Greenbrier River Trail, Monongahela National Forest

As someone who loves hiking, I highly recommend the Greenbrier River Trail, located in the heart of the Monongahela National Forest. This 78-mile trail boasts some of the most picturesque hiking experiences one can have, as it runs parallel to the stunning Greenbrier River, weaving through verdant forests, undulating hills, and quaint little towns. Whether you’re an avid hiker seeking a challenging adventure or a novice looking for a leisurely stroll, the Greenbrier River Trail caters to all hiking levels. Let’s delve deeper into this remarkable trail and explore all the wonders it has to offer.

Trail Highlights

Some of the the highlights of this trail are:

  • The trail follows the scenic Greenbrier River for 77 miles
  • It passes through several small towns and historic sites
  • The trail is relatively flat and easy to hike or bike
  • Wildlife sightings are common, including deer, black bears, and bald eagles
  • The trail is surrounded by lush forests and wildflowers
  • There are several access points and campgrounds along the trail
  • The trail is open year-round and offers different experiences in each season
  • The trail is part of the American Discovery Trail, a coast-to-coast hiking and biking route
  • The trail is also popular for fishing and kayaking on the Greenbrier River
  • The trail offers stunning views of the river and surrounding mountains.

Total distance: 78 miles (125km)

Elevation gain: 2950ft (901m)

Difficulty: 1/5

Child friendly?

The Greenbrier River Trail is a great option for families looking for a longer, but still relatively easy hike. The trail is a converted rail trail, so it is mostly flat and well-maintained. It offers beautiful views of the Greenbrier River and the surrounding mountains. The trail is also very accessible, with several access points and parking areas along the way. Families can choose to hike the entire 78-mile trail or just a portion of it, making it a flexible option for different skill levels and time constraints.

This is one of my favorite trails and one of the most flexible options for hiking with kids in the Monongahela forest.

If you do want to do the whole trail with children, think about breaking it into manageable daily distances and plan for the number of days accordingly.

Local Campgrounds

Camping along the Greenbrier River Trail is a great option for outdoor enthusiasts. The best time of year to camp in this area is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny. The trail offers stunning views of the river and surrounding mountains, making it a perfect spot for hiking, fishing, and kayaking. The weather in this area can be unpredictable, so it’s important to come prepared with appropriate gear for rain or cooler temperatures. Overall, camping along the Greenbrier River Trail is a wonderful way to experience the beauty of West Virginia’s wilderness.

1. Watoga State Park Campground located near the southern end of the trail, this campground offers tent and RV sites, as well as cabins and a variety of recreational activities.

2. Greenbrier River Campground situated along the river and trail, this campground offers tent and RV sites, as well as cabins and access to fishing and kayaking.

3. Marlinton Campground located in the town of Marlinton, this campground offers tent and RV sites, as well as cabins and access to nearby restaurants and shops.

4. Riverside Cabins and RV Park located near the northern end of the trail, this campground offers tent and RV sites, as well as cabins and access to fishing and kayaking on the Greenbrier River.

5. Cranberry Campground located near the middle of the trail, this campground offers tent and RV sites, as well as access to hiking trails and scenic views of the Cranberry Wilderness.

In addition to hiking, there are many other ways to discover this beautiful wildness. If you are planning a trip to Greenbrier River Trail be sure to consider some of the following:

Other Activities

In addition to hiking, there are many other ways to discover this beautiful wildness. If you are planning a trip to Hoye Crest, be sure to consider some of the following:

  • Hiking
  • Biking
  • Fishing
  • Canoeing/kayaking
  • Camping
  • Wildlife watching
  • Picnicking
  • Horseback riding
  • Geocaching
  • Rock climbing
  • Swimming
  • Tubing/rafting on nearby rivers
  • ATV riding on designated trails
  • Snowshoeing/cross-country skiing in winter months.

Greenbrier River Trail FAQs

Are dogs allowed? Yes, dogs must be kept on a leash at all times on the Greenbrier River Trail.

Is the trail well signed? Yes, the Greenbrier River Trail is well signed.

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