Greenbrier River Trail

The trail follows a former railroad bed, so it features a wide, gravel-packed surface that is largely flat with a remarkably mellow one percent grade. You'll find sections with rougher gravel and others with finer gravel, but it's generally very easy to traverse.

Yes, absolutely! The trail is rated as 'Easy' physically due to its gentle grade and flat terrain, making it accessible for hikers and cyclists of all abilities, including beginners and families.

The trail offers beautiful views of the Greenbrier River for most of its length. Key highlights include the 402-foot-long Droop Mountain Tunnel and the 511-foot-long Sharps Tunnel. You'll also pass through remote areas, see rocky ledges, small waterfalls like Loopemount Waterfall, and rhododendron thickets. Keep an eye out for wildlife, especially deer.

There are 14 access points along the 78-mile trail, providing various options to start your adventure. The trail runs from its northern end at Cass to its southern terminus at Caldwell. Parking is available at these access points, making it convenient for day trips or longer excursions.

The trail is enjoyable year-round, but spring and fall offer particularly pleasant conditions with mild temperatures and beautiful scenery. Spring brings blooming rhododendrons, while fall showcases vibrant foliage. Summer is also popular, though it can be warmer, and winter offers a serene, snowy landscape for those prepared for colder conditions.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the Greenbrier River Trail. However, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash and ensure you clean up after them to maintain the trail's cleanliness and respect other users and wildlife.

The Greenbrier River Trail is operated by West Virginia State Parks. Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to access the trail itself. However, if you plan to use facilities at connecting state parks or forests, or stay at primitive campsites, it's advisable to check with the respective park authorities for any potential fees or regulations.

Yes, the trail offers 16 primitive campsites, some of which include shelters like the Dale McCutcheon Shelter. You can find specific campsites such as Mile 20.5 Campsite and Mile 4.7 Campsite. These provide options for multi-day trips, often with amenities like picnic tables and water stops.

Yes, the route is primarily the Greenbrier River Trail itself, covering 100% of the tour. However, sections of the trail are also identified as part of the Greenbrier River Trail in OpenStreetMap data, indicating its consistent identity and connectivity within the region.

A unique aspect of the Greenbrier River Trail is that a portion of it falls within a National Radio Quiet Zone. This means that cell service may be unavailable in certain areas, enhancing the feeling of remoteness and allowing for a true escape into nature. Be prepared for limited connectivity.

The trail passes through remote areas of West Virginia, offering opportunities to spot various wildlife. Deer are frequently sighted, and you might also encounter other forest animals and a variety of bird species. The river itself supports diverse aquatic life.