Brandywine, West Virginia

A free entrance and parking area for about a half dozen cars off Freeland Road features this quick adventure for all ages. The Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge and Freeland Boardwalk offers a variety of wildlife and environments like Ponds, Wetlands, Forests, and a natural limestone spring....

Kaylor's Knob Trail in Massanutten, Virginia is a moderately challenging hiking trail that spans approximately 3.56 miles. The trail is marked by a steady incline, making it a suitable choice for intermediate hikers. The trailhead is easily accessible, located near the Massanutten Resort. The tr...

From January to April, the forest roads that provide vehicle access to the Dolly Sods Wilderness in West Virginia are closed. If you're up for a cold weather adventure, park your car (in accordance with the signage and without blocking the road) and hike up the Forest Road 75 near Davis, WV, to B...

This particular hike is great as there are multiple camping sites, both established and backcountry, and views for miles around almost every bend. Still not convinced? This high-altitude plateau has characteristics typically found in Canadian landscapes. so you can travel north without leaving y...

Arguably one of the most beautiful hiking areas on the United States' east coast, the Dolly Sods Wilderness inarguably has the most unique trailhead warning sign: Watch out for unexploded ordinance in the area. (The U.S. Army used the area for artillery and mortar training during WWII.) Don't fre...

Starting on Bear Rocks Trail, hike down to the Red Creek. Sometimes water levels can be high, but most of the time you can cross the creek without getting any deeper than your knees. Link up with the Raven Ridge Trail and head south. Enjoy the views through this section, as it's a great place to ...

What used to be an artillery testing site during WWII, Dolly Sods is a great place for backpackers of almost any expertise. Water is easily found throughout the wilderness area and while 21 miles might feel like a lot, it is very manageable over the course of 3 days.  Attached (at the bottom) is...

There are two parking spots for this trail. Park at the lower lot if the gate is closed, if the gate is open, continue up the road for another mile until you reach another closed gate. Park here. If the gate is closed you will need to hike a mile up the road to get to the trail head.From the seco...

Bird Knob trail and aptly-named Emerald Pond are a not-so-well-kept secret worth sharing. Located just two hours away from Washington DC, this hike has everything: bouldering, views, and the perfect swimming hole.  Even the drive to reach the hike is scenic and enjoyable with mountain views and f...

This hidden gem is located near Lindy Point and Blackwater Falls State Park.  Unlike Lindy Point, which is very popular, hikers are usually able to enjoy the views from Table Rock all by themselves.  The Table Rock trail head is located off of Canaan Loop Rd.  I highly recommend driving to the tr...

Starting at the Blackwater Falls Lodge, head to the left side of the parking lot, where a trailhead becomes visible. Follow the clearly marked trail down until you reach a bridge which goes over the top of the falls. After the bridge, look for paths to allow you to get to the river level and the ...

If you go to Blackwater Falls State Park for the falls, stay for the overlooks.  This one, the most popular in the park, overlooks Blackwater Canyon from 3,000 feet above.  Although the parking area at the trailhead is small with room for only 4-5 cars, you can also park along the road or at the ...

Blackwater Falls State Park is one of 36 state parks in West Virginia and is located just north of the Canaan Valley less than two miles from Davis, WV.  Blackwater Falls State Park has over 2,000 acres, making it a great place to camp while you explore the beautiful area.  The campground has 65 ...

Big Schloss via Wolf Gap Trail is an out-and-back trail that takes you by a river located near Lost City, West Virginia.

Big Schloss (the German word for “palace”) is a popular hike in the George Washington National Forest.  The trailhead is conveniently located at the Wolf Gap Campground.  To begin, follow the path behind the restrooms at the parking lot.  Cross the paved road where you will find a trail map with ...

Park for free at Wolf Gap Campground and cross the road where you will pass some picnic tables and campsites.  Follow the signs to the yellow-blazed Tibbet Knob trail.  In half a mile, there is a little path to a summit on your left where you can catch a glimpse of Mill Mountain and Big Schloss. ...