West Virginia is a mountainous state, and a forested one. In fact, according to some reports, West Virginia is the third most forested state in the nation! However, much of the old-growth forest in West Virginia has been logged, making it harder than you might expect to find a stand of virgin forest. There are a few left, though, and you explore one by hiking the Virgin Hemlock Trail on the edge of Chestnut Ridge Park near Coopers Rock State Forest. Come along as we explore this stunning natural environment that will leave you wanting for more!
Our adventure starts just outside of of the town of Bruceton Mills here in West Virginia.
It is here that you will find this old-growth forest containing trees that are over 300 years old along the Hemlock Trail (otherwise known as the Virgin Hemlock Trail).
This forested path loops through the hemlocks...
... then along a beautiful creek filled with pools and small waterfalls.
The 1.7-mile loop isn't very steep, but it does gain a little more than 200 feet of elevation.
Some of it goes through picturesque scenery including along a staircase.
As far as trails in West Virginia go, it's a quiet footpath, not usually busy with other hikers.
But those who do hike the Hemlock Trail in WV have nothing but good things to say about this beautiful part of the Mountaineer State.
This trail can be hiked year-round, and it is dog friendly.
But be careful in all seasons as portions of the trail can be wet and slick during inclement weather.
As in most old-growth forests, there's significant biological diversity on the forest floor under these virgin hemlock trees.
Come prepared to encounter a variety of verdant plant life such as mosses, ferns, wildflowers, undergrowth species, and more, in addition to the massive trunks and spires of these century-old trees.
The trailhead is located right off of Route 73 at the end of the pull-off used for parking, and it is marked with a sign.
Most experienced hikers prefer to travel counter-clockwise around this loop to start with the water views and then take advantage of the shade of the forest at the end of the hike rather than the beginning.
To double-check trail directions and current conditions, visit the Virgin Hemlock Trail page on AllTrails. You can also make a getaway of it by camping in the year-round campground that's also located in Chestnut Ridge Park! If you’d like to explore other trails in West Virginia, you can find some great hikes by checking out AllTrails+.
Have you ever been to this West Virginia trail? If so, what was your favorite part? We'd love to read about your experience in the comments section below!
If you’re still in the mood for more West Virginia adventures, take a look at this video about the abandoned town of Thurmond:
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