The best walks and hikes in Raleigh County

The Grandview Rim Trail offers a journey through a mature mixed forest of hardwoods and rhododendrons, providing refreshing shade as you hike. The path is mostly a flat dirt track, but you'll encounter some rocky sections and short, moderately steep climbs, especially leading up to the Turkey Spur Overlook, which requires navigating about 150 steps. From various cliff-top vantage points, you'll witness spectacular panoramic views of the New River Gorge, with the river flowing 1,400 feet below.

This moderate 4.1-mile (6.6 km) hike, with 247 feet (75 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 2 hours and 12 minutes. The Grandview unit of the park is generally less crowded, making it a peaceful option. Dogs are permitted on leash, and sturdy footwear is recommended due to potential muddy or uneven sections. For the best experience, aim for early mornings to potentially see a mist-filled gorge or visit in late spring for blooming rhododendrons.

The trail is renowned for connecting several exceptional viewpoints, including the Main Overlook, which offers a classic horseshoe bend vista, and the Turkey Spur Overlook, providing a stunning 360-degree panorama where you can see multiple bends of the New River. This route showcases the deepest section of the New River Gorge and is considered to be at the highest point within the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, making it a must-do for iconic views.

The Grandview Rim Trail offers a rewarding hiking experience through the New River Gorge National Park & Preserve, guiding you along a forested rim with stunning views. You'll traverse a mix of flat dirt paths and rockier sections, passing through areas rich with rhododendrons and mountain laurel, especially beautiful in late spring. The highlight is undoubtedly the Main Overlook, providing expansive vistas of the gorge, and the Turkey Spur Overlook, which requires climbing 150 steps for its nearly 360-degree panorama. This moderate route covers 4.1 miles (6.6 km) with 247 feet (75 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 2 hours and 12 minutes to complete.

Planning your visit to the Grandview Rim Trail is relatively simple, as it's generally accessible and doesn't require permits. Sturdy footwear is a good idea due to some uneven terrain. The trail is a popular choice for families and photographers, and its beauty changes with the seasons; consider visiting in autumn for vibrant foliage or late spring for blooming flowers. While specific parking details aren't highlighted, the trail is well-known within the park, suggesting clear trailhead access.

What makes this one of the best trails in the region is its combination of accessibility and truly spectacular viewpoints. It connects several significant overlooks, each offering a unique perspective of the New River Gorge at its deepest point. For those seeking a greater challenge, the parallel Castle Rock Trail offers a more difficult and very rocky alternative, providing a different perspective from the cliff bottoms. The Grandview Rim Trail is a fantastic option for experiencing the natural features of the park without an overly strenuous commitment.

The Tunnel Trail in New River Gorge National Park & Preserve offers a refreshing, shady escape into dense woods. This easy 0.5-mile (0.8 km) hiking route takes you along a stony footpath, beneath large rock outcroppings, and up multi-tiered wooden staircases, all while surrounded by vibrant, moss-laden sandstone. It's a quick, cool journey with just 55 feet (17 metres) of elevation gain, making it an ideal choice for a short, pleasant walk.

Planning your visit to the Tunnel Trail is straightforward. As a short, easy hike that takes only about 12 minutes, it's perfect for fitting into a busy day or as a cool-down walk. Parking is generally available at the trailhead. This trail is particularly appealing on hot days due to its dense tree cover, so consider it when you need a break from the sun.

This trail is notable for its natural rock formations, including a large rock overhang it passes beneath. While the historical tunnels that give the trail its name are currently inaccessible, the route still provides a unique glimpse into the lush ecosystem of the New River Gorge. It's a great option for families or anyone seeking a brief, immersive nature experience.

Hike the 2.6-mile Little Laurel Trail in New River Gorge National Park, featuring wildflowers, forest views, and access to the New River.

The Castle Rock and Grandview Rim Trail Loop offers a fantastic blend of rugged geology and expansive vistas within New River Gorge National Park. You'll navigate the challenging Castle Rock Trail, which features rocky sections, uneven footing, and close-up views of massive cliffs and exposed coal seams. The route then transitions to the smoother Grandview Rim Trail, rewarding you with panoramic overlooks of the New River Gorge, including the iconic horseshoe bend from the Grandview Main Overlook. This 3.5-mile (5.6 km) hike, with 436 feet (133 metres) of elevation gain, is rated easy and typically takes about 1 hour and 35 minutes to complete, making it a great choice for a rewarding, shorter outing.

Planning your visit to this popular trail is straightforward, with parking available at the Grandview area. However, it's wise to arrive early, especially on weekends or during peak seasons, as the lot can fill up quickly. The Castle Rock section can be quite rugged and potentially slippery when wet, so good footwear is a must. Late spring is a particularly beautiful time to visit, as the rhododendrons and mountain laurel add vibrant color to the landscape.

What makes this loop truly stand out among other trails in the region is its unique combination of intimate geological exploration and grand scenic views. You get to experience the gorge from two distinct perspectives: walking directly at the base of towering rock formations and then gazing out over the vast expanse from above. This trail effectively showcases the "grand views" that give the area its name, offering a memorable insight into the natural features and dramatic landscape of the New River Gorge.

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.

If you're looking for a peaceful, easy walk with a unique backdrop, the Island Loop Trail is a great choice. This 0.9-mile (1.5 km) circular walk takes you around the largest island situated just below the impressive Sandstone Falls. You'll experience a gentle path with only 11 feet (3 metres) of elevation gain, winding through areas where old fields are slowly transitioning back to forest, offering a quiet natural experience.

To plan your visit, head to the Sandstone Falls Boardwalk, as the trail starts and ends right there. This easy route is perfect for beginners or families, taking approximately 23 minutes to complete. Parking is typically available near the boardwalk, but it's always wise to arrive earlier on busy days to secure a spot.

Historically, this island was quite active, having been farmed, grazed, timbered, and even home to a grist mill. Today, it offers a fascinating look at natural succession and a unique perspective of the New River Gorge. It's a wonderful, family-friendly option if you're exploring the area and want a short, rewarding hike.

Step onto the Glade Creek Trail and discover a tranquil journey through the heart of New River Gorge National Park. This 13.2-mile (21.2 km) difficult hike follows an old railroad grade alongside the picturesque Glade Creek, offering continuous views of cascades, small waterfalls, and abundant swimming holes. You'll wind through lush forests of hardwoods and rhododendrons, with the highlight being the detour to Kates Fall, a stunning 15-foot waterfall. The path is mostly gentle, though some sections can be rocky and muddy, especially after rain, adding to its wild charm.

Planning your visit to the Glade Creek Trail is straightforward, with parking available at the trailhead. This route is less crowded than some other park trails, making it ideal if you seek solitude. While the 1349 feet (411 metres) of elevation gain is spread out, expect to spend around 5 hours and 55 minutes on the trail. It's a great option for a full day out, and its relatively flat profile, despite the length, makes it an accessible challenge for many hikers.

What truly sets the Glade Creek Trail apart is its blend of natural beauty and history. The path itself is built on an abandoned narrow-gauge railroad corridor once used for hauling coal, giving it a unique character. Beyond hiking, the creek is a popular spot for catch-and-release trout fishing and wild swimming. The trail also boasts a rich biodiversity, passing through wetlands and old-growth areas, and offers several readily accessible campsites for those looking to extend their stay in this serene part of Raleigh County.

The Grandview Rim and Little Laurel Trail offers a dynamic hiking experience, transitioning from pleasant forest paths to a challenging descent into the gorge. You'll start on the Grandview Rim Trail, enjoying cliff-top vantage points with breathtaking views of the New River 1,400 feet below, especially from the panoramic Turkey Spur Overlook. The route then takes you down the strenuous Little Laurel Trail, a 1,400-foot drop to the river, passing the historic Royal coal mine site.

This moderate 6.7-mile (10.8 km) hike involves 1165 feet (355 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 3 hours and 15 minutes. The Grandview Rim section is generally moderate with some steps, while the Little Laurel Trail is strenuous due to its steep descent and challenging uphill return. It's a great option for hikers seeking both incredible views and a solid workout.

For the best scenery, plan your visit for late spring to see rhododendron and mountain laurel in bloom, or late fall and winter for clearer views into the gorge. The trail begins near the Grandview Visitor Center, where parking is available. This combination of trails provides a unique perspective on the New River Gorge, blending accessible viewpoints with a more remote, challenging descent.