Old Coal Mine Bridge Creek Access

Old Coal Mine Bridge Creek Access is a whitewater put-in on Wheeling Creek in Marshall County, West Virginia. This is a medium-sized stream (Stream Order 4) with a significant gradient of 18.3 feet per mile, making it suitable for whitewater paddling. The creek drops 577 feet in elevation over its 31.58-mile length, indicating substantial gradient and fast-moving water conditions typical of Appalachian headwater streams.

The access point is located near the upper portions of Wheeling Creek, which has an average flow of 122.57 cubic feet per second and average velocity of 1.76 feet per second. Paddlers should expect moderate to moving current conditions throughout their trip. The drainage area of 107 square miles provides consistent water volume, though flow levels will vary seasonally with precipitation. This creek is a headwater stream, meaning water conditions can change rapidly during and after rainfall events.

Paddlers using this access should be prepared for whitewater conditions and have appropriate skill and equipment for moving water. The creek's gradient and current make it better suited for experienced paddlers in kayaks or canoes rather than larger recreational watercraft. Water levels and hazards should be scouted before paddling, as conditions in smaller mountain streams can vary considerably.