5 Sunny Hikes for the Whole Family in West Virginia
West Virginia is home to stunning vistas year-round, but spring reveals some of the state’s best features while lush green forests and flowers start coming back to life.
Say goodbye to the winter blues and say hello to the warm, spring weather for a season of endless exploration. Bring the whole family and enjoy a sunny hike on Almost Heaven’s hidden trails.
Sandstone Falls Boardwalk
Summers County, West Virginia
In the heart of the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve in Summers County, Sandstone Falls is the largest waterfall in this national park. Take an easy stroll with your family on the half-mile boardwalk to view the rushing cascades. This area is also known for its wildflowers, so you can count on the spring season to view some photogenic flowers.
Patterson Trail
Carnifex Battlefield State Park
Head toward Summersville in Nicholas County to take on the two-mile Patterson Trail. This loop runs through Carnifex Battlefield State Park and boasts some beautiful overlooks of the Gauley River. Patterson Trail has minimal elevation changes and makes this the perfect, casual nature walk for the whole family. History buffs and hikers alike enjoy exploring more sections of Carnifex Battlefield State Park as the area is rich in Civil War history.
Pinnacle Rock State Park
Bramwell, West Virginia
Pinnacle Rock State Park in Mercer County has several scenic hiking trails. The 0.6-mile out-and-back Pinnacle Rock Overlook Trail near Bluefield is great for a quick hike with a stunning view of the valley ahead of you. For a longer hike, the 2.4-mile out-and-back Beaver Pond Trail is the perfect option. Along your journey here, you will pass through thick woods and cross over a small stream via a wooden bridge. If your family wants to hike somewhere that’s a little more challenging, the two-mile out-and-back Acorn Ridge Trail is your ticket.
Glade Creek Falls
Raleigh County, West Virginia
Raleigh County is full of hidden gems, including Glade Creek Trail near the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. This one-way, 5.6-mile trail follows an abandoned narrow-gauge railroad along Glade Creek and leads to Glade Creek Falls. Enjoy strolling at a moderate grade, and this trail is also popular for hikers searching for swimming holes.
Valley Falls via Rocky and Rhododendron Trail
Valley Falls State Park
If your family is feeling adventurous, trek the 3.9-mile Valley Falls via Rocky and Rhododendron Trail in Marion County. Enjoy Valley Falls State Park from a new perspective and let the trail guide you deep into the quiet woods. You will hike alongside the Tygart Valley River for much of the journey, which is home to Valley Falls. This trail is easy to navigate and makes a great adventure for hikers of all experience levels.
Have some energy to spare? You can burn it off at more fantastic hiking trails and destinations with the help of our brand-new West Virginia Vacation Guide.
Explore More TrailsSoak Up the Spring Sun in #AlmostHeaven
This post was last updated on April 12, 2024