The best walks and hikes in Randolph County

The Lion's Head via Red Creek and Big Stonecoal Trail offers a truly unique hiking experience in West Virginia's Dolly Sods Wilderness, taking you through a diverse landscape of open meadows, dense spruce forests, and sub-alpine terrain. You'll follow old logging corridors and navigate rocky sections, culminating in the iconic Lion's Head Rock, which provides sweeping 270-degree views of the Red Creek Valley. This moderate route covers 3.7 miles (5.9 km) with 1095 feet (334 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 1 hour and 50 minutes, making it a rewarding challenge for those seeking dramatic vistas.

Planning your visit requires a bit of preparation; the trail can be muddy, especially after rain, and some stream crossings might be challenging. While trails are marked with cairns, they are not blazed, and cell service is spotty, so bring a map. The fall season is particularly spectacular with vibrant foliage, making it a popular time to hike. Parking is available at the Red Creek Trailhead, but arriving early is advisable, especially during peak times.

The Dolly Sods Wilderness is a high-altitude ecosystem on the East Coast, often described as having sub-arctic characteristics due to its unique flora and wind-carved sandstone formations. Historically, the area was used for logging and military training, and hikers should be aware of the potential for unexploded ordnance. The trail also features the rugged Red Creek with several waterfalls, adding to the area's natural beauty and making it a standout destination in Tucker County.

The Red Creek and Big Stonecoal Loop offers a rugged and rewarding hike through West Virginia's unique Dolly Sods Wilderness. You'll traverse diverse terrain, from flat sections along Red Creek to challenging climbs through rhododendron tunnels, all while enjoying sweeping vistas and a sub-alpine ecosystem. Keep an eye out for numerous waterfalls, including the impressive Big Stonecoal Falls, as you navigate this 13.2-mile (21.2 km) route.

Planning for this difficult hike means being ready for adventure. With 1713 feet (522 metres) of elevation gain and an estimated duration of 6 hours and 7 minutes, you'll need sturdy footwear for rocky sections and multiple stream crossings, which can be knee-deep after rain. Cell service is unreliable, so bring downloaded maps, as the trails are often unblazed and rely on cairns for navigation.

What truly sets this loop apart is its distinctive ecosystem, often compared to more northern latitudes, making it unlike other trails in West Virginia. The area's history as old logging railroad corridors adds character, and it's a popular spot for creek-side camping. Just remember the historical note about WWII bombing training and never touch any suspicious objects you might encounter.

The Mylius Gap via Otter Creek Trail plunges you into the untouched beauty of West Virginia's Monongahela National Forest, offering a truly primitive hiking experience. You'll wander through dense forests of red spruce and hemlock, navigating abundant rhododendron thickets that create natural tunnels. The trail meanders alongside Otter Creek, where you can enjoy picturesque cascades and the constant sound of rushing water, providing a genuine sense of solitude.

This easy 4.1-mile (6.6 km) route, with a gentle 287 feet (88 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 1 hour and 46 minutes to complete. However, be prepared for potentially muddy and wet sections, especially after rain, and challenging creek crossings. Since trails in this wilderness are not signed, strong navigation skills are crucial, and proper footwear is a must for the rugged terrain.

The Otter Creek Wilderness is renowned for its remote feel and rich natural features, including historical old railroad grades and a significant black bear population. This trail is perfect for those seeking a less-maintained environment and a chance to immerse themselves in nature, away from crowded paths. It's a fantastic option for an easy, yet adventurous, day out.

Hike the moderate 8.7-mile Red Creek and Rocky Point Trail Loop in Dolly Sods Wilderness, featuring waterfalls, vistas, and Lion's Head Rock

Hike the 10.2-mile Little Stonecoal, Lion's Head, and Red Creek Loop in Dolly Sods, featuring waterfalls, rocky terrain, and panoramic views

Hike the moderate 4.8-mile Rohrbaugh Trail in Dolly Sods Wilderness for rugged terrain and spectacular views from Rohrbaugh Cliffs.

Hike the moderate 7.0-mile Big and Little Stonecoal Loop in Dolly Sods Wilderness, featuring waterfalls and diverse landscapes.

Hike the moderate 6.7-mile Rohrbaugh and Wildlife Trail Loop in Dolly Sods Wilderness, featuring scenic cliffs and unique ecosystems.