The best walks and hikes in Raleigh County
4.8
(23)
378
hikers
16
hikes
Hikes in Raleigh County explore the landscape of the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve and other regional parks. The area is characterized by deep river gorges, dense hardwood forests, and prominent rock walls with overhanging cliffs. Trails range from accessible boardwalks near waterfalls to more challenging routes along the river and through state parks like Little Beaver State Park.
Best hiking trails in Raleigh County
- The most popular hiking route is Grandview Rim & Castle Rock Trail — New River Gorge National Park & Preserve, a 3.5 mile (5.6 km) trail that takes around 1 hour 35 minutes to complete. This route follows the gorge rim and passes along massive rock walls.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Glade Creek Trail — New River Gorge National Park & Preserve, a difficult 13.2 mile (21.2 km) path. The trail follows an old railroad grade alongside Glade Creek.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Island Loop Trail to Sandstone Falls — New River Gorge National Park & Preserve, a 0.9 mile (1.5 km) trail leading through a series of islands, often completed in about 25 minutes.
- Hiking in Raleigh County is defined by its deep river gorges, dense forests, and significant rock formations. The trail network offers options for different ability levels, from easy boardwalks to difficult riverside hikes.
- The routes in Raleigh County are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from more than 10 reviews. More than 180 hikers have used komoot to explore Raleigh County's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
4.8
(6)
99
hikers
6.63km
02:12
80m
140m
Embark on the Grandview Rim Trail for a moderate hike offering impressive views of the New River Gorge, which winds 1,400 feet below. As you hike this 4.1-mile (6.6 km) route, you will pass through a mature mixed forest, gaining 247 feet (75 metres) in elevation. The trail takes approximately 2 hours and 12 minutes to complete, providing ample time to enjoy the scenery. You will discover multiple viewpoints along the way, including the iconic Turkey Spur Overlook, which presents sweeping panoramas of the river. In late spring, the path transforms into tunnels of blooming rhododendron and mountain laurel, adding vibrant color to your journey.
The trail conveniently begins at the Grandview visitor area, offering easy access for your hike. From there, you can find paved paths leading to the Main Overlook. Be aware that the route can experience moderate crowding, particularly during peak seasons, so consider an early start for a quieter experience. If you plan to bring your furry companion, pets are welcome on the trail, provided they are kept on a 6-foot leash.
This route offers a rewarding outdoor experience within the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, showcasing the dramatic landscape of the region. The trail's position along the rim provides a unique perspective of the gorge's depth and natural beauty. It stands out as a prime example of the accessible yet scenic hiking opportunities available in this protected area. You will find it to be a memorable way to connect with the natural environment of West Virginia.
4.8
(6)
99
hikers
6.63km
02:12
80m
140m
Embark on the Grandview Rim Trail, a moderate hike that offers continuous panoramic views of the New River Gorge. As you traverse this 4.1 miles (6.6 km) route, you'll gain 247 feet (75 metres) in elevation, a journey that typically takes around 2 hours and 12 minutes. The path winds through a mature mixed forest, providing shade and a chance to see vibrant rhododendron blooms in late spring or July. You'll find yourself looking down 1,400 feet to the New River below, especially from points like the Turkey Spur Overlook, where the river forms a dramatic horseshoe bend. The experience is one of constant scenic reward, blending forest tranquility with expansive vistas.
When planning your hike on the Grandview Rim Trail, consider starting in the early mornings or late afternoons. This timing often provides the best light for photography and helps you avoid larger crowds, enhancing your peaceful experience. Be sure to wear sturdy footwear, as the trail features some elevation changes and can become rockier, particularly as you approach the Turkey Spur Overlook. For an enriched experience, look for self-guided trail brochures available for the initial half-mile, offering insights into the area's natural and cultural history.
This trail is a highlight within the stunning New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, showcasing the dramatic geological features of the region. It connects three significant viewpoints: the Main Overlook, North Overlook, and Turkey Spur Overlook, each offering a unique perspective of the gorge's vastness. The mature mixed forest you walk through is a testament to the area's rich biodiversity, providing a habitat for various plant and animal species. The Grandview Rim Trail is an excellent way to immerse yourself in the natural grandeur and historical depth of this iconic national park.
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1
hikers
758m
00:13
20m
10m
Hike the easy 0.5-mile Tunnel Trail in New River Gorge National Park and Preserve to reach the Grandview Main Overlook with stunning views.
4.14km
01:32
0m
360m
Hike the 2.6-mile Little Laurel Trail in New River Gorge National Park, featuring wildflowers, forest views, and access to the New River.
4.9
(7)
92
hikers
5.58km
01:36
130m
140m
Hike the 3.5-mile Castle Rock and Grandview Rim Trail Loop for dramatic rock formations and spectacular New River Gorge views.
15
hikers
3.14km
01:02
140m
140m
Hike the 2.0-mile (3.1 km) Big Branch Trail, an easy loop in New River Gorge National Park known for wildflowers and waterfalls.
