Braxton County

WV’s Biological Treasure… The Elk River, often called “the best all-in-one river in West Virginia” is recognized among biologists for its exceptional diversity of fish as well as being home to rare invertebrates, including a crayfish found nowhere else in the world. The Elk River Water Trail begins at the tailwaters of the Sutton Dam (I-79 Exit 62) and continues through three counties: Braxton, Clay and Kanawha. The Water Trail has 14 Primary Access Locations and 2 Proposed Sites which are conveniently located close to Interstate 79 exits 1 through 62. All Primary Sites are marked with road signs and some have Elk River Water Trail signage and/or information kiosks. These sites are marked with an asterisk. Elk River Float Every year since 2013 the Elk River Water Trail Group, in partnership with the Braxton County CVB , MonPower, TransCanada, and West Virginia American Water, host the Elk River Summer Float in Braxton County. This canoe and kayak event is typically held in early July. During the Elk River Summer Float a shuttle is provided to help attendees navigate the area as well as relieve the added expense, time, and aggravation of coordinating multiple vehicles and making multiple trip. The shuttle allows attendees drop their gear off at the starting point of the float, drive to the take-out location, and board the shuttle that bring them back to the beginning. This allows the shuttle to be in use for just a short time while also allowing the attendees to spend as much or as little time on the river that they wish. Weather the attendees want to sprint down the river in an hour and a half or spend all day drifting with the current , stopping to fish, or swim. By the time they get to the take-out their vehicles will be waiting for them. Come experience the Elk River, a beautiful & rich part of West Virginia History.