31-07-2025
Making new connections: Uffington trailhead open for recreation
MORGANTOWN — It was sunshine and smiles Wednesday morning as community members, trail advocates and local students gathered to celebrate the ribbon cutting of a new trailhead and connector path at the Uffington Monongahela River Access site.
'This has been a vision for two decades,' said Ella Belling, executive director of the Mon River Trails Conservancy, to a cheerful crowd. 'And today, we finally get to see it come to life.' Executive Director of the Mon River Trails Conservancy Ella Belling addresses the crowd during the ribbon cutting of the new Uffington Monongahela River Access site. Cassidy Roark/ The Dominion Post
The new connector links the Mon River Rail-Trail to a Division of Natural Resources boat access site along Route 73, turning what was once just a river launch into a full multi-use recreation spot. With more than 20 new parking spaces and shaded trail access, the updated site is now a beautiful destination for runners, bikers, paddlers and nature lovers.
'This site has always been a great place to fish or get on the water,' Belling said. 'But now you can also start your bike ride, take a jog or meet up with a group for a walk — all from one place.'
Among the attendees was Morgantown High School's cross country team, led by head coach Mike Ryan, who brought his runners out for a morning workout to embrace the new site. Morgantown's cross country team gathered together for an early run before joining the ribbon cutting on Wednesday morning. Cassidy Roark/ The Dominion Post
'We've got about 60 kids, and this makes a huge difference,' Ryan said. 'Before, we had to run along the road just to get to the trail, and that was dangerous. Now we can meet here, get right on the path, and not worry about traffic. Plus, the shade is a big win on hot days.'
The project was a true community effort. The Conservancy worked closely with the DNR, the State Rail Authority, and contractor Mountain Valley Resources to make it happen. Funding came from the Oakland Foundation, individual donors like Stephen Wetmore and Mary Wimmer, and local businesses including Central Supply Company of West Virginia.
The West Virginia Land Trust also played a supportive role, co-hosting the Blue Jean Ball fundraiser and partnering with the Conservancy on other trail connectors in the region.
'It does take more than just the dream of it, it takes a lot of effort to see it to completion,' Belling added, while recognizing all who contributed. Attendees and contributors on the Uffington trailhead access during the ribbon cutting on Wednesday morning. Cassidy Roark/ The Dominion Post
The connector has been open for about a month, and already trail users are taking notice. The trailhead sits at mile 13.5 of the Mon River Rail-Trail, which is just 3.5 miles from Morgantown's Wharf District and about 15.5 miles from Pricketts Fort State Park.
With its expanded parking, easier access and riverside view, the new trailhead is already becoming a well-noticed launch point for the community.
'This is just one more piece of our bigger puzzle,' Belling said. 'Our vision is a 238-mile trail system connecting Parkersburg to Pittsburgh. But every connection like this one brings us closer to that goal and gives our community a new way to get outside and move.'
After the ribbon was cut, visitors enjoyed light refreshments and of course, took a stroll across the new path.
'We've reached Hall of Fame trail status,' Belling said with a smile. 'And this is exactly the kind of project that shows why.'
