The Wheeling Heritage Trails are an important element of Wheeling’s vitality and represent the evolution of our city, which was once filled with railroad tracks. Now, the City of Wheeling is home to more than 18 miles of paved walking/bicycle trails that run along the Ohio River and throughout the city. The route is flat and paved, and beautiful signs along the way provide a self-guided tour of Wheeling's past.
The Ohio River Trail segment runs from 48th Street at Water Street in South Wheeling north to Pike Island Locks and Dam in Clearview. The trail provides an urban escape and an opportunity to soak up local history and modern industry in this historical city. The route follows the eastern bank of the Ohio River, once the lifeblood of the city's manufacturing industry. Barges still go up and down the river, and with good timing and patience you can watch one progress through the series of locks. Take a break to rest on a bench and you will be rewarded with a splendid view of the river and wildlife. This trail connects to the Wheeling Creek Trail at Heritage Port.
From downtown Wheeling, the Wheeling Creek Trail heads east to Elm Grove. Along the way, you'll cross high above Wheeling Creek on the Hempfield Viaduct and pass through Hempfield Tunnel, built in 1904. This segment of the Wheeling Heritage Trails is less urban and meanders along a wooded corridor.
It is worth noting that at the trail's northern terminus, you can pick up the nearly 7-mile Brooke Pioneer Trail and continue your journey all the way to Wellsburg for a more substantial ride.
Please visit our partners at the West Virginia State Trails Program!
To access the trail downtown, park at the Intermodal Parking Garage beside Wesbanco Arena (Home of the Wheeling Nailers & the West Virginia Roughriders) and venture north or south along the Ohio River. To get to the northern endpoint, travel north on River Road and look for Pike Island Locks and Dam on the left. The parking lot is in front of the dam. The southern endpoint is located at the intersection of 48th Street and Water Street in downtown Wheeling. The eastern endpoint is located at the end of Lava Avenue near the Wheeling Skatepark & the J.B. Chambers I-470 Recreational Complex.