Glade Creek Trail

An easy hike along an abandoned railroad bed with numerous swimming holes and fishing opportunities.

Hiking Moderate

Distance: 17 km
Ascent: 343 m
Descent: 343 m
Duration: 4-5 hrs

Low Point: 379 m
High Point: 602 m
Gradient: 3˚

If you're searching for your own private swimming hole or a quiet riverside spot to cast a line, look no further than Glade Creek. Following an abandoned railroad bed along the river, this hike is sure to impress anyone in the family - including the dog! The abundance of unnamed cascades and small waterfalls make this one of the classic must-do hikes for anyone visiting New River Gorge.

Description

As an out-and-back, this trail gives you the option to hike as much, or as little, as you'd like. With two vehicles, shuttling the trail is an option, though a high-clearance, 4WD vehicle is needed to reach the upper trailhead. Mud can also be an issue, which is why most opt for the out-and-back from the campground.

The main (lower) trailhead is at the Glade Creek Campground, where Glade Creek Road ends. Whether you come from Beckley or Fayetteville, you have 7 miles on unpaved road after driving through Prince, but a 2WD vehicle is more than adequate, according to most sources.

For those planning to fish along Glade Creek, the lower section of the river is a WV Catch & Release trout stream. More information on fishing in New River Gorge can be found here.

NPS