Hiking in West Virginia

Best Hiking Trails in West Virginia

West Virginia is a state that holds some of the best hiking trails in the United States. With its stunning mountain ranges, lush forests, and crystal-clear rivers, it’s no wonder why so many people flock to this beautiful region for an unforgettable outdoor experience. From short day hikes to long backpacking trips, West Virginia has something for everyone looking to explore nature. Here aresome of the best hiking trails in West Virginia:

The Appalachian Trail

The Appalachian Trail is one of the most iconic hiking trails in America and runs through 14 states from Maine all the way down to Georgia. It passes through parts of West Virginia as well and offers hikers breathtaking views as they traverse across ridgelines and valleys alike. This trail can be done either as a thru-hike or sections at a time with plenty of campgrounds along the way for overnight stays if needed.

Dolly Sods Wilderness

Dolly Sods Wilderness Area is located within Monongahela National Forest and boasts over 17,000 acres full of rugged terrain including rocky outcroppings, sweeping vistas, open meadows and dense forestland – making it perfect for both casual hikers looking for a peaceful stroll or more experienced adventurers seeking challenging climbs. Trails range from easy treks up flat ridge side paths or difficult scrambles up steep cliffsides offering unique perspectives on this wild landscape depending on what you’re after!

Seneca Creek Trail

Seneca Creek Trail provides visitors with 13 miles worth of scenic beauty that follows alongside Seneca Creek near Harpers Ferry National Historical Park in Jefferson County WV. The trail features several waterfalls along its course which makes it especially rewarding when combined with its numerous overlooks providing panoramic views across this picturesque landscape – perfect place to take lots photos! Hikers should also keep an eye out for wildlife such as deer grazing nearby or bald eagles soaring overhead during their trek here too!

Spruce Knob Lake Trail

Spruce Knob Lake Trail circles around Spruce Knob Lake -the highest lake east of Mississippi River- offering visitors stunning views while taking them past multiple boulder fields filled with interesting rock formations throughout their hike here (making sure not forget camera!). Although only 2 miles long this looped path does include quite few hills but nothing too strenuous; plus there’s plenty opportunities stop rest by lakeside picnic areas before continuing journey further into mountains beyond!

Endless Wall Trail

Finally Endless Wall Trail offers perhaps one longest stretches single contiguous cliff face entire eastern USA stretching 35 miles through the New River Gorge National River area just south Fayetteville WV. While most routes require careful navigation due sheer drop offs found alongside wall itself special attention must paid any wet weather conditions due potential slippery rocks make path hazardous times So come prepared enjoy amazing spectacle natural stone archways created erosion over centuries while exploring these spectacularly scenic surroundings.