Hiking in West Virginia, WV
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About West Virginia Hiking
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Pinnacle Rock State Park is perfect for leisurely hikers who love scenic overlooks and stunning panoramas without the technical commitment or endurance you’d need for longer, more challenging trails.
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With everything from creeks and cliffs to rock formations and boulders, West Virginia’s largest state forest has a very diverse trail system that hikers of all levels will love to explore.
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There are precious few hiking trails within the Gauley River National Recreation Area. There is one, however, that manages to be long and utterly engaging.
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One of the best-kept secrets of the New River Gorge, the strenuous Big Branch Trail rewards adventurous hikers with blooming wildflowers, countless waterfalls, and impressive views of the New River.
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For hikers who want a wide variety of terrains and views in a single jaunt, it’s tough to beat Babcock State Park.
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Nowhere else in America can you find as much world-class adventure as here— and the hiking is no different.
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Nature lovers, birdwatchers, and history buffs alike love Watters Smith State Memorial Park’s short, easy trails that give a glimpse into West Virginian history.
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Beech Fork State Park is easy to access and has tons of amenities. It’s a popular weekend getaway for locals.
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Valley Falls State Park in Fairmont, WV, is perfect for families, beginner hikers, and experienced hikers.
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Little Beaver State Park has 19.5 miles of trails for hikers of all levels. The many creeks throughout the park provide stunning scenery and opportunities for spotting wildlife.
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A hiker’s paradise, Spruce Knob has amazing views and is home to one of the 5 “best backpacking routes in the mid-Atlantic,” according to Hiking Upward.
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The crown jewel of West Virginia’s park system, Pipestem Resort State Park offers hikers spectacular scenery and plenty of chances to spot wildlife.
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One of 22 islands in the Ohio River Islands National Wildlife Refuge Middle Island has more than 3 miles of easy trails for visitors to explore. Great for families.
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This 20,698-acre natural bowl formed by Shavers and McGowan mountains has several beautiful backcountry opportunities for hikers who are looking for a long-distance trails, wildlife, and remote treks.
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Choose your own adventure on this 184.5-mile towpath from DC to Maryland. Perfect for hikers looking for a quick stroll after work, a really long hike, or just one full of history.
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Nestled in the Allegheny Mountains, the steep and challenging North Fork Mountain Trail is one of the most scenic in West Virginia.
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Looking for a workout or a quiet stroll? This historic spot with stunning views has hikes that are short, long, easy, difficult, and everything in between.
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The Blackwater River Trail is a secluded, but easily accessible trail that follows the Blackwater River through the wetlands of Canaan Valley Resort State Park.
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The Kanawha State Forest, one of Charleston’s largest parks just miles from the center of the city, has more than 25 miles of hiking trails through scenic wooded areas.
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Cacapon Resort State Park has more than 20 miles of hiking trails with a variety of terrains and difficulties, which makes it a wonderful getaway for families looking for a fun weekend in the outdoors.
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Deer Run Trail is a 1.5-mile easy trail that meanders along boardwalks and through an observation area ideal for wildlife viewing.
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If you are looking for a great workout paired with magnificent scenery, then Greenbrier State Forest is the perfect spot.
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One of West Virginia's premier hiking areas, Cranberry Glades will amaze beginner and experienced hikers with its wild beauty and serene nature.
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Voted 1 of the top 10 hiking trails in the U.S. by Backpacker Magazine, the 78-mile Greenbrier River Trail is a well-maintained trek into the history and beauty of West Virginia.
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While small, this 277-acre refuge has 5 miles of great trails that are perfect for that lunchtime hike or leisurely family stroll on the weekend.
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