A Hiker’s Guide to the Best Trails in West Virginia. West Virginia, the Mountain State, is a nature lover's paradise with rugged peaks, dense forests, cascading waterfalls, and panoramic views. Whether you're a novice looking for scenic strolls or an experienced trekker seeking thrills, West Virginia trails offer something for all kinds of adventurers. Here's your complete guide to the best hiking trails in the state.
1. Endless Wall Trail – New River Gorge National Park
- Distance: 2.4 miles (round trip)
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Highlights: Beautiful cliff views of the New River Gorge, serene forest paths, rock climbers on the cliff.
- Why Go: One of the U.S.' top trails, this trail features stunning overlooks with minimal effort.
2. Seneca Rocks Trail – Monongahela National Forest
- Distance: 3.6 miles (round trip)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Vertical rock formation, great views from the top, plenty of climbing history.
- Why Go: West Virginia photo classic and to-do for first timers.
3. Dolly Sods Wilderness – Bear Rocks Trail
- Distance: Variable (loop or out-and-back routes)
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Highlights: Alpine plateaus, wind-blown landscape, bogs, and spectacular sunrises.
- Why Go: Offers out-of-this-world hiking experience unlike any other on the East Coast, especially during the fall.
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4. Cranberry Wilderness – North-South Trail
- Distance: Up to 16 miles
- Difficulty: Difficult
- Highlights: Remote wilderness, river crossings, forest deep trails, backcountry camping.
- Why Go: Best for serious hikers wanting to unplug and be immersed in wild Appalachian beauty.
5. Hawks Nest Rail Trail – Hawks Nest State Park
- Distance: 1.9 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
- Highlights: Old railroad trail along Mill Creek, waterfalls, historic remnants.
- Why Go: Good for families or those seeking a peaceful and gentle walk with returnscapes.
6. Long Point Trail – New River Gorge National Park
- Distance: 3.2 miles (round trip)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: End-of-trail view of the New River Gorge Bridge, wildflowers in spring, forest canopy.
- Why Go: A good-length trail with some of the state's most sought-after postcard shots.
7. Blackwater Falls State Park – Elakala to Lindy Point
- Distance: ~5 miles total (combined trails)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Waterfalls, cliffside canyon views, wooden bridges.
- Why Go: Strands together assorted short trails into a nature-studded scenic loop.
8. Coopers Rock State Forest – Raven Rock Trail
- Distance: 2.5 miles (round trip)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Scenic overlook with breathtaking views of the Cheat River Gorge, striking rock formations.
- Why Go: Less crowded than the primary Coopers Rock Overlook with similarly dramatic views.
9. Otter Creek Wilderness – Moore Run Trail
- Distance: Variable (several trail intersections)
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Highlights: Stream crossings, deep forest solitude, birding.
- Why Go: Perfect for nature lovers who enjoy remote, wildlife-filled environments.
10. Greenbrier River Trail
- Distance: 78 miles (multi-day option)
- Difficulty: Easy (flat terrain)
- Highlights: River scenery, tunnels of old railroad, camping sites, bike-friendly.
- Why Go: One of the longest rail trails in the United States, an excellent choice for hiking and cycling.
Final Tips for Hiking in West Virginia
- Be aware of weather conditions prior to leaving—parts of some areas can become muddy or icy.
- Bring the basics such as water, snacks, maps, and first aid, particularly in outlying areas.
- Don't leave a trace and don't disturb wildlife.
- Wear sturdy, comfortable hiking shoes with a good tread—trails may be slippery or rocky.
A Hiker’s Guide to the Best Trails in West Virginia
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