In pre-colonial days, the Paint Creek Trail, traversing parts of Kanawha, Fayette and Raleigh counties, was a heavily used overland trail which bypassed the rugged New River Gorge. Indians utilized the salt, game and outcroppings of black flint found along the trail. When taken captive, Mary Ingles traveled this trail. The New River Gorge National Park website notes that Ingles escaped home along the New River. Today, the West Virginia Turnpike provides passageway through the Paint Creek watershed.

Historical sites deserving protection abound along the Paint Creek Trail. Portions of the trial are now under the threat of impending mountaintop removal. If you want to learn more and get involved to save the Paint Creek Trail, contact Dwight Siemiaczko at (304) 595-3325.