9
hikers
1.52km
00:23
0m
0m
Hike the easy 0.9-mile Island Loop Trail in New River Gorge National Park & Preserve, circling an island below Sandstone Falls.
5.0
(1)
9
hikers
21.2km
05:56
410m
410m
Hike the challenging 13.2-mile Glade Creek Trail in New River Gorge National Park, featuring waterfalls and lush forest scenery.
5
hikers
10.8km
03:16
350m
350m
Hike the Grandview Rim and Little Laurel Trail, a 6.7-mile moderate route with gorge views and diverse plant life in New River Gorge Nationa
10.7km
03:04
260m
260m
Kate's Plateau Trail offers a moderate 6.6-mile hike through primitive forests and wetlands in New River Gorge National Park & Preserve.
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Tips from the Community
No water flow right now (September 2, 2024) but still interesting rock formations to see
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Small waterfall in a beautiful setting. Not overly spectacular but a good turning point for a hike. Attention: the branch path branches off a good 100m later (i.e. upstream) from the main path than shown on the map.
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The wooden bridge that arches over Glade Creek makes an attractive background for a snack or rest spot near the creekside.
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At breaks in the trees, hikers on Big Branch Trail are rewarded for their climbing efforts with spectacular views of the New River—including of Brooks Falls.
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The size of the actual falls at Sandstone Falls will vary some, but for such a short and approachable hike they make a great payoff.
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For those desiring another loop through dense and beautiful forest, the Polls Plateau connector trail leads to Polls Plateau Loop Trail here.
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Though it's hard to single out specific spots along Glade Creek Trail for being more beautiful than others, this segment provides a lot of attractive opportunities to glimpse and hike alongside the creek.
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The wooden bridge that arches over Glade Creek makes an attractive background for a snack or rest spot near the creekside.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in Raleigh County?
Yes, Raleigh County has several options suitable for families and beginners. For a very accessible walk, consider the Island Loop Trail to Sandstone Falls, which features a boardwalk leading to views of the largest waterfall on the New River. Another great choice is the Little Beaver Lake loop from Daniels, an easy trail that circles the 18-acre lake within Little Beaver State Park.
What are the best trails for seeing waterfalls?
The most prominent waterfall is Sandstone Falls, the largest on the New River. You can get excellent views from the accessible boardwalk trail in the Sandstone Falls area. For a different experience, the Glade Creek Trail follows the creek and features several smaller cascades and swimming holes along its path.
Where can I find challenging hikes in the area?
For a more strenuous outing, the region offers trails with significant distance and elevation. The Little Laurel Trail is a moderately difficult hike with over 1,100 feet (350 m) of elevation gain, taking you through dense forests. It offers a solid challenge and rewarding scenery within the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails in Raleigh County?
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on trails in the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, including popular spots like Grandview, as long as they are on a leash no longer than 6 feet. However, rules can vary for state and county parks like Little Beaver State Park and Lake Stephens, so it's always best to check their specific regulations before you go.
What kind of scenery can I expect on the trails in Little Beaver State Park?
Little Beaver State Park offers nearly 20 miles of trails through varied terrain. You can expect to hike through stands of virgin pine and oak, see seasonal wildflowers, and enjoy views of the 18-acre lake. Trails like the Beaver Creek Trail follow the creek and run above the lake, providing pleasant water views.
Which trails offer the best scenic overlooks of the New River Gorge?
The Grandview area of the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is famous for its dramatic vistas. The Grandview Rim & Castle Rock Trail provides spectacular views from 1,400 feet above the river, where you can see for miles along the gorge. The Turkey Spur Overlook in the same area also offers stunning panoramic views.
Are there any trails that feature interesting rock formations?
Absolutely. The Castle Rock Trail, which is part of the popular Grandview Rim loop, is renowned for taking hikers along the base of massive sandstone cliffs and under impressive rock overhangs. It's one of the best trails in the region for experiencing this type of geological feature up close.
What hiking options are available at Lake Stephens?
Lake Stephens Park has around 20 miles of trails suitable for hiking and walking. The trails range from easy to moderate, winding through the hardwood forest that surrounds the 272-acre lake. These paths are a good option if you want to combine a hike with other activities like swimming, boating, or picnicking.
How difficult is the Big Branch Trail?
The Big Branch Trail loop is considered an easy hike. It's a relatively short loop of about 2 miles (3.2 km) with moderate elevation change, making it a great option for a quick and scenic walk through the forest in the New River Gorge area.
What do other hikers enjoy most about Raleigh County?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community. Reviewers often praise the dramatic scenery of the New River Gorge, particularly the stunning views from the Grandview overlooks. The variety of trails, from easy waterfall walks to challenging riverside treks, is also frequently mentioned as a major highlight.
When is the best time of year to hike in Raleigh County?
Hiking is excellent year-round, but spring and fall offer the most pleasant weather. In late spring, typically May and June, the Grandview area is famous for its spectacular bloom of Catawba rhododendrons. Autumn provides brilliant fall foliage throughout the gorge. Summer is also popular, though it can be hot and humid, while winter offers a quieter experience but requires preparation for cold and potentially icy conditions.
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