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Embarking on an 8-day adventure through West Virginia’s breathtaking landscapes offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in nature’s beauty. From the towering peaks of the Appalachian Mountains to the serene waters of West Virginia’s pristine rivers, this road trip promises a blend of exhilarating hikes, stunning vistas, and unforgettable experiences. Each day is packed with a variety of trails that cater to different skill levels, ensuring that everyone can find their perfect path. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of majestic waterfalls, scenic overlooks, or peaceful forest trails, this journey through West Virginia is sure to leave you captivated and inspired. Get ready to explore the wonders that await in this extraordinary state!
Where to Stay:
Days 1-3: Davis, West Virginia – we stayed at Blackwater Falls State Park Campground
Days 4-8: Fayetteville, West Virginia – we stayed at Bear Mountain Cabins & Campground
Know Before You Go:
- If you click on any park name throughout this itinerary, you will be taken to a park-specific post. Those posts will offer more information on lodging, dining, cell service, and trail tips for that park.
- For even the shorter trails, it is advisable to wear waterproof footwear that provides good traction.
- Many roads leading to these trailheads may be closed during winter due to snowfall. (Parkway portion of the Highland Scenic Drive, access road to Bear Rocks Preserve, and access road to Whispering Spruce Trail)
- All of these trails are pet-friendly except for the Cranberry Bog Boardwalk.
- While sightings are rare, black bears are active throughout West Virginia. Please review wildlife safety before heading out.
- Please print or grab a map before heading out on any trail. Each trail in the park will be marked with a different color blaze. (Want to check out AllTrails+? Use this link for a discount- AllTrails+.)
- As always, please follow Leave No Trace principles.
Day 1
Canaan Valley Resort State Park
- Bald Mountain (2.2 mi., 1000+ ft)
- Blackwater River Trail (1 mi., 30+ft)
Bear Rocks Preserve
- Bear Rock Preserve Loop (1 mi., 50 ft)
Day 2
- Elakala Falls Trail (0.8 mi., 100+ft)
- Blackwater Falls Trail (0.5 mi., 100+ ft)
- Pendleton Point Overlook
- Albert, Teresa, Douglas, and Kennedy Falls via Blackwater Canyon Trail (1.4 mi., 50+ ft)
- Lindy Point- incredible at sunset (0.8 mi., 50+ ft)
Day 3
Spruce Knob- Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area
- Seneca Rocks Discovery Center
- Seneca Rocks Trail (3.6 mi., 1000+ ft)
- Whispering Spruce Trail (0.6 mi., 20+ ft)
- Spruce Knob Lake (1 mi., 10+ ft)
Day 4
- Boardwalk Loop (0.5 mi., 50+ ft)
Cranberry Glades Botanical Area
- Cranberry Mountain Nature Center
- Cranberry Bog Boardwalk (0.7 mi., 10 ft)
- Falls of Hills Creek (1.8 mi., 300+ ft- 400+ stairs)
- Highland Scenic Drive (43 mi., one-way)
Day 5
- Canyon Rim Boardwalk (0.4 mi., 50+ ft- 178 stairs)
- Fayette Station Road Scenic Drive
- Long Point Trail (3 mi., 300+ ft)
Day 6
Babcock State Park
- Skyline/Rocky/Narrow Gauge Loop (4.4 mi., 600+ ft)
- Island in the Sky Trail (0.2mi., 20+ ft- hike from top parking lot)
- Boley Lake Trail (1.2 mi., 60+ ft)
- Natural Arch/Mountain Heath Trail (0.5 mi., 20+ ft)
Day 7
- Glade Creek Falls- from campground (2 mi., 200+ft)
- Grandview Overlook/Tunnel Trail (0.6 mi., 100+ ft)
- Big Branch Falls (1.8 mi., 500+ ft)
- Sandstone Falls/Island Loop (1 mi., 20+ ft)
Day 8
- Kanawha Falls (roadside)
- Cathedral Falls (0.2 mi., 20+ ft)
- Hawk’s Nest State Park Overlook (0.2 mi., 20+ ft)
- Endless Wall Trail (3 mi., 500+ ft)
- Dunloup Falls (roadside)
I hope you have an incredible adventure!
Looking for another road trip itinerary? Check out our Tennessee Waterfall Road Trip Itinerary!
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