Charleston, West Virginia

Located just outside of Charleston the Kanawha State Forest is a great to experience West Virginia. This hike in particular gives you a taste of the mountains as well as a look into the deep history of coal in the area. This hike allows encounters with wildlife, as well as, blackberries for a goo...

Since this waterfall is less than 200 feet from the parking lot, visiting this waterfall provides a huge reward for minimal physical effort. From the parking lot, cross the bridge over the stream and follow the trail on the right side of the stream/waterfall.  To have the best view of the falls c...

Hawk's Nest State Park is a true gem in the New River Gorge area. It has a roadside overlook that looks out over a horseshoe bend of the New River with views of the Hawk's Nest Dam and of a railroad bridge across the river. From the parking area, simply walk about 200 feet out to the stone overlo...

Park in the boat ramp lot by Hawks Nest Lake. Note that the road to get down to this parking lot is a one lane (two-way traffic) steep gravel road, but it is passable with low-clearance vehicles.  From the parking area take the path towards the Hawks Nest Dam, also labeled the "Fisherman's Trail...

You can start walking on this well-graded rail trail either from Ansted or down by the New River at the Hawk's Nest Nature Center. If you start from the top you will lose a couple hundred feet in elevation and have to walk back up to your car (it is an easy walk though). Bikes are also allowed on...

Canyon Rim Overlook Boardwalk is an out-and-back trail that takes you by a river located near Lansing, West Virginia.

With minimal elevation gain, this 3.2 mile hike can be done in a short amount of time. From the parking lot, take the trail to the right of the bathroom. There will be two trail intersections at 0.4 miles and 0.7 miles, both of which are well marked. Stay straight at both intersections to remain ...

From the Fern Creek Trailhead this is a 2.0 mile out and back hike to Diamond Point. The trail is relatively flat with minimal elevation gain and has a bridge stream crossing. When you arrive at the sign stating "Climber's Access", take a short side trip here to see the views of the gorge. Contin...

Kaymoor was on old West Virginia coal mining town that thrived in the early 1900's until it was abandoned in the 1950's. Along this trail you will see remnants of the old mine entrance, mining cars, a coal processing plant, and coke ovens, among other structures. This trail, although short, is qu...

From Lansing-Edmond road, turn right onto Beauty Mountain Road. Go for 0.1 miles and the road will appear to split into three roads. The main road goes left, but take the middle road here. After another 0.1 miles you will arrive at a gate with a few parking spaces on the left side. Do not block t...

**The road to Nuttallburg is part gravel and only wide enough for one car. Take caution driving along this road-you may have to back up some if you meet another car. Nuttallburg is an old coal mining town that once thrived in the early 1900's, but fell into ruin and then was restored by the Natio...

Located about 30 minutes from Huntington, the Overlook Trail gives hikers an overlooking view within Beech Fork State Park. Maps and brochures can be obtained at the park entrance. Admission is free. Upon entering the park, the trailhead is located in the first lot on your right. This trail is on...

The Beauty Mountain Trail Head is located less than 10 miles form Fayetteville, WV.  To reach the trail head, you will have to travel down some very narrow roads, and I recommend going old school and printing out the directions because cell service in the area is not the best.  Once at the trail ...

Summersville Lake via Orange Oswald is an out-and-back trail near Summersville, West Virginia. Along the route you'll be following closely to the Gauley River and will get views of the both the river and Summersville Lake. This is a good trail if you're looking to stretch your legs and get a quic...

Babcock State Park is one of 36 state parks in West Virginia and is located just Southeast of Fayetteville, WV.  Babcock State Park has over 4,000 acres, making it a great place to camp while you explore the beautiful area.  The campground has 51 campsites for tents and is open from the last week...

There are several rafting companies all which offer pretty much the same half day rafting packages. Each include lunch, a raft, a guide and a trip back to your car when it’s all said and done. The water here is very warm and you can swim, cliff jump, and swim down a few rapids. Enjoy the scenery ...