The best walks and hikes in Preston County

Yes, the region offers several accessible trails perfect for a family outing. For a straightforward and rewarding walk, consider the Hoye-Crest (Maryland High Point) out & back. It's a relatively short trail that leads to the highest point in Maryland, located within the Monongahela National Forest.

Most trails in state forests like Coopers Rock State Forest are dog-friendly, provided your dog is kept on a leash. However, note that dogs are generally not permitted in Cathedral State Park to protect the sensitive old-growth ecosystem. Always check the specific regulations for the park or trail you plan to visit.

Preston County has many excellent loop trails. For a moderately challenging hike through the forest, the Henry Clay Furnace loop from Copper Beech is a great option. This route takes you through Coopers Rock State Forest and past a historic 19th-century iron furnace.

While many trails are easy or moderate, you can find more demanding hikes. The Clay Furnace Pond – Henry Clay Furnace loop offers a good workout with over 225 meters of elevation gain through varied woodland terrain.

Coopers Rock State Forest is famous for its incredible scenic overlooks of the Cheat River Gorge. While Raven Rock is popular, you can also get fantastic views on the Cheat View loop from Brookhaven. This trail provides a different but equally stunning perspective of the gorge.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the region's dense, quiet woodlands, the stunning views of the Cheat River Gorge, and the well-maintained trails that cater to various skill levels. The mix of natural beauty and historical sites is a frequently mentioned highlight.

Yes, the Allegheny Trail, a 300-mile trail that runs the length of West Virginia, passