Underrated National Forest Hikes in West Virginia That Rival 5 National Park Hikes

To me, there is nothing quite like spending a few days exploring a national park, choosing a hike every day, and enjoying a firsthand experience of why that park is so coveted. But between the foot traffic, cost to enter, and other expensive factors, sometimes a trip to the national park just isn't in the cards. With that, I say, keep calm and carry on over to the nearby national forests! As the unsung heroes of the National Park Service (NPS), national forests hold much of the same natural wonder, often without the hefty price tag. Let's take a look at some underrated national forest hikes in West Virginia that rival national park hikes.

1. Cranberry Glades Boardwalk – Monongahela National Forest

Rival: Everglades National Park’s Anhinga Trail

West Virginia may not seem like a wetland destination, but the Cranberry Glades Botanical Area is a rare boreal bog ecosystem that feels worlds away from Appalachia. The flat, family-friendly boardwalk leads through sphagnum moss wetlands, unusual plant life like carnivorous sundews (!), and striking mountain views. Just as the Anhinga Trail showcases Florida’s unique marsh habitats, this boardwalk immerses hikers in one of the most distinctive landscapes of the Monongahela. Keep in mind, this trail is a short one, with the loop only taking around a half mile to complete.

2. North Fork Mountain Trail – Monongahela National Forest

Rivals: Old Rag Mountain – Shenandoah National Park

Running along a rugged ridgeline, the North Fork Mountain Trail offers panoramic views of Seneca Rocks, Germany Valley, and the Potomac River. Much like Old Rag’s famed granite scramble in Virginia, this hike is challenging and rewarding, with dramatic overlooks and exposed rock outcrops. But unlike Old Rag, you’ll often find yourself with wide-open views and far fewer crowds. This trail is a doozy, clocking in at 23 miles, but you don't have to hike the whole thing to enjoy. There are multiple access trails for you to choose from to get the same rewards.

3. Seneca Creek Trail – Monongahela National Forest

Rivals: Smokemont Loop – Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Your trail passes by a historic cemetery predating the Great Smoky Mountains National Park? I'll raise you multiple waterfalls and a tunnel of trees! This ten-miler is a stunner to say the least, as you'll be following along the creek and passing multiple waterfalls along the way. The highlight for many hikers is during the summer months, when you can stop along the creek and get in a quick swim.

4. Dolly Sods Wilderness (Blackbird Knob Trail) – Monongahela National Forest

Rivals: Appalachian Trail’s McAfee Knob – Virginia

Any hiking trail rivaling the Appalachian Trail needs to pack a punch, right? Well, the Blackbird Knob Trail does that and more. First, make sure to find the starting point: just north of Red Creek Campground along Dolly Sods Road/FS 75. Then, the world is your 4.7-mile oyster. There is a hefty elevation shift along this trail at two spots: in the beginning, when you head downhill towards Red Creek, and then back up to Blackbird Knob. But I can say that the views you'll get along the way are out of this world. Pro tip: Visit during the fall to really level up your vantage point.

5. Spruce Knob via Huckleberry Trail – Monongahela National Forest

Rivals: Clingmans Dome – Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Of course, we have to add Spruce Knob to this list, because who wouldn't want to reach the highest point in West Virginia?! The Huckleberry Trail climbs through spruce forest and windswept ridges before arriving at the observation tower, where the horizon seems endless. Like Clingmans Dome in the Smokies, this hike takes you to the highest peak in the state, but without the paved tourist rush, it feels like a true wilderness summit.