposed Chartiers Creek Greenways Trail to the SouthPointe
Montour Connector and the Trail Nation Collaborative.
Discover Life Along the Trail
Historic Landmarks
Walk where history happened. Explore preserved markers and architecture that tell the story of America's first federal highway.
Trail
Events
Discover the vibrant pulse of our community through seasonal festivals and historic gatherings. Our events celebrate the enduring legacy of the National Pike, bringing neighbors together and welcoming visitors to experience our local traditions first-hand.
Pike Heritage Festival
May 16 - 17
Pike Hike
May 17th
Corny 5k
August 15th
A cornerstone celebration featuring traditional music, local artisans, and historic reenactments. Experience the sights and sounds that have defined our road for generations.
3rd annual 5k Run during National Pike Days. Join your neighbors for an exploration of our scenic paths. Highlight our trail's natural beauty and local flora while getting your steps in!
Join us for the Corny 5k & 1 mile run/walk. During corn and wheat harvest time, we are holding this event to help raise funds for the restoration of First Lutheran Church. Our church building is 100 years old this year in 2026 and we are fundraising for various repairs and updates.
Volunteer for Clean-ups
Keep the trail beautiful by participating in our seasonal community clean-up days.
Help Us Preserve the Pike
The National Pike is more than just a road; it's a living history that belongs to all of us. Join your neighbors in Claysville to ensure this heritage remains vibrant for generations to come.
Sponsor Local Events
Help us host festivals and history talks that bring our community together.
Partner as a Business
Local businesses play a vital role in supporting and promoting the Pike Trail legacy.
Resources
DCNR Ready to Go Checklist
https://www.emheritage.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Project-Checklist-Ready-to-go-Checklist.pdf