Sometimes the best views of wild, wonderful West Virginia are hiding right in plain sight – and that’s certainly true of the view from the top of Pinnacle Rock in Pinnacle Rock State Park. The view itself is spectacular – but many visitors to Pinnacle Rock miss it altogether because it requires traversing a hidden path up a steep staircase that winds its way up one side of this massive rock.

As you're driving along US Route 52 outside of Bramwell in Mercer County, West Virginia, it's hard to miss Pinnacle Rock State Park. Pinnacle Rock towers over the road, and visitors for decades have pulled over to admire this massive rock formation.
dsnow3 / Tripadvisor
What's easy to miss from the road, however, is the actual size of Pinnacle Rock. Sure, it's tall. But as this picture shows, it's also long. In fact, it's a 3,100 foot formation of sandstone that holds its own against the surrounding mountains.
Pinnacle Rock State Park Management / Tripadvisor
Here's a final thing that's easy to miss here: the Overlook Trail. This winding staircase leads up to the top of Pinnacle Rock, to an observation deck that offers a panoramic view of this beautiful, rugged portion of the Mountain State.
Pinnacle Rock State Park Management / Tripadvisor

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As you might guess based on the height of Pinnacle Rock, the climb to the top involves quite a number of stairs, so just be prepared for aching legs by the time you reach the observation deck!
Cristy / OIYS
But, other than the work required to gain so much elevation, it's a pleasant walk through a beautiful wood.
Cristy / OIYS
And the view is well worth the climb.
Pinnacle Rock State Park Management / Tripadvisor
So on your next visit to Pinnacle Rock State Park, after you've cooked your picnic on the charcoal grill, read the historical highway markers by the parking lot, taken advantage of the clean bathroom facilities, and admired the massive hulk of pinnacle rock from the base, don't miss the opportunity to head up to see it topside and take in the magnificent view.
Pinnacle Rock State Park Management / Tripadvisor

To see this view for yourself, follow the signs from the Pinnacle Rock State Park parking lot for the “Overlook Trail.” What’s your favorite view of West Virginia? Here’s another underrated one hiding in plain sight!

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Pinnacle Rock, West Virginia 24724, USA