Grab Your REI Base Layers for This Hike in West Virginia That’s 100% Worth Braving the Cold

Most people would tell you that hiking in West Virginia is best done during the warmer months, and although I do prefer the warmth, there is a wonderful world awaiting those who brave the winter. The landscape takes on a whole new look which makes a trail you may have gone on before feel entirely new. Whenever I go out for a chilly hike, I make sure I bundle up with a good base layer, which makes the freezing temperatures a breeze. So grab yours and let's take a look at the Long Point Trail in New River Gorge National Park in the winter!  

Seeing the New River Bridge is quite a humbling experience. Standing 876 feet above the glorious New River Gorge, this bridge is one of the most impressive structures I have ever seen. The Long Point Trail concludes with one of the best views of the bridge as you see the whole span of this creation. During the colder months, you exchange the bright green cliff sides for the monochrome colors of winter, but if you time it just right you can see the gorge covered in a fresh layer of snow. The view is nothing short of magical. 

The trail itself is a fairly simple 3-mile out-and-back hike that is fairly flat until the very end. So if you are looking for a good walk in the woods as the branches sway under the weight of newly fallen snow, you are in for a treat. The thick forest is hushed under the snow and can be an extremely peaceful place to hike. 

Eventually, you will get to the ledge where you will get the view of the bridge. The edge drops off significantly on either side, so if it is icy, make sure to be careful where you step. If you are afraid of heights then there is no need to find yourself in a dangerous place to get the view. The rock outcropping is fairly bare, which will allow you to see this breathtaking view without having to get close to the ledge. Seeing the fog roll in during a snowstorm is a mesmerizing dance making the scene even more appealing.

Although the bridge will be the focal point for many people, and for good reason, don’t forget to enjoy the view of the gorge. The way the river snakes through the mountains is incredible and something you can’t miss when you visit this national park. 

It may be frigid to see views like this but is 100% worth it. Good things come to those who step outside and don’t let the weather stop them from having a good hike. So I would encourage you to not just take this hike in the warmer months but come back when the snow starts to fall too.

Hiking in West Virginia can be even better when you experience views like this. The gorge in a fresh layer of snow and a quiet walking path through the forest is certainly worth breaking out of your cabin fever for. We really enjoyed our time at New River Gorge National Park but you simply can’t leave the park without also seeing the Grandview. Even if you have to bundle up in your REI base layer, it's worth it.