Ben's Run

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 good hiking snack.  The trail begins at the swimming pool and group camping area where hikers will find...

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 cross the stream (there are plenty of big rocks to do so).  Early morning is optimal for long exposur...

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 quick workout in. 

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 this trail. It is easy to follow this trail, and you will cross two old train bridges, and old mill...

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 overlook.Although gorgeous at any time of day, this spot is perfectly oriented for sunrises (especially in...

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" on the state park maps. This flat trail skirts the lake's shoreline, and you will have to maneuver...