West Virginia is home to some of the most spectacular scenery along the eastern side of the United States. During your stay at Four Fillies Lodge, a scenic drive in any direction will take you to gorgeous hikes in West Virginia.
Appalachian Trail
Possibly one of the most famous hikes in America, the Appalachian Trail is a long distance challenge for the avid hiker. The full Appalachian Trail crosses 14 states and stretches 2,193 miles long, taking you through beautiful lush scenery. For those who just want to enjoy a snippet of the trail and scenic views, there are access points you can hop on and off throughout the states. West Virginia is home to many of those access points including the Appalachian Trail Access via Groundhog Trail just 15 minutes from Four Fillies Lodge.
Canyon Rim Overlook Boardwalk
If you are looking for an easy hike with gorgeous views, less than 2 hours away in Lansing, you will find the Canyon Rim Overlook Boardwalk. After a half mile walk, the boardwalk will lead you to an amazing overlook with views of the New River, the gorge, and the New River Gorge Bridge. At 3000 feet, the bridge is the longest single span bridge in the United States. The first overlook is completely accessible by boardwalk and ramp. Another 178 steps down a wooden staircase will take you to another breathtaking view of the river and bridge. The scenic views make this short trek well worth it for both the experienced explorer as well as the beginner hiker.
Hills Creek Falls
A 2 hour drive will take you to the Monongahela National Forest which houses the Hills Creek Falls. An easy 1.8 mile in and out hike will bring you to a set of 3 falls. The upper waterfall can be accessed by a wheelchair accessible paved pathway. If you continue along a natural trail, down wooden steps, and cross a wooden bridge over the stream, you will overlook the middle falls, standing at 45 feet. Continue down the 3 story tall steel staircase to get a better view of the middle falls and a spectacular lower falls. When you reach the bottom of the staircase, turn left to find the lower falls. At 63 feet, the lower falls of the Hills Creek Falls has earned the label of the second tallest waterfall in West Virginia.
Endless Wall Trail
In 2015, USA Today titled the Endless Wall Trail the “Best National Park Hike”. Year-round, you will find beautiful views of the Potomac River. 3 hours away in New Haven, the 2.4 mile hike spans between the Fern Creek Trailhead and the Nuttall Trailhead. Take a moderate walk through a full forest and across Fern Creek. After just over a mile of hiking, you will want to take in the breathtaking views of Diamond Point. Not only is the Diamond Point a stunning view, but you will be amazed by the views along the entire trail. You may even witness courageous rock climbers and adventurous whitewater rafters. Once you reach Diamond Point, you can either turn back around to head home, or you can continue to the end of the trail, where you will need to walk a half mile along the road back to the trailhead.
Beauty Mountain Trail
Only 1.5 hours away near Fayettville, the Beauty Mountain Trail has very little elevation gain, giving you easy access to breathtaking views. You can follow the main trail which takes you along the cliff edge to capture beautiful scenery from the numerous overlook points; or you can venture along side trails, which usually loop back to the main trail. Be sure to bring your camera, because after a short .75 miles of hiking, you will reach the Rams Head overlook. Sunset is the ideal time to capture amazing photos at Rams Head overlook. Then, stop for dinner along the scenic drive back to Four Fillies Lodge.
A Virginia Neighbor Hike
Although not in West Virginia like the title of this blog states, I felt that I couldn’t leave out the Cascade Falls Trail, which is a very popular and beautiful hike located only 30 minutes from Four Fillies Lodge in Pembroke, Virginia. This trail is 4 miles long and takes you to a 69 foot waterfall where hikers can either just enjoy the view or take a dip in the swimming hole at the base of the waterfall during the summer months. This is surely a gorgeous hike and one of our top recommendations for guests staying in our cabins at Four Filles Lodge.
There are endless hiking opportunities when you stay with us at Four Fillies Lodge! This blog just touched the surface, and guests looking for hikes should also check out the New River Gorge National Park where they can find many other hiking opportunities. Book a cabin at www.fourfillieslodge.com to start your adventure today!
