Uncomplicated and enjoyable, hiking is a pastime you can do almost anywhere. A day trip away from West Virginia’s capital of Charleston, or a short drive from Virginia's transportation hub of Roanoke, get out and have some fun along the Highland Scenic Highway. Going beyond the typical, the byway snakes through 43 pristine miles of the enchanting Monongahela National Forest. Numerous tree species, dramatic elevation shifts, abundant wildlife, and over 500 miles of trails make this forest and byway a definite “must do” in the world of hiking.
The Highland Scenic Highway begins at Richwood, the only town on the entire byway. From here, head 17 miles east to the Falls of Hills Creek Scenic Area. Follow a paved, .75-mile trail down to the three stunning cascades that give this site its name. After the first 1700 feet, the trail becomes slightly more demanding as it turns to boardwalks and steep, sometimes slippery steps. All this will be well worth the effort when you see the lower falls, where the waters of Hills Creek tumble down from 63 incredible feet. This year-round trail, while beautiful in every season, is especially stunning in autumn when the leaves turn brilliant shades of red, yellow, and gold.
Take the byway farther east and find yourself amidst solitary, untouched terrain—you’ve reached the Cranberry Wilderness. True nature-lovers will rejoice in the 35,864 acres of the Monongahela National Forest that make up this unmistakably wild area. The 50 miles of hiking trails, while well maintained, offer minimal to non-existent trail markers and virtually no bridges at stream crossings. Plan ahead before embarking on these less-trafficked trails by checking weather reports and road conditions, especially in winter, because neither the byway nor the access roads to trailheads along the byway are snow-plowed. If you want to decompress by hiking in the great outdoors, this is an ideal place to do it.
You might be able to hike just about anywhere, but why hike anywhere when you can take a day trip and hike somewhere incredible! All along West Virginia’s Highland Scenic Highway, experience the magnificent Monongahela National Forest on some of the country’s best hiking trails. From delightful cascades to untamed wilderness, from paved paths to minimally marked trails, this byway is definitely somewhere worth visiting.
Fish For Sport or Fish to Relax on the Highland Scenic Highway
Highland Scenic Highway Overview