The Allegheny Highlands Trail starts in Elkins and now reaches Hendricks. It is a project resulting from an agreement between WVDOH and the USFS management of the Monongahela National Forest that such a trail is appropriate mitigate the impacts of the Corridor H Project. The popular hiking and biking segment from Hendricks to Thomas has yet to be improved as part of the AHT. From Thomas, the trail will go past the north side of Davis near WV93 and the future Davis-to-Bismark section of Corridor H. In all likelihood, there will be signage and a trailhead allowing travelers to exit into the Blackwater Falls State Park, and reach downtown Davis via the Park's trails.
The segment from Coketon to Thomas passes through ruins of coke ovens (pictured) and related historic buildings, earning the site its eligibility in the National Register of Historic Places. Assuming this plan is implemented (more or less) we can expect much more than just a trail...Thematic areas are planned for construction in downtown Thomas and at the site of the coke ovens. These will include illustrative panels, informational kiosks, thematic seating and surfaces -- all aimed at educating and capturing the imaginations of visitors. I read about this in the USFS plan for the trail, which I am sure has several approvals and budgetary hurdles ahead. Nonetheless, it is exciting to glimpse the future trail systems surrounding Davis and Thomas.
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