The best walks and hikes in Preston County

Hike the moderate 5.0-mile Coopers Rock State Forest Loop, gaining 579 feet in elevation with panoramic Cheat River Gorge views.

The Snake Hill Trail offers a diverse hiking experience through rolling hills and rocky cliffs, leading to exceptional scenic overlooks. You'll find yourself gazing out at sweeping vistas of Cheat Lake, Coopers Rock, and the impressive Cheat River Gorge, especially from the Cheat View highlight. This 5.6-mile (9.0 km) route, with 485 feet (148 metres) of elevation gain, is rated moderate and typically takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes, making it a rewarding outing for those who enjoy varied scenery and panoramic views.

When planning your visit, be aware that the Snake Hill Wildlife Management Area has no public facilities, so bring everything you need. The trail is particularly beautiful in spring and summer when wildflowers are abundant, and in the fall for vibrant foliage. Always exercise caution near overlooks, as there are no guard rails.

This trail provides a serene natural escape, often less trafficked than other areas, allowing for a more solitary hiking experience. Beyond hiking, the broader WMA also offers opportunities for less-explored sandstone climbing, adding another dimension to this scenic area in Monongalia County.

The Rhododendron, Ridge, and Rattlesnake Trail Loop offers a diverse hiking experience through Coopers Rock State Forest, combining dense forests with dramatic rock formations. You'll navigate dirt paths and rocky sections, winding through rhododendron thickets that bloom beautifully in late spring and early summer, and encounter impressive, massive rock formations along the Rattlesnake Trail. The route provides immersive forest scenery and occasional panoramic views of the Cheat River Canyon, making it a dynamic and engaging journey.

This moderate 4.4-mile (7.1 km) loop, with 741 feet (226 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 2 hours and 6 minutes to complete. It's a great option for hikers with some experience or beginners seeking a challenge, offering varied terrain with inclines and declines. The trail is generally accessible for those with good fitness, and dogs are welcome on leash.

Beyond its natural beauty, the loop is notable for its unique ecosystems and historical connections; the Rhododendron Trail segment links to the historic Henry Clay Iron Furnace, offering a glimpse into the area's past. The diverse landscapes, from hardwood forests to rocky cliffs, provide a rich experience, especially during the blooming season of the rhododendrons.

The Blue Trail offers a wonderfully accessible and easy hiking experience, perfect for those new to the outdoors or looking for a relaxed walk. With a gentle 190 feet (58 metres) of elevation gain over 3.5 miles (5.6 km), you can expect a comfortable path that takes approximately 1 hour and 29 minutes to complete. It's a great option for a quick nature fix without demanding terrain.

Planning your visit to the Blue Trail should be straightforward, given its easy rating. While specific parking or trailhead details aren't available, such trails are typically easy to access. It's always a good idea to check the weather forecast before you go, and consider an early morning or late afternoon start to enjoy cooler temperatures and potentially quieter paths.

This Blue Trail stands out as a solid choice for family-friendly Blue Trail hikes or beginner Blue Trail hiking trails, providing a low-impact way to enjoy the outdoors. Its ease and relatively short duration make it a versatile option for a casual stroll, a quick dog walk, or simply unwinding in nature without the commitment of a longer, more strenuous trek.

The Ravens Rock Trail in Coopers Rock State Forest offers a fantastic, easy hike to one of West Virginia's most impressive viewpoints. You'll start on a wide gravel path that soon narrows into a more natural, rocky trail winding through a wooded hillside. The highlight is undoubtedly the Raven Rock Overlook, which provides sweeping, panoramic views of the Cheat River Gorge from 1,000 feet above the river, a truly memorable sight.

This 1.2-mile (1.9 km) out-and-back route is rated easy, with a gentle 76 feet (23 metres) of elevation gain, making it a perfect choice for families or anyone wanting a quick, high-reward experience. It typically takes about 34 minutes to complete, so it's easy to fit into a busy day exploring the area. The trail is well-suited for a leisurely stroll to a spectacular vista.

Raven Rock is a popular destination for hikers and photographers alike, known for its dramatic views of the Cheat River Gorge. It's a great way to experience the natural beauty of Monongalia County without committing to a long or challenging trek. Consider visiting during the fall for vibrant foliage, or on a clear day to fully appreciate the expansive vistas.

The Maryland High Point Trail offers a unique journey through lush forests that transition from hardwood to coniferous trees as you climb. While the path is a consistently uphill climb, the reward at Hoye Crest, Maryland's highest point, is expansive panoramic views across the rolling hills and valleys of both Maryland and West Virginia. You'll find a stone obelisk marking the state boundary near the summit, along with a logbook for visitors.

Access to this trail is a bit unusual, as the most practical way to start your hike is from West Virginia, just off U.S. Route 219. The trail is well-marked with red "HP" blazes or red wooden signs, guiding you up the approximately 1.1-mile (1.8 km) path. Expect a steady ascent of 628 feet (191 metres), which, despite the Komoot easy rating, can feel moderate due to its consistent steepness. The estimated time to complete the hike is around 41 minutes.

This trail is a popular destination for "highpointers" aiming to visit the highest point in each state, making it a notable geographical anomaly. The summit area provides amenities like picnic tables and benches, perfect for a short break to enjoy the vistas. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including deer and various birds, as you make your way through this distinctive landscape.

The Underlook Trail offers a unique, hands-on hiking experience beneath the famous Coopers Rock Overlook in West Virginia. This short but adventurous route, just 0.6 miles (0.9 km) long with 207 feet (63 metres) of elevation gain, is rated easy but features surprisingly technical terrain. You'll find yourself navigating large boulders, fallen trees, and even tight

The Snaggy Mountain Trail Loop offers a delightful journey through varied landscapes, from serene hardwood forests to open, grassy sections. The highlight is undoubtedly the 'Rock Maze,' a fascinating geological feature where massive boulders appear to have been scattered by a giant, creating intriguing fissures and moss-covered formations. You'll also encounter occasional wet meadow bogs, adding to the trail's diverse natural appeal.

This easy 3.2-mile (5.2 km) hiking route involves a modest 276 feet (84 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes about 1 hour and 24 minutes to complete. The trails are multi-use and dog-friendly, making it a great option for families or a leisurely outing with your pet. While specific parking for this loop isn't detailed, the area is well-integrated into Garrett State Forest, providing ample access.

Located within Garrett State Forest, this area is historically significant as the birthplace of forestry conservation in Maryland. The trails connect to a larger network, including Herrington Manor State Park, offering further exploration opportunities. It's a fantastic choice for those seeking a gentle introduction to hiking or a unique natural feature like the Rock Maze without committing to a long, strenuous trek.

Hike the easy 0.6-mile Wood Thrush Trail in Cathedral State Park, a short route with 79 feet of elevation gain, perfect for a quick nature e