Glade Creek Campground

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.

Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the Glade Creek Trail – Glade Creek Bridge loop from Glade, a 6.3-mile (10.2 km) hiking route that winds alongside the picturesque Glade Creek. You'll be surrounded by a mature, second-growth mixed forest, with the constant sound of flowing water and the chance to spot Glade Creek Falls early in your journey. The trail offers a moderate challenge, with 445 feet (136 metres) of elevation gain, and takes approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes to complete, making it a perfect half-day adventure.

This trail is known for its relatively uncrowded experience compared to other spots in the New River Gorge, offering a peaceful escape. While specific parking information isn't detailed, it's always a good idea to arrive early, especially on weekends, to ensure a smooth start to your hike. The path is generally accessible, though the initial sections can be rockier before it widens and improves after the bridge crossing around the three-mile mark.

Beyond hiking, the Glade Creek Trail is rich in history, following an abandoned narrow-gauge railroad bed once used for coal transport. It's also a hotspot for biodiversity, showcasing massive boulders, steep sandstone cliffs, and ancient fossils, reflecting the New River Gorge's status as the oldest gorge in the Appalachian mountains. Keep an eye out for native wildlife and consider bringing your fishing gear for some catch-and-release trout fishing in the lower half of the creek.

Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the Glade Creek Trail, a delightful 2.8-mile (4.6 km) loop that offers an easy 1 hour and 13 minutes of hiking. This route, with just 195 feet (60 metres) of elevation gain, winds through a lush, dense forest alongside the picturesque Glade Creek, creating a truly magical, fairytale-like atmosphere. You'll encounter numerous small cascades and the notable Kate's Falls, all while walking on a path that was once a narrow-gauge railroad bed, making for a generally flat and pleasant journey.

Planning your visit to this easy trail is straightforward, though it's important to note that the main Glade Creek Trail is typically an out-and-back. This particular route provides a loop experience, and for those seeking longer adventures, there are connections to Kates Plateau Trail and Polls Plateau Trail; always check with the Park Service for current conditions before planning a combined loop. The trail is known for its peaceful seclusion, even on busy weekends, offering a tranquil escape, and parking is available at the trailhead.

Beyond its natural charm, the Glade Creek Trail boasts a rich history, following a corridor once used to transport coal from mines within the New River Gorge. It's also a haven for biodiversity, passing through wetlands and old-growth areas that host threatened species, and you can even spot geological treasures like embedded coal. The creek itself is popular for swimming holes, catch-and-release trout fishing, and even kayaking, making it a versatile spot for various outdoor activities.