The Elkhorn Inn and Theatre in McDowell County was recently named one of the coolest vacation rentals in America by USAToday, and they are absolutely right. This historic “Coal Heritage Trail” experience is an essential addition to your West Virginia bucket list!

If the mountains are calling you to come (and you know they always are!), then pack your bags and head to the Elkhorn Inn in McDowell County.

Elkhorn Inn & Theatre/Facebook This award-winning inn and restaurant is nestled among towering mountain slopes right along the train tracks of the historic Coal Heritage Trail.

This train-themed bed and breakfast, built in 1922 as the Empire Coal and Coke Company’s Miner Clubhouse, is sure to please.

Elkhorn Inn & Theatre/Facebook The food is delicious, the history is fascinating, and the setting is gorgeous.

In the spring, come dig for the ramps. In the summer, enjoy the field of sunflowers out back. In the fall, view the vibrant colors of the changing leaves.

Elkhorn Inn & Theatre/Facebook And in winter, stay warm while watching the snow fall on the mountain.

There are 14 guestrooms, plus a dining room, common areas, and a small museum.

Elkhorn Inn & Theatre/Facebook The guestrooms, like this Greenbriar Guest Room, are clean and colorful, with beautiful views of trains and mountains.

Chef and co-owner Dan serves up award-winning breakfasts for all guests (and dinners by reservation).

Elkhorn Inn & Theatre/Facebook This is the only restaurant in this area on the “Bon Appetit Appalachia” foodie map!

There’s plenty of hiking, fishing, and historic sites throughout the area to enjoy when you visit.

Elkhorn Inn & Theatre/Facebook Or just sit, relax, and watch the trains.

So add the Elkhorn Inn and Theatre to your bucket list today, and start planning a trip to answer the call of the mountains!

Elkhorn Inn & Theatre/Facebook

Rooms start at around $100/night. Free wireless internet and a continental breakfast are included. The Elkhorn Inn and Theatre is pet-friendly. To learn more or book your stay, visit their website.

Elkhorn Inn & Theatre/Facebook

This award-winning inn and restaurant is nestled among towering mountain slopes right along the train tracks of the historic Coal Heritage Trail.

The food is delicious, the history is fascinating, and the setting is gorgeous.

And in winter, stay warm while watching the snow fall on the mountain.

The guestrooms, like this Greenbriar Guest Room, are clean and colorful, with beautiful views of trains and mountains.

This is the only restaurant in this area on the “Bon Appetit Appalachia” foodie map!

Or just sit, relax, and watch the trains.

As you plan your visit to McDowell County, consider reserving a time to tour this little known World War I museum nearby!

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Address: 30767 Coal Heritage Rd, Northfork, WV 24868, USA