Hiking in West Virginia offers a wide range of experiences, from peaceful woodland paths to rugged mountain climbs and dramatic overlooks. Hikers can explore dense forests, rocky ridgelines, and historic routes while enjoying abundant wildlife and changing seasonal views.
- Seneca Rock in Monongahela National Forest
- Raven Rock in Coopers Rock State Forest
Seneca Rock – This is the most popular trail in all of Monongahela National Forest. The hiking trail begins at the Seneca Rocks Discovery Center. The rock has a north and south peak with a central notch called the Gunsight notch. The scenic hike with many switchbacks is 3.7 miles round trip with an elevation gain of 800ft.
As you start your hike, you will quickly come to an arched bridge across the North Fork River.
There are interpretive signs along the trail that provide information about the trees and geology of the area. The hike gradually ascends through the forest before reaching a steeper uphill section with several switchbacks.
Once you reach the top, there is an observation platform that allows for some gorgeous views to the west.
You can continue past this point, but it is not for the feeble-footed. This path will take you to actually hike the skinny area of the top of Seneca Rocks. Some of us did some rock scrambling and climbed a bit further, but none of us ventured to the skinny part of the trail.
Raven Rock Hike – is located in Coopers Rock State Forest where the Cheat River carves a deep, sandstone canyon through thick forest, making the area one of the most popular outdoors destinations in the Morgantown area. The Raven Rock Trail is a popular and moderately rocky 2.5-3 mile out-and-back hike leading to a stunning overlook of the Cheat River Gorge.
Hiking along Cheat Lake – There is 4.5 mile long hiking and biking trail that runs along the lake. It is a 12 foot wide trail that is handicap accessible. There are several picnic benches and picnic area around the lake.
