US Route 60 follows the Midland Trail Scenic Byway through some of the most stunning and historic sections of West Virginia. It also provides drivers with thrills and panic attacks as it winds through the heart of the rugged Appalachians. When you embark on this scenic tour of the state, prepare for plenty of driving adventures – and none more adventurous than the trek around Gauley Mountain.

All 172 miles of the Midland Trail from Kenova to White Sulphur Springs abound with scenic beauty and historical interest. However, as you leave the Kanawha River Valley behind and climb east into the mountains at Gauley Bridge, the driving fun begins. Following the gorge of the New River, you'll first pass the acclaimed Cathedral Falls, one of the most beautiful and accessible falls in the state.
Janel/Tripadvisor
A minute later you'll see the historic (and infamous) Hawks' Nest-Gauley Bridge Hydro Power Station on your right.
Don Johnson/Google Maps
Soon after this, the road starts following the sharp contours of the New River Gorge as it cuts through the mountain. Hold on as you wind along curve after switchback curve, several hundred feet above the river gorge below!
Boston Public Library/Flickr

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About halfway there, stop for a breather at Chimney Corner - try the great food and friendly atmosphere of the Chimney Corner Cafe, then browse in the old Country Store for some authentic Appalachian keepsakes.
James H Martin Jr/Google Maps
Then it's on around the winding mountain, finally arriving at Hawks Nest State Park, where you'll want to stop, take a break, and absorb the spectacular views of the New River Gorge or even take the tram down to the river and another waterfall.
Trypp Adams/Google Maps
Steep and sharp-turned as it is, people have been navigating this stretch for dozens of years...and enjoying the surrounding beauty of our rugged mountains.
Boston Public Library/Wikipedia

And while there are lots of great drives throughout the state, none is quite like the Midland Trail along Gauley Mountain for its combination of breathtaking beauty and white-knuckle driving. Buckle up and enjoy!

To learn more about the Hawks Nest Tunnel Disaster referenced in the above article, head here.

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Featured Addresses
Cathedral Falls, Gauley Bridge, WV 25085, USA
Chimney Corner, WV 25812, USA
Hawks Nest State Park, 49 Hawks Nest Rd, Ansted, WV 25812, USA