Suggested time: 2-5 hours

Canyon Rim Visitor Center

Stop and pick up a map that will show you how to get to Thurmond.

Thurmond Railroad Station

The National Park Service has a small museum and visitor center located in the refurbished train station at Thurmond, an historic little coal town on the banks of the New River. The movie Matewan was filmed here.

Southside Junction Trail

You passed this trailhead coming down to Thurmond, so retrace your steps about a mile and you’ll see the signs on the right. This is a perfect trail for the beginning mountain biker: wide, not technical and pretty flat. You’ll be happy hiking it as well. It continues for miles, so head out as far as you chose then come on back. You can rent bikes, at New River Bike and Tour, 574-BIKE.

Eat!

All your activity has earned you a great meal. Head for Fayetteville and pick a restaurant.