9 Incredible Hikes Under 5 Miles Everyone In West Virginia Should Take

There is no greater way to relax and leave your stress behind than embarking on one of the best hikes in West Virginia. And while there are tons of scenic hikes in West Virginia, these nine awesome trails are less than 5 miles. Providing an easy escape, these short, easy hikes in West Virginia could be easily squeezed in during your lunch hour.

1. Carpendale Trail, 0.8 miles

The Carpendale Trail may be just under one mile, but it’s packed with beauty. The trail straddles the Potomac River between the town of Carpendale in West Virginia and Cumberland in Maryland. The wooden bridge that spans the river is 386-feet long and leads to a 1,500-foot tunnel. The Carpendale Trail does close from time to time, so make sure to check its status before visiting.

2. County Line Trail, 4 miles

Located in Pipestem Resort State Park, the beautiful County Line Trail is 4-miles long. It goes from Waites Run to Gerhard Shelter. It runs along the West Virginia/Virginia border and offers amazing views.

3. Harpers Ferry Rail Trail, 0.14 miles

The Harpers Ferry Rail Trail spans the Potomac River. This pedestrian walking bridge allows access between Harpers Ferry and the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historic Park. It also connects to the Appalachian Trail.

4. Marion County Trail, 2.5 miles

Better known as the MCT Trail, the Marion County Trail runs just short of 3 miles along Prickett’s Creek. The trail’s main attraction is the 1,200-foot lighted Meredith Tunnel.

5. Narrow Gauge Trail, 3 Miles

The Narrow Gauge trail runs through the beautiful Babcock State Park. The trail is used by hikers and bikers, but if you are not an accomplished cyclist you may want to hike this trail; it is a pretty rough ride on a bike.

6. Potts Valley Rail Trail, 4.5 miles

The Potts Valley Rail Trail was created on an abandoned section of the Norfolk and Western Branch rail line. The rail line was used in the early 1900s to haul lumber and iron ore. Most of the trail runs through the gorgeous George Washington and Jefferson National Forests.

7. Seneca Creek Trail, 5 miles

The beautiful Seneca Creek Trail is located in Spruce Knob. The 5-mile trail will take you past waterfalls and some of the region’s best creek trout fishing.

8. Wellsburg Yankee Trail, 2.2 miles

The Wellsburg Yankee Trail spans the entire length of the small town. The trail is paved and runs into the Brooke Pioneer Trail, which is 7-miles long.

9. Hawks Nest Rail Trail, 1.8 miles

The Hawks Nest Rail Trail is in Hawks Nest State Park located near Ansted. The trail runs along Mill Creek, which features several waterfalls.

Each of these trails offers a real taste of West Virginia’s natural beauty. What are you waiting for? Grab your backpack and hiking shoes and embark on one of the best hikes in West Virginia!

Looking for more easy treks in the state? You’re sure to love these short, kid-friendly hikes around West Virginia?