This cache is easily located from either the Rail Trail Access Trail or the Extra Mile Trail at North Bend State Park, Cairo, WV. Both trails are relatively flat and easy to hike, with the Rail Trail Access trail made up of crushed limestone and the Extra Mile trail paved asphalt with a metal railing the duration of the path. The Rail Trail Access trail runs about 1 mile to the North Bend Rail Trail, starting at Shelter 3. The Extra Mile trail starts at the North Bend State Park Nature Center and ends at a handicap accessible deck in the woods.
Both trails are well used, with the Rail Trail Access trail allowing walkers, hikers, bicyclists, and horseback riders, however the Extra Mile trail only allows walkers and hikers. Please be respectful of all user groups. Be aware that most trails in the park are open to all user groups, but any motorized means are not permitted on trails at North Bend State Park.
The Extra Mile trail is built on the old railroad bed of the Harrisville Southern Railroad, running from Cornwallis, WV into Harrisville, WV. The broad gauge railroad was in operation from about 1909 through 1929. The Rail Trail Access trail was also part of the bed for the Harrisville Southern Railroad, the connection between the two occurring at the current intersection of the trails.
Parking is available at the Recreation Area of the park, Shelter 3, or the designated Rail Trail parking area. All are relatively close to one another, it really depends on which trail you are using to access the cache.
Be respectful of the state park and help keep it clean and safe for future seekers.
A PDF version of a map of the trails of North Bend State Park can be found at the enclosed URL address.