From its rolling hills to the beautiful mountain trails, West Virginia is a state full of diverse and majestic landscapes. In recent years it’s become a popular destination for outdoor adventurers from all over the country, who come seeking an escape from their daily lives and the chance to explore some of the best mountains in America. Whether you’re looking for an easy stroll or a more rugged challenge, there are plenty of options available – with something that should fit everyone’s needs!
In this blog post, we’ll be exploring 15 of West Virginia’s most stunning mountain ranges. Read on to find out which one might provide you with your next unforgettable journey into nature!
Table of Contents
The Best Mountain Trails in West Virginia
New River Gorge National Park & Preserve
- Address: 162 Visitor Center Rd, Lansing, WV 25862, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.8 (1858)
- Phone: +1 304-574-2115
- Website: Link
- Opening hours:
Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PMTuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PMWednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PMThursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PMFriday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PMSaturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PMSunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
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Top 15 Scenic Mountains in West Virginia
Long Point Trailhead
- Address: Parking lot, County Rte 9-8, Fayetteville, WV 25840, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.8 (644)
- Website: Link
- Reviews:
The view at the end is absolutely gorgeous, probably one of my favorite views of the bridge aside from being on a raft in the New River. The trail itself is not that interesting however, so the 4 stars is simply for the view at the end! There is a section where you walk through thick rhododendrons; that was pretty neat… for a northerner anyway. I believe it’s a 3 – 3.5 mile out and back. More popular trail so recommend going in the off hours.By Angela Werling (5 months ago)Enjoyed our hike on this trail. The end is tricky…lots of roots, the path narrows and is downhill and then it opens up to the end, which is absolutely stunning but hard to manage with a young, exuberant coonhound. We took turns holding our dog and walking towards the end without him. He didn’t understand the edge and that after the edge, it just drops off. Stunning end with the view of the bridge, a waterfall and surrounding mountains. The trail is a nice gentle walk through the woods. I recommend it for those who can hike an easy trail, except for the end, where it is more difficult to navigate if you have older knees and hips. The park is amazing and dog friendly on the trails. We will be back!By Anne Knight (2 weeks ago)Probably my favorite trail in New River Gorge National Park. The trail is easy/ moderate, dog friendly and easily doable. Takes around 1.5- 2 hours depending on how long you stay at the top. Plenty of parking space.
It was a bit muddy due to the rain but manageable. Offers great views of the New River Gorge Bridge and makes it perfect place to click pictures with bridge in the background. I highly recommend hiking this trail if you’re visiting New River Gorge National Park.
IG: journey_man16
By Anirudh Pillai (6 months ago)This is a great Sunday after church hike. It was an easy trail all the way until you get, I would say, about .2 miles from the overlook. Then it turns a little more difficult due to rocks and rhododendren roots in the trail. I would definitely recommend this hike if you are in the area visiting the New River Gorge Bridge. It has an amazing view of the bridge but be careful around the edge of the overlook. I also believe that the lighting for pictures may be better before noon if you are a photographer you may keep this in mind.By Kurt Gillispie (7 months ago)This hiking trail is not a beginner trail, but it’s not too bad. There is a bit of descending and uphill parts near the end as well as the trail narrows closer to the end. There are also a few areas that were muddy, they had paths around those areas (they may have been muddy due to rains earlier that day).But once you get to the end the views are spectacular. You can see a good distance down the gorge and a beautiful view of the bridge.
If you go later in the day make sure you give yourself enough time to get back before dark, or carry a good flashlight with you. It gets really dark on the path and you can get lost pretty quickly. Not to mention the tree roots and other obstacles that could cause you to trip in the dark.
By Matthew K (2 months ago)
Seneca Rocks Trailhead
- Address: Seneca Rocks, WV 26884, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.8 (414)
- Opening hours:
Monday: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PMTuesday: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PMWednesday: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PMThursday: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PMFriday: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PMSaturday: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PMSunday: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Reviews:
First thing first, your cellphones don’t work here, so there is zero reception. Huge parking lot with multiple overflow parking here and another huge parking lot at visitor center.
Trail is amidst huge trees, so completely under shade.
Trail is flat, although there are sections with steep incline.
It took us 45 minutes to reach to the top.
Real hike starts after you pass the warning sign at the top. It’s 30ft ascent and you get your panoramic views
One of the easiest hikes, great for beginners.By R Manni (5 months ago)This is the best hiking trip I have ever been on. It was absolutely beautiful. It is a hard and strenuous hike. I would bring water, and granola bars. If you are a beginner hiker you can do this too, because there are a lot of benches for resting. A lot of benches. The overlook that you reach is absolutely beautiful… it was just incredibly impressive.By Kyah Patterson (a month ago)Seneca rocks are a sight rarely seen east of the rockies. They are much bigger standing at the base then you would imagine. Go in the fall for an extra special view. You can either view from the picnic area or hike the trail to get up closer. There are bathrooms and a discovery center both near by.By alex monsrud (2 months ago)Must do hike to the summit to see the beautiful ridges up top. It’s a moderate hike, but the views are worth it. Both dog and kid friendly, but would recommend extra care for kids. Also note that this route is high traffic route so expect tons of people. But definitely a must visit and do hike if you are prepared and moderately fit.By Varghese Philip (3 months ago)Great hike with an even greater view. If you are not in the best shape, go slow. We took a picture of the trail at the bottom and then we could look to see how much farther to the top. On the way down several people asked “How much farther?” And we were able to show them on the photo how close they were.By Angel Harwick (2 months ago)
Hatfield-McCoy Trails
- Address: 180 Appalachian Outpost Trail, Man, WV 25635, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.7 (262)
- Phone: +1 304-752-3255
- Website: Link
- Reviews:
Real nice trails! Both easy and more difficult trails are easy enough for all riders! Some cool spots along the trails! Check out my other reviews for great lodging and eating recommendations while in the area!By Jon Furtado (5 months ago)Who knew WV could both beautiful and hospitable? I grew up parts of my childhood roaming these mountains mostly oblivious to the deep historical roots of the area. Now thanks to local leaders and the citizens of Mingo County the trails are an amazing way to enjoy this scenic and culturally rich part of America.
We stayed in a new cabin called Hokie Hideout in Goat Village that was amazing. The decor was reminiscent of old times but the place was also loaded with modern luxury. Big TV, ice maker, all the appliances, sleeping for 8 or 9 easily with remote controls for climate and lights. The trail head is a few hundred yards from the front porch.
It is awesome to see this development in a place commonly only credited for coal production. These trails and accommodations are proof of how mountain culture can be a centerpiece for building an economy that features tourism in addition to coal and manufacturing.
By Dave Diamond (7 months ago)It’s hard to rate it completely when I’ve only been there one time, but I had a great time!!! I got to ride/drive a SxS on Pocahontas green and blue trails, and started on a black trail until I got to a rock wall, then they didn’t trust me to make it up it. I had faith in myself and would’ve tried had it been my ride. Also got to ride/drive on Buffalo Mountain. Absolutely beautiful scenery!!! I couldn’t wait to swing on that swing!MY ONLY COMPLAINT WAS: I was very disappointed in the trash we encountered. That is and always has been a big pet peeve of mine. 😠👎 My nephew had a netted trash bag that attached to his SxS. How hard is it to take your trash with you??? Be a better person and keep the scenery clean and beautiful people. If I ever get to go again, I’m taking something to pick up trash with, in order to make the pit stop areas look nicer, and for our environment. Maybe, whoever reads this, could prepare ahead of time to do the same. Thank you!!! 😊👍
By Melissa Byers (4 months ago)Coming in to the trails at this Trailhead lead to more Single Track Trails ! we had a great time not as may jeep roads to get to the Kind of trails us dirt bikers live for Pictured is our group at the peak of 199 !! The best there is at this place!!By Keith Finnerty (7 months ago)New rider and absolutely loving the hundreds of miles of trails within less than an hour of our hotel.By AccuSpect Inspections (5 months ago)
Wolf Gap Recreation Area
- Address: Wardensville, WV 26851, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.7 (223)
- Phone: +1 540-984-4101
- Website: Link
- Opening hours:
Monday: Open 24 hoursTuesday: Open 24 hoursWednesday: Open 24 hoursThursday: Open 24 hoursFriday: Open 24 hoursSaturday: Open 24 hoursSunday: Open 24 hours
- Reviews:
Wolf Gap Recreation Area is situated on the Virginia and West Virginia line and has access to excellent trails and camp grounds. The location has adequate parking (though extra spillover can park along the driveway not the main road turning into the red area), well marked and maintained trails, and a coveted place to use the bathroom (it is not a wash area).
There are a small number of first come, first serve tent pads w parking space and fire pit. There is an index card and post system to claim a spot.
Dogs are allowed on the trails. The trails are rated moderate. Some parks are definitely harder than others but we managed without hiking boots. Kids do well on these hiking trails. You cannot get cell reception up there so download your maps offline if needed.
All in all, a great hiking location for the family! We intend to come back and camp next time.
By Cristin Harber (4 months ago)Big Schloss hike parking is here and the entrance to the trail is at the end of the campsites. Campsites are first come first serve but there are usually available spots even on weekends. There’s a bathroom and the campsites are pretty well maintained. One of my favorite hikes in the area!!By Emiliya Shulgan (2 months ago)Wolf Gap really came through for us, as a good place for a camp and a walk at the start of our WV road trip. Good walk up Tibbet’s Knob, with just a couple if moments of gentle scrambling up the boulders before the overlook. We saw a snake, enjoying a morning sunbathe!By Jack Coward (5 months ago)The trail is moderate and rocky for ~4.4 miles round-trip. It is quite trail with stunning view on top. I went there to see sunset in 32 degree F temperature. Recommend for Fall, I bet it will be a stunning view. Definitely come back again.By Pornpimon M. (12 months ago)Straddling the VA/WV border, Wolf Gap provides 9(?) first-come, first-served campsites as well as direct access to both the Big Schloss & Tibbet Knob trails. Big Schloss in particular boasts some of the best views in the whole area. Make sure to arrive early to claim a spot, and to wear sturdy shoes on the trail! Lots of loose rocks and steep inclines in some sections. Also be sure to keep the site beautiful and pack out all trash!By JR Franks (a year ago)
High Knob Trailhead
- Address: US-33, Brandywine, WV 26802, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.8 (158)
North Fork Trail Trailhead
- Address: Cabins, WV 26855, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.9 (58)
Backbone Mountain Trailhead
- Address: 2428 Seneca Trail, Eglon, WV 26716, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.6 (39)
Meeks Mountain Trails
- Address: Hurricane, WV 25526, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.8 (33)
Huckleberry Trail
- Address: Riverton, WV 26814, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.6 (28)
Greenbrier River Trail
- Address: Greenbrier River Trail, Frankford, WV 24938, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.5 (24)
Table Rock Trail Head
- Address: Canaan Loop Rd, Parsons, WV 26287, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.6 (21)
Maryland’s Highest Point
- Address: Maryland High Point Trail, Eglon, WV 26716, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.6 (15)
High Rocks Trail
- Address: WV-150 #1-800-932-4600, Hillsboro, WV 24946, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.8 (10)
Chimney Rock
- Address: XPFV+6Q, Cabins, WV 26855, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.8 (5)
Stone Camp Run Trail
- Address: County Rte 10, Bowden, WV 26254, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 5 (1)
Thank you for reading! If you have any additional information on the best scenic mountains in West Virginia, please leave a comment above. We would love to hear from you!
As a national park enthusiast, I realize not all national parks can be Yosemite or Yellowstone… New River George is certainly on the less grand side of things. The large highway bridge is an impressive engineering accomplishment, but a watching highway traffic from inside the national park seemed to cheapen it for me. I’m not sure who decided this deserves to be a national park, but I know of many more deserving state parks. The coolest part of this park to me was Sandstone Falls. The wooden boardwalk around Sandstone Falls was very nicely done. Would I go back, no – not unless I was driving by on my way somewhere else and needed a picnic spot. However I got my national park stamp for the collection
We have never been to New River Gorge and were so excited to see what kind of scenic hikes they have for us and our dogs. We found a few moderate hikes, but one that lead to a beautiful view of the bridge and rapids below! It was lovely and well worth it. We will most definitely be back. We love it here!
Some may not agree with the “National Park” status, but it was already a National River and Preserve. There is more to the park than just the bridge, however the bridge is a beautiful focal point. I did the Bridge Walk tour and it was amazing! We also enjoyed the Fayetteville Station Road with audio tour, Sandstone Falls/Visitors Center. White Water Rafting looked awesome, but we didn’t have time to do that on this trip. Enjoy the park for the beauty of nature and the gorge in the East and you will have a good trip.
This was one of the best places i have been to. The bridge views are great from the river side, Long point trail and other places we can stop at. They have river rafting at the river under the bridge. The bridge view from long point trail in the morning on a foggy day was like heaven really. It was such a wonderful experience. They have nice views from the dect at the visitor center as well.
Absolutely amazing views. It was cold and snowy but beautiful! Only had time for 1 hike. Hiked Longs Trail to see the bridge. Took our coonhound with us. He loved the walk and sniffs through the wooded path leading up to the clearing and area where you can walk out and see the entire bridge! Stunning! Not too many people on the trail and the ones we passed were awesome and friendly. Recommend this trail but the last part is narrow and full of roots and mud and downhill. May be difficult if you suffer with bad knees or hips. Definitely worth the view!