The best walks and hikes in Little Beaver State Park
4.8
(19)
267
hikers
8
hikes
Hiking in Little Beaver State Park explores a 562-acre landscape in Raleigh County, West Virginia. The park's terrain features dense Appalachian forest, rolling hills, and paths that encircle the central 18-acre Little Beaver Lake. The trail network includes both gentle lakeside walks and more rugged routes through the woodlands, offering varied difficulty levels.
Best hiking trails in Little Beaver State Park
- The most popular hiking route is Little Beaver Lake loop from Little Beaver State Park, a 2.3 miles…
Last updated: July 8, 2026
6
hikers
3.66km
00:58
30m
30m
The Little Beaver Lake loop offers a wonderfully gentle hiking experience, tracing the shores of the 18-acre Little Beaver Lake within a dense Appalachian forest. You will enjoy continuous, serene…
5.0
(1)
10
hikers
21.2km
05:56
410m
410m
Step onto the Glade Creek Trail and discover a tranquil journey through the heart of New River Gorge National Park. This 13.2-mile (21.2 km) difficult hike follows an old railroad…
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10.7km
03:04
260m
260m
Kate's Plateau Trail offers a moderate 6.6-mile hike through primitive forests and wetlands in New River Gorge National Park & Preserve.
4.9
(7)
107
hikers
6.63km
02:12
80m
140m
The Grandview Rim Trail offers a journey through a mature mixed forest of hardwoods and rhododendrons, providing refreshing shade as you hike. The path is mostly a flat dirt track,…
4.9
(7)
107
hikers
6.63km
02:12
80m
140m
The Grandview Rim Trail offers a rewarding hiking experience through the New River Gorge National Park & Preserve, guiding you along a forested rim with stunning views. You'll traverse a…
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Tips from the Community
No water flow right now (September 2, 2024) but still interesting rock formations to see
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Small waterfall in a beautiful setting. Not overly spectacular but a good turning point for a hike. Attention: the branch path branches off a good 100m later (i.e. upstream) from the main path than shown on the map.
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For those desiring another loop through dense and beautiful forest, the Polls Plateau connector trail leads to Polls Plateau Loop Trail here.
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Though it's hard to single out specific spots along Glade Creek Trail for being more beautiful than others, this segment provides a lot of attractive opportunities to glimpse and hike alongside the creek.
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The wooden bridge that arches over Glade Creek makes an attractive background for a snack or rest spot near the creekside.
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Glade Creek Campground can only be reached by Glade Creek Trail, so if you'd like to camp away from RV's and motorized vehicles, this might be a great option for you. The trail spur that leads from Glade Creek Trail to the campground is also quite pretty.
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Small waterfall in a beautiful setting. Not overly spectacular but a good turning point for a hike. Attention: the branch path branches off a good 100m later (i.e. upstream) from the main path than shown on the map.
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Turkey Spur Overlook is at the end of the Grandview Rim Trail about 2.6 km (1.6 miles) from the Visitor Center lying atop a huge rock outcrop. It offers stunning views more than 300 m (almost 1,000 feet) above the New River. The National Park Service had improved the overlook’s wooden boardwalk in 2015 but it was burned in an arson attack a few months later. In partnership with Friends of New River Gorge National River funds were raised for reconstruction and the Overlook was reopened in June 2017.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed on the trails in Little Beaver State Park?
Yes, dogs are generally permitted in West Virginia state parks, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. It's always a good practice to check for the most current regulations on the official park website before your visit.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in the park?
Absolutely. The park offers several gentle walks perfect for families. A great option is the Beckley Mill Site loop from Beckley, an easy 3.7-mile (6 km) path that explores the area around a historic mill site near the park.
What kind of scenery can I expect on the trails?
The trails wind through a classic Appalachian landscape. Expect to see dense woodlands with hemlock, pine, and oak trees, rolling hills, and frequent scenic views of the 18-acre Little Beaver Lake. In spring and summer, the forest floor is often decorated with seasonal wildflowers.
Where can I find a more challenging hike?
For a longer and more demanding trek, consider the Glade Creek Trail — New River Gorge National Park & Preserve. This difficult 13.2-mile (21.2 km) route offers a rewarding experience for seasoned hikers.
What do other hikers think of the trails in Little Beaver State Park?
The area is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, the serene lakeside scenery, and the variety of trails that cater to different fitness levels.
Is there parking available at the trailheads?
Yes, Little Beaver State Park provides parking for visitors. The main park area, located at 1402 Grandview Rd, Beaver, WV, has numerous picnic sites and access points to the trail network, with parking available near the lake and other facilities.
Can I go hiking in the park during winter?
Hiking is possible year-round, but be prepared for winter conditions. Trails can become icy or snow-covered, so proper footwear with good traction is essential. A winter hike can be very peaceful, offering a different perspective of the park's landscape.
Are there any trails with good views?
While the park is more known for its intimate woodland and lakeside scenery than high-elevation vistas, many trails offer beautiful views of Little Beaver Lake. For a route that combines forest paths with scenic overlooks, try the Grandview Main Overlook – Castle Rock Trail loop from Piney View in the nearby New River Gorge area.
What other activities are available besides hiking?
Little Beaver State Park is a hub for various outdoor activities. The 18-acre lake is popular for fishing and boating, with paddleboats and kayaks available for rent seasonally. The park also has a 46-site campground, picnic areas, and a playground.
Are the trails suitable for mountain biking?
While the park is primarily known for hiking, some of the trails may be suitable for mountain biking. However, it's best to check with the park office for specific trail designations and rules, as some paths may be restricted to foot traffic only to prevent erosion and ensure safety.
Is camping available within the park?
Yes, Little Beaver State Park has a campground with 46 sites that accommodate both tents and RVs. The sites are equipped with modern amenities, making it a convenient option for those who want to stay overnight and explore the trails over multiple days.
Most popular routes in Little Beaver State Park
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