Summer Trails

Summertime is the time to be on the trail. Whether you hike with the rising sun or in the mid-day heat, summertime is the right time to walk, run or bike in Southern West Virginia.

Our trails will take you to the river, over the hills and snaking along the top of the fabulous New River Gorge. Along the way you can enjoy scenery, history, competition and hidden gems on every trail. We’ve listed the top trail events, as well some can’t-miss trails in Southern West Virginia that you’ll have fun exploring.

Events:

Bluestone Walk

Meet a ranger at 10 am or 11:30 am every Saturday at the base of Pipestem State Park’s Tramway.  One mile out and one mild back along the Bluestone National Scenic River. Along the way, enjoy the flora and fauna of the area and discover regional history. No cost for hike but come prepared to pay for tram ride.

Chain Ring Challenge

With 7 miles of excellent single track loops featuring fabulous scenery, technical rocky sections and steep climbs, Little Beaver State Park is the perfect place for the WVMBA-sanctioned Chain Ring Challenge.

Grandview Birding Hike

This fun guided hike starts at the Grandview Visitor Center. Hikers can listen for and bring binoculars to look for thrushes, warblers and various birds that make the New River Gorge National Park home sweet home. July  25 at 9 a.m.

Historic Thurmond Walking Tour

The New River Gorge’s most famous railroad and coal town, Thurmond offers a walk back in time. The old depot has been restored, and the town, while mostly abandoned, is preserved. Join park rangers for stories and fun facts about this town as you walk.

Trails:

Kate’s Mountain Loop

This trail offers almost 8 miles of steep terrain and panoramic views from the top of Kate’s Mountain in The Greenbrier State Forest. For intermediate to advanced hikers, you’ll need your sense of adventure as well as good trail shoes.

Farley Branch Trail

A 2 ¼-mile trail in Camp Creek State Park, this path traverses a rolling ridge as you hike to a small waterfall. This easy stroll is fun for all ages and abilities.

Cliffside Trail

This 3-mile out-and-back hike in Twin Falls Resort State Park offers spectacular views of the valley below the Allegheny Plateau. The moderate terrain includes a rhododendron thicket, rocks and streams.

Endless Wall Trail

Recently voted as the #1 National Park trail to hike in the USA by USA Today, Endless Wall Trail offers moderate terrain with spectacular views of the New river Gorge from the Diamond Point Overlook. This out-and-back hike is just over 3 miles long.

How will you be trekking the trails this summer?