National Pike Trail Council

The National Pike Trail Council is working to create an on and off road Trail following the Right of Way of the Hempfield Railroad that once connected Washington PA and Wheeling WVA. The current trail has 2 miles completed to the east of Claysville, PA. With the cooperation of the Washington County Board of Commissioners, Borough of Claysville, and neighboring townships there is a renewed effort to expand west to West Alexander and east to Washington. The Trail features three pre-Civil War tunnels on the current section that is open and offers a workout station. There are future possibilities to connect with McGuffey High School and a planned loop trail at McGuffey Park. The monthly meeting of volunteers is the third Wednesday of each month at the Social Hall of Sacred Heart Church in Claysville at 6:30 pm.

The National Pike Trail Council is applying for the C2P2 DCNR Trail Planning Grant to fund a Feasibility Study that is necessary for further development. The grant award requires 50% matching funds that do not need to be allocated at this time but need to be secured by March 31st, 2025.

The Trail is looking for volunteers of all ages and capabilities on and off trail.