Leo Martínez
Pax and Paint Creek are closely connected in West Virginia. Paint Creek is a 42.1-mile tributary of the Kanawha River, which runs through the town of Pax. The town of Pax was founded by Howard Hughes' great-great-grandfather, a surveyor. The creek was once lined with houses and mines, but now it is a scenic spot known for its trout stream, attracting anglers, paddlers, and those looking for a back-road adventure. The creek is also popular for cycling and kayaking. The distance between Pax and Paint Creek is not specified, but one source mentions a route that starts at the Paint Creek Exit of I-77 and follows Paint Creek upstream to Pax.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Distance | Paint Creek is a 42.1-mile (67.8 km) tributary of the Kanawha River. |
| Route | The route from Paint Creek to Pax follows the I-77 and I-64 West Virginia Turnpike. |
| Activities | Paint Creek offers fishing, swimming, kayaking, and cycling opportunities. |
| History | Paint Creek was once heavily polluted by coal mining and home to busy coal camps. Now, it is known for its natural beauty and as a destination for outdoor activities. |
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What You'll Learn
Paint Creek is a popular spot for fishing, kayaking, and swimming
Paint Creek is around 14.7 miles from Pax, West Virginia. The route from Pax to Paint Creek follows the Paint Creek Scenic Trail and is a popular cycling route. The trail also offers the perfect opportunity to go fishing, kayaking, and swimming.
Paint Creek Falls, also known as Westerly Falls, is a hidden gem nestled within the lush forests of the Appalachian Mountains in Fayette County. The pristine and remote waterfall swimming hole is the perfect spot to unwind and connect with nature. The crystal-clear waters cascading down rocky ledges create a serene and peaceful atmosphere. The cool, clean water is ideal for a refreshing dip on a hot summer day, and the surrounding natural beauty is a sight to behold. Families with young children can enjoy splashing around in the shallow pools near the base of the falls, while more adventurous swimmers can explore hidden swimming holes, old ruins, and smaller cascades further upstream or downstream. The natural rock formations form a variety of pools and eddies that are perfect for swimming and playing in the water. Sandstone slabs and pebble beaches provide ample space for sunbathing, and for those seeking a thrill, there is reportedly a rope swing.
Paint Creek is also known for its trout fishing. The creek has been stocked with trout, making it a popular destination for anglers. The clear waters and scenic surroundings add to the appeal for those pursuing the "great pursuit" of trout fishing. Whether using bait, lure, or fly, anglers can enjoy casting their lines in the hope of catching one of these prized fish.
In addition to swimming and fishing, Paint Creek offers a tranquil escape for kayaking and exploring. The remote location and peaceful atmosphere provide a unique and rejuvenating experience for outdoor enthusiasts. The historic Paint Creek Scenic Trail, with its crystal-clear waters and lush surroundings, is the perfect setting for those seeking to reconnect with nature. Whether adventuring by kayak or on foot, visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of the great outdoors.
Overall, Paint Creek is a hidden treasure in West Virginia, offering a diverse range of activities for nature lovers. From swimming in pristine waterfall pools to casting a line for trout or paddling down the creek, Paint Creek provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
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The creek runs through the town of Pax
The town of Pax, West Virginia, is known for its trout stream, Paint Creek, which runs through the town. The creek is a 42.1-mile tributary of the Kanawha River, and it is part of the Mississippi River watershed. Paint Creek rises in north-central Raleigh County and flows north through various communities before eventually entering Kanawha County.
The creek's path takes it through the town of Pax, where it is a popular spot for fishing, swimming, and kayaking. The scenic waterway is known for its beauty, with waterfalls and laurel glens, and it is gaining ground as a destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The creek was once heavily polluted by mine drainage, but thanks to the efforts of residents and former residents, it has been cleaned up and transformed into a vibrant fishery.
The history of Paint Creek is closely tied to the coal mining industry. In the early 20th century, there were 41 mines on the creek, and it was once home to some of the busiest coal camps in the region. The creek was also the site of the first mine wars in West Virginia in 1912-13, when miners went on strike to demand higher wages, fairer employment laws, and better living conditions.
Today, Paint Creek offers a relaxing and scenic alternative to the I-64/77 corridor for travellers looking to learn about the natural, cultural, and historic heritage of the area. The Paint Creek Scenic Trail, founded by Howard Hughes, is a 44-mile route that begins at Tamarack in Beckley, WV, and travels to the town of Pratt along the Kanawha River. Along the way, visitors can enjoy some of southern West Virginia's best trout fishing, hiking, and biking.
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Cycling and driving routes are available for tourists
Cycling Routes
West Virginia offers a range of cycling routes for tourists to explore. The Paint Creek Out & Back route is a flat ride with some ramps to give your legs a workout. Starting at the Paint Creek Exit of I-77, the route follows Paint Creek upstream to the town of Pax, passing through ghost towns like Bedford, Detroit, Morton, Tomsburg, and Burnwell.
Another option is the Mahan to Mossy section, designated as a WV Scenic Byway, which takes you past historical signs, under and over I-77, and to the only remaining active mine on Paint Creek.
For those seeking a challenge, the Highland Scenic Highway is a 43-mile stretch through Routes 39 and 150, offering unparalleled views of the Allegheny Highlands and the Monongahela National Forest.
The Midland Trail, also known as Route 60, is a historic 160-mile highway that spans the entire state, starting in Kenova and heading towards Charleston and White Sulphur Springs.
West Virginia's Waterfall Trail is another option, taking you to historic towns, Seneca Rocks, Blackwater Falls, and other unique West Virginian sights.
The state also offers rail trails, which provide flat out-and-back experiences, as well as gravel rides and quiet back roads with scenic vistas.
Driving Routes
West Virginia offers a variety of scenic driving routes to suit different preferences. The Mountain Rides take you through the state's rugged beauty, rich history, and country roads. You can explore the mountainous backcountry, wildflower-filled valleys, and quaint mountain towns.
For a waterside experience, a 130-mile road trip starting in Hinton offers scenic views, boating, and fishing. This trip includes iconic sights such as the Glade Creek Grist Mill in Babcock State Park and Camp Creek State Forest.
The Highland Scenic Highway, starting in Summersville and heading towards Richwood, offers a 43-mile stretch of winding roads through the Monongahela National Forest.
For rock-climbing enthusiasts, a trip to Seneca Rocks is a must. Start in Harpers Ferry and head west towards Seneca Rocks, either through Virginia or the Green Ridge State Forest in Maryland.
The Eastern Panhandle loop is a relaxing weekend getaway, just a short drive from the Washington and Baltimore metro areas, offering a mix of luxury resorts and rustic campsites.
West Virginia also invites you to explore its small towns, riverside activities, and extraordinary views, all within a few hours' drive from Roanoke.
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The area was once heavily mined for coal
The distance between Pax, WV, and Paint Creek, WV, is unclear, but the two places are close enough to be connected by a cycling route. The route starts at the Paint Creek Exit of I-77 and follows Paint Creek upstream to Pax. The return journey is mostly downhill, with a few short ascents.
The area around Paint Creek was once heavily mined for coal. In the early 20th century, there were 41 mines on Paint Creek, and the creek was lined with houses and mines. Coal companies built and owned entire towns, including the stores and schools. This led to dependence on the coal companies, which bred resentment among the miners. In 1912, miners on Paint Creek and nearby Cabin Creek went on strike, demanding higher wages, fairer employment laws, and better living conditions. This was the first major battle in what became known as the West Virginia Mine Wars.
The dangerous profession of coal mining has taken a toll on the area. According to historical records, 50 men have been killed in mining disasters on Paint Creek since 1894, with many more killed and injured off the records. The creek was heavily polluted with mine drainage in the 1970s, and tons of solid waste had to be removed from old homesites where coal-mining towns once stood.
Coal mining has also shaped the demographics of the area. In the 1950s, most of the coal mines left, reducing towns to ruins in the woods. Today, if you cycle through the area, you will pass through ghost towns like Bedford, Detroit, Morton, Tomsburg, and Burnwell.
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Grassroots groups helped bring the creek back to life
The distance between Pax, WV, and Paint Creek, WV, is not explicitly stated, but the general direction from Pax to Paint Creek is retraced by cyclists on their return journey. The route from Pax to Paint Creek is described as an “out and back" route, indicating that Pax and Paint Creek are located a fair distance apart, with Pax likely being further along the I-77 interstate.
In the early to mid-1900s, Paint Creek was a hub of coal mining activity, with 41 mines operating along its length. Entire towns were built and owned by coal companies, and the area was heavily dependent on them. However, by the 1950s and especially by the 1960s, coal mining had taken a significant toll on Paint Creek. The creek and the surrounding area were heavily polluted, and the waterway was described as "running orange" due to mine drainage.
Grassroots watershed groups, such as the Lower Paint Creek Watershed, played a crucial role in restoring Paint Creek to its former beauty. Through hard work and collaboration with various partners, tons of solid waste were removed from abandoned coal-mining towns, and dams were installed on tributary streams to improve the fish habitat. The creek is now known as a fantastic fishery and a destination for fishing, paddling, and back-road travel.
The Paint Creek Scenic Trails Association, founded and led by Howard Hughes, is another organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the natural beauty of Paint Creek. The association has developed a scenic trail that offers travellers a relaxing and scenic alternative to the interstate. The trail provides opportunities for trout fishing, hiking, and biking, showcasing the natural, cultural, and historic heritage of the area.
The efforts of these grassroots groups and dedicated individuals have transformed Paint Creek, allowing people to enjoy its beauty and natural wonders, such as fishing, swimming, and kayaking.
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Frequently asked questions
Paint Creek is a 42.1-mile (67.8 km) tributary of the Kanawha River, flowing through the town of Pax, so Pax is on Paint Creek.
You can drive, cycle, or walk from Pax, WV, to Paint Creek, WV. The Paint Creek Scenic Trail is a 44-mile scenic byway that begins at Tamarack in Beckley, WV, and travels to the town of Pratt, along the Kanawha River.
Paint Creek is a popular spot for fishing, swimming, and kayaking. It is also a site of historical interest, having once been home to some of the busiest coal camps in the region.
