This Is the Quietest Part of This West Virginia State Park

There are 36 state parks in West Virginia, and I think each one is worthy of exploration. Popular parks like Blackwater Falls and Hawks Nest draw thousands of visitors every year, for good reason! But sometimes, I like to find a mid-range state park and explore one of the quieter sections. That’s where Pinnacle Rock State Park comes in. It’s not the largest or most popular state park in West Virginia, but it’s one where you can still find some quiet sections that’ll make you feel like you’ve got the entire place to yourself. 

Pinnacle Rock State Park is located in Mercer County, a stone’s throw from the Virginia-West Virginia state line. The park is known for its 3,100-foot sandstone formation, Pinnacle Rock, from which it earned its name. Established in 1938, the park boasts several hiking trails throughout its 400 acres. 

The Pinnacle Rock Overlook is one of the most popular sections of the park. You can access this beautiful view via a 0.5-mile hiking trail, and I certainly think it’s worth your while if you’re already at the park. 

If you really want to experience the quietest part of the park, make your way to the Acorn Ridge Trail. It’s a two-mile out-and-back trail with about 320 feet of elevation, which is the perfect combo for me. Most folks can knock this out in about an hour. 

The trail is well-marked and begins at County Road 2/6 at Jimmy Lewis Lake. Speaking of which, the Lakeview Trail is another peaceful trail here at this state park where you could very well find yourself the only one around. The waterfront trail hugs the lake for the entirety of the trail, and is a nice place for a casual stroll!

Back to the Acorn Ridge Trail. The trail leads you through the forest. I think spring or summer is the best time to tackle this trail, that way you can be surrounded by all of the vibrant shades of green. You might even spot a few wildflowers along the path. 

This trail won’t win any awards for sweeping vista views or ground-shaking waterfalls. It’s a chance to wander through a forested setting and just be present. Listen to the sounds of the leaves beneath your feet. The sounds of the songbirds in the trees. The feeling of a breeze blowing past you. That’s what it’s all about, right?

Weekends are always going to be peak times for state parks. If you want to boost your chances of having the trail to yourself, visit on weekdays. I’m always trying to escape the crowds at popular destinations, and if that means waking up early to do so, well, so be it! It’s worth it to find you’ve got the whole place to yourself. 

There are no overnight camping accommodations at Pinnacle Rock State Park, but there are plenty of picnic areas with tables and grills. Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch down by the lake after the hike! There are also restrooms near the lake as well as a playground for kids. 

Share this article with someone you want to explore Pinnacle Rock State Park with. For more information, visit the official website for Pinnacle Rock State Park.