Mild Adventures and Finding Friends in Southern WV
West Virginia is a place known for high adventure. From rock climbing to rafting, there are endless thrills around every corner. But not everyone is looking for an adrenaline rush. Some are looking for a nice walk that’s perhaps not too long or too steep. They might be looking to slow down in a hectic world and maybe make a new friend while doing so.
Easy Strolls and Leisure Hikes
Southern West Virginia developed around the coal mining and railroad industries. Although it’s known as the Mountain State, trains transporting coal from West Virginia to America’s major cities required flat, smooth lines to safely carry their cargo. So, train companies like Chesapeake and Ohio built rail lines along rivers, into hillsides, and atop mountain plateaus.
The days of coal mining within the boundaries of the New River Gorge are long gone. Most of the rail lines from the gorge’s booming coal industry converted easily to hiking trails. Some of these trails are long enough to be full-day treks, but they offer enough beauty throughout that you will still feel satisfied turning around when you feel comfortable. Here are a few trails that lack significant inclines:
Within the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve:
Brookside Loop – This half-mile loop is located at Camp Brookside. The loop partially runs along the New River. If you’re looking for a quiet trail, this is a great option to avoid crowds. It is a little bit harder to find. Follow the signs for Camp Brookside on Route. 20 and drive on the gravel path that briefly goes alongside the train tracks. The trailhead is just past the fence for the campground.
Canyon Rim Boardwalk – Located just outside the Canyon Rim Visitor Center, the first section of the Canyon Rim Boardwalk is wheelchair accessible. It offers panoramic views of the New River Gorge Bridge and the gorge.
Glade Creek Trail to Glade Creek Falls – starting from the parking lot by the Glade Creek Campground, hike 1 mile along Glade Creek.
Rend Trail – The forested trail is 3.4 miles long, featuring scenic viewpoints along the way.
Sandstone Falls Boardwalk – The Sandstone Falls Boardwalk is wheelchair accessible. The quarter-mile boardwalk leads to the largest waterfall on the New River, Sandstone Falls, which spans 1500 feet.
Southside Trail – The Southside Trail runs along the New River and passes through abandoned mining towns like Rush Run, Red Ash, and Brooklyn. The trail is 7 miles long, so don’t feel obligated to complete it all in one go.
State Parks:
Hawks Nest Rail Trail– This 2-mile gravel trail is located within Hawks Nest State Park and begins behind the nature center. It flows alongside Mill Creek past waterfalls and the remains of a coal mine. It ends near the town of Ansted.
Dogwood Trail at Pipestem Resort State Park – This forested walk is a little over half a mile loop that begins and ends at the Nature Center.
Walk from Blue Jay Campground to Campbell Falls at Camp Creek State Park – Park at or near Blue Jay Campground and walk along the flat road to Campbell Falls.
Devil’s Creek Trail at Moncove Lake State Park – This out-and-back path along Devil’s Creek begins at the lower campground. If you’re looking for an additional challenge, follow one of the two intersecting trails: Diamond Hollow or Roxalia Springs.
Twin Oaks Trail at Twin Falls Resort State Park – This short and sweet trek is only a third of a mile long. The WV State Park website calls it “a gentle walk through the woods.”
Greenbrier River Trail – This trail is 78 miles long, but don’t worry, you can go as far as you feel comfortable. The trail features scenic views and passes through small towns.
Local Parks:
White Oak Rail Trail – This paved path is 8 miles long, offering plenty of opportunities to stop and rest. Parts are forested, and other parts run through downtown Oak Hill. Two points of interest are the White Oak Rail Depot, which is sometimes open as a mercantile, and the portion that is a story trail with a children’s book from the local library.
Clear Fork Rail Trail – Located on the outskirts of Raleigh County, this secluded route is 5 miles long with a waterfall that is featured on the West Virginia Waterfall Trail.
Places Where You Can Do Absolutely Nothing
There is a sweetness in doing nothing. Sometimes there is a need to enjoy the senses of the natural world around you. From the sweet smell of flowers, feeling a warm breeze on your skin, hearing birds call from the trees, and watching butterflies flutter or fish swim in streams. Here is where you can go to slow down and take in every sense at low or little cost.
Summersville Lake
Battle Run Beach on Summersville Lake is a great spot to set up a towel and relax in the sun. If you’re feeling toasty, enjoy the soothing waters of Summersville Lake. A day pass is $5 per car.
Lake Stephens
Located just outside of Beckley, Lake Stephens is a fabulous spot to unwind. Enjoy the beach for just $5 or explore the vicinity’s trails and overlook for free.
Moncove Lake State Park
This secluded lake offers serenity to those seeking it. Sit on a park bench along the shore or enjoy a day at the pool.
Babcock State Park
Known as one of the most scenic spots in West Virginia, Babcock State Park is home to the iconic grist mill and cascading falls. This is the perfect forested spot to just sit and enjoy the sounds of nature.
Carnifex Ferry Battlefield State Park
Carnifex Ferry Battlefield State Park is the site of the Civil War battle that began the push of Confederate forces out of West Virginia. It also features breathtaking views of the Gauley River. A few paces from the main parking area is a shaded overlook where visitors can enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. In the fall, you can watch rafters go down the Gauley River.
Kanawha Falls
Flowing at the intersection of the New and Gauley Rivers, Kanawha Falls are short cascades at the start of the Kanawha River. The short cascades are easily accessible from Route 60 for casual viewing. It’s also an excellent spot for kayaking.
Piney Creek Preserve
Beckley’s best secret is the Piney Creek Preserve. Hidden in the heart of the city, Piney Creek Preserve features two waterfalls and offers several park benches for relaxation and enjoying the views.
Finding Friends
While some like the solitude and quiet of the outdoors, others like to share their outdoor experiences. If you’re traveling alone, finding friends can be a bit daunting, but there are resources to help you.
Active Southern West Virginia
Active Southern West Virginia offers free guided beginner outdoor programs such as hiking, swimming, rock climbing and paddle boarding. Participants simply need to sign a waiver. Check out their calendar to see what outing suits you.
Water Stone Outdoors
Water Stone Outdoors has been a staple of the outdoor community within the New River Gorge region for years. Now, they partner with Active Southern West Virginia for their free outdoor programs. The business also started a “Climbing Partner Finder” wall where people can post notes to connect with other rock climbers. They also host a “Top-Out Taproom” series every other Thursday, inviting people to come together, network, and learn about organizations and the work being done within the New River Gorge Region.
