Little Beaver State Park - Hiking

Review

Intro

Hiking at Little Beaver is a unique experience in Southern West Virginia. The creeks and tributaries near the park have created a landscape carved by centuries of erosion, and the park is so full of dense vegetation that you will feel miles away from civilization. With 18 trails totaling nearly 20 miles, you can spend all day exploring here.

What Makes It Great

Depending on what kind of hike you are looking for, it’s easy to spend anywhere from a half hour to a full day at Little Beaver. While nearly every trail is singletrack with rocks and exposed roots, the trails are accessible to every skill level of hiker.

The Laurel Creek Trail is the longest trail in the park at 2.6 miles, and will take you along rocky singletrack through a large area of the park, giving you the opportunity to see several different types of scenery. You begin by passing through a tunnel of overhanging rhododendrons before heading up a ridge and crossing over multiple creek beds that only flow after a heavy rain. Continue along a winding forest path as you skirt the boundaries of the park and arrive at a marsh, where you will have to cross a floating bridge. Look for deer! They’re common in this area. You will continue along the edge of a ridge through rock gardens and root beds before you end up near a meadow with a small pond full of cattails.

For a path with fewer obstacles, try the half-mile Black Bear Run trail that leads you directly along the bank of Beaver Creek. This route has several creek crossings over river rocks and striking views of the creek.

For a strenuous hike, try the Creek Bed trail. This short but steep .5-mile trail traverses a narrow, rugged creek bed that is full of jutting rocks and fallen trees as you climb directly up a ridge. The Drop Off trail is another short, strenuous trail (.4 mile) that involves scrambling over large boulders.

Who is Going to Love It

Hikers of all skill levels who are looking for adventure will love Little Beaver. The groves of rhododendrons here are so thick that you will feel miles away from civilization. The many streams provide opportunities to take in beautiful views, spot local wildlife, and give your four-legged friend a chance to cool off on a brutal summer day. Most paths here are narrow singletrack with rocks and roots; however, every trail is accessible to any level of hiker, though some are certainly more strenuous than others.

Directions, Parking, & Regulations

One of the greatest advantages of Little Beaver is its easy accessibility. To reach the park, take exit 129A off I-64 and turn left. The entrance will be just 2 miles ahead on your left. There is plenty of parking throughout the park.