Take on the Mountaineer Mile at These 5 West Virginia State Parks
There are several ways to enjoy the best of Almost Heaven’s natural features, and walking a mile a day here promises that no matter which of the 44 West Virginia State Parks and forests you go to. From quiet trails in the forest to paved paths throughout a beautiful park, West Virginia has a Mountaineer Mile for everyone.
Head to these five West Virginia State Parks this season and take on the Mountaineer Mile. 🥾 🌿
📍Bluestone State Park
Rhododendron Trail
Just upstream from the Bluestone Dam that created the 2,040-acre lake, Bluestone State Park lies at the confluence of the Bluestone and New Rivers. Access the Rhododendron Trail across the road from the Event Building and walk out to the turnaround marker and back. This trail features rhododendron flowers and makes for a relaxing, scenic walk.
📍Hawks Nest State Park
Hawks Nest Rail Trail
Hawks Nest State Park boasts some of the most jaw-dropping views in Almost Heaven. The Hawks Nest Rail Trail begins behind the nature center, follows Mill Creek, and ends near Ansted. Two bridges, waterfalls, and the remains of a coal mine that operated through the 1920s can be seen along this slightly uphill trail, which was once a railway for coal cars. Park below the town of Ansted on Mill Creek Road and walk toward Hawks Nest State Park on this rail trail.
📍Stonewall Resort State Park
Lakeside Nature Trail
Stonewall Resort State Park in Roanoke boasts 1,900 acres of secluded wilderness surrounded by rolling hills. Among the park features is the renowned Stonewall Jackson Lake, with 82 miles of glistening shoreline. Start at the trailhead for the Lakeside Nature Trail on the northern side of Carrier Bay. Walk a half-mile out and then turn around to complete the full mile.
📍Pipestem Resort State Park
Den Tree Trail
Walking on the Den Tree Trail is the perfect way to explore Pipestem Resort State Park more relaxedly. Start the trail at the Splash Park lot across from McKeever Lodge. Begin in the arboretum, hike 0.5 miles to the turnaround marker, then return. Let the fun continue on the canopy zipline tours, Adventure Lake, championship golf, mountain bike excursions and more.
📍Valley Falls State Park
Deer Trail
The natural heartbeat of Fairmont, Valley Falls State Park, is a nature lover’s dream come true. With incredible views from Valley Falls and the Almost Heaven Swing, this slice creates an unmatched setting to start your Mountaineer Mile. Start on the Deer Trail trailhead, walk 0.5 miles to the turnaround point and return for the complete mile.
Looking to challenge yourself in Almost Heaven? You are never short of walking and hiking trails with the help of our FREE West Virginia Vacation Guide!
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This post was last updated on September 17, 2025