Taking a rugged shortcut on State Route 5, I reached the Canyon Rim Visitor Center, an excellent beginning for visitors touring the area. From there, I wound down to the river at Fayette Station, a class IV whitewater rapid under the bridge. I saw a few paddlers sizing up the rapid before plunging down with excited, perhaps frightened, yells. Rafting and kayaking are both extremely popular here; six major raft companies offer trips on all sections of both rivers. I took a couple requisite photos and rode on.
All the roads around have great riding – twisties, up and down big hills, over rivers and creeks, through the woods, and across occasional farmland. There can be some rough spots. West Virginia topography has everything slowly oozing downhill, and winter freeze-thaws can be damaging.
Clockwise from left: State Route 5 barely qualifies as“ secondary.” Private boaters rafting on Fayette Station rapid below the bridge. Southside Junction – a cozy corner bar in town. The portal at Kaymoor mine, backfilled and barred to keep out the adventurous.
24 / SEPTEMBER 2026 / RIDERMAGAZINE. COM