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Parsons, West Virginia

Looking for the best backpacking in Parsons? We've got you covered with the top trails, trips, hiking, backpacking, camping and more around Parsons. The detailed guides, photos, and reviews are all submitted by the Outbound community.

Top Backpacking Spots in and near Parsons

  • Davis, West Virginia

    Dolly Sods Wilderness North Loop via Rocky Ridge Trail

    5.0
    12.78 mi / 1378 ft gain
    The hike begins at the "Dolly Sods Trailhead Parking" location easily found on Google Maps. The lot is big enough for about 6-8 vehicles. Begin walking at the end of the gravel parking lot/road for about 0.5 miles until you enter the Dolly Sods Wilderness Area in a small grassy field where sever...
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  • Maysville, West Virginia

    Dolly Sods North Loop via Bear Rocks

    5.0
    11.69 mi / 1171 ft gain
    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...
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  • Davis, West Virginia

    Bear Rocks Loop

    4.7
    10.54 mi / 1293 ft gain
    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...
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  • Davis, West Virginia

    Bear Rocks and Beaver Dam Loop

    6.36 mi / 699 ft gain
    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 ...
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  • Maysville, West Virginia

    Lions Head Loop

    5.0
    20.35 mi / 2195 ft gain
    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...
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  • Elkins, West Virginia

    Hike to High Falls in Monongahela National Forest

    5.0
    8.2 mi / 1440 ft gain
    Though this beautiful hike is a serious workout, it's actually quite easy to follow. It's also listed on Google Maps - I'd highly recommend downloading the map offline just in case something happens. Starting at the trailhead (park at a pull-off along the gravel road just a few hundred feet befor...
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  • Cabins, West Virginia

    Backpack the North Fork Mountain Trail & Chimney Top

    5.0
    24.7 mi
    One of my favorite hikes in West Virginia, since the whole ridge is full of views.  Backpacking the North Fork Mountain Trail is about 24.7 miles in total and a challenging hike but with relentless views. In my opinion, the best West Virginia has to offer. Summertime backpacking the whole the NFM...
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