
Nuttallburg Town and Mine Site
Explore the historic remnants of a coal mining town with ties to Henry Ford, nestled in the scenic New River Gorge.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Secluded and peaceful experience

Nuttallburg Town and Mine Site
Best Time
Secluded and peaceful experience
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the historic remnants of a coal mining town with ties to Henry Ford, nestled in the scenic New River Gorge.
"The 30 min drive... is worth your time. Great signage throughout as you walk through the area around the tipple."

🚗 Drive Carefully
The road is narrow with blind turns; use pull-offs and drive cautiously. :oncoming_car:
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Explore the historic site and trails comfortably with good walking shoes. :athletic_shoe:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Tipple Foundations
Main mining area
Explore the remaining foundations of the historic coal tipple, a key structure in the mining operation.

New River Views
Along hiking trails
Enjoy scenic views of the New River, including rapids and potential waterfalls, from the surrounding hiking trails.

Henry Ford Connection
Interpretive signage
Discover the surprising historical connection between this coal mine and industrialist Henry Ford.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
The Scenic Drive In
Historical Immersion
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive Carefully
The road is narrow with blind turns; use pull-offs and drive cautiously. :oncoming_car:
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Explore the historic site and trails comfortably with good walking shoes. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Scenery
Enjoy the beautiful drive and historical remnants; bring your camera! :camerawithflash:
🚽 Facilities Available
There's a park toilet on-site for your convenience. :toilet:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive Carefully
The road is narrow with blind turns; use pull-offs and drive cautiously. :oncoming_car:
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Explore the historic site and trails comfortably with good walking shoes. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Scenery
Enjoy the beautiful drive and historical remnants; bring your camera! :camerawithflash:
🚽 Facilities Available
There's a park toilet on-site for your convenience. :toilet:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the 30-40 minute drive to Nuttallburg, though narrow and winding, to be scenic and worth the effort for the historical insights it offers. The remnants of the coal mining operation, including the tipple foundations, and its connection to Henry Ford are highlights. Some note the road can be rugged, but the solitude and historical significance are highly praised.
"The 30 min drive from the Canyon Rim Visitor Center to this historical landmark is worth your time. The only reason the drive is 30 mins is due to the curving roads that drop down from the top to the bottom of the gorge area where this former coal mining operation sits. The road, while narrow in places, is nicely paved the whole way. There is a park toilet at the site as well. Great signage throughout as you walk through the area around the tipple where the foundations of many buildings remain. The tie to Henry Ford was fascinating, as we had no idea he got involved with coal mining. Really enjoyed this step back in history."
Matt
"30 - 40 min rugged drive single paved and gravel road with pull offs for passing. Beautiful drive using 4x4 with anti sway disengaged on gravel. Passed two trucks on the way out. Hiking trails with views of the New River. Education about history and how early business economies."
Kristopher Whipker
"Great ride to the mining building from the 1800's It is one line with little pull offs to allow cars thru coming the opposite way, route had some blind turns. We went early in the morning very secluded, there was no one there. We saw the train go by."
Blanca Petrillo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The site is about a 30-40 minute drive from the Canyon Rim Visitor Center. The road is a mix of paved and gravel, narrow with blind turns and pull-offs for passing. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended for a smoother experience.
The road can be challenging due to its narrowness and winding nature. Drive slowly, use pull-offs, and be aware of oncoming traffic. Some sections are not paved.
Expect the drive to take approximately 30 to 40 minutes from the Canyon Rim Visitor Center.
The drive itself offers beautiful scenery with pull-offs. Once at the site, there is a park toilet available.
Some visitors have reported seeing trains pass through the area, adding to the historical atmosphere.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no admission fees or tickets required to visit Nuttallburg. It is an open historical site.
Nuttallburg is an outdoor historical site and is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no set opening or closing times.
No, there is no entrance fee to explore the Nuttallburg Town and Mine Site.
While the site is accessible year-round, road conditions can vary with weather, especially in winter. Check local conditions before visiting.
Limited parking is available at the site, especially during peak times. Arriving early can help secure a spot.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the foundations of former mining buildings, including the tipple, and learn about its history, including its connection to Henry Ford.
Yes, there are hiking trails around the site that offer views of the New River and its rapids.
Absolutely! Nuttallburg offers a fascinating glimpse into early 20th-century coal mining and its industrial connections.
It was a significant coal mining operation with a notable connection to Henry Ford, who was involved in its development.
While you can see the creek and potential waterfalls from trails, direct access might be limited or challenging.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the atmospheric ruins of the mining structures, the scenic New River, and the winding approach road. Early morning light is often beautiful.
Yes, the New River views and the rugged terrain offer excellent opportunities for landscape photography.
Early mornings can offer a more secluded experience and beautiful light. Consider the time of day for the best lighting on the ruins.
Drone usage is subject to National Park Service regulations. Check current rules for New River Gorge National Park and Preserve before flying.
A versatile lens for both landscape and detail shots of the ruins would be ideal. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts
🏛️ History Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Journey to Nuttallburg
It's important to be prepared for this unique access. Arriving early in the morning is a popular strategy to enjoy the solitude and avoid encountering too many other vehicles on the single-lane sections. The road's condition can also be a factor, with some sections being less paved than others. Despite the driving challenges, the consensus is that the destination's historical richness and natural beauty make the journey well worth the effort.
Unearthing History at the Mine Site
Walking through Nuttallburg feels like stepping back in time. Visitors can imagine the bustling activity of the early 20th century as they explore the remnants of the town and mine. The surrounding natural beauty of the New River Gorge enhances the experience, with hiking trails offering views of the river's rapids and potential waterfalls. The combination of industrial history and scenic landscapes makes Nuttallburg a unique and memorable destination for those interested in American heritage and the rugged beauty of Appalachia.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit