Autumn is probably the best time to go hiking in West Virginia. The weather is cooler, stormy days are uncommon, and of course, the fall foliage is stunning. If you're in the mood for just a short hike, these spots will provide incredible scenery without demanding your entire day.
1. Mill Creek Falls, Ansted
Start at the Hawks Nest Resort and take the tram down to the river. It's just a mile hike to reach this waterfall, and along the way you'll pass some remnants of an old mining town.
2. Summit Lake, Greenbrier County
There's a trail that goes all the way around this 43-acre lake, as well as other nearby trails that venture into the Monongahela National Forest.
3. Blackwater Falls State Park, Tucker County
There are a few different hikes in the park that take you to the main waterfall, or you can just take a short walk down the viewing platform.
4. Wine Cellar Park, Dunbar
It's a short hike to Anderson Lake in this charming city park. Those with handicapped parking permits can also stop by the Dunbar Recreation Center for access to a road that leads to parking right by the lake.
5. Bear Rocks, Grant and Tucker counties
The windcarved sandstone is surrounded by huckleberry and blueberry bushes that turn red in the autumn. A nearby parking area makes it easy to access incredible views in a short distance.
6. Harris Riverfront Park, Huntington
Take a walk along the river and enjoy the beautiful foliage this autumn.
7. New River Gorge Bridge, Fayetteville
This impressive bridge can be seen from just a short walk down a staircase at the visitor's center, or there are a few trails that lead to different views of the gorge.
8. Spruce Knob, Pendleton County
Take as long or as short of a hike as you'd like around the peak of Spruce Knob. There's a parking area at the top for convenience and incredible views from every angle.
9. Seneca Rocks, Pendleton County
It requires rock climbing techniques to get all the way to the top of this peak, but hikers can get most of the way there by taking a steep mile-and-a-half long trail.
10. Sandstone Falls, Summers County
It's just a short walk along a bridge to get a good view of these falls, or you can keep going and hike around the islands.
If hiking isn't your cup of tea, try this incredible drive that will show you West Virginia’s fall colors like never before.
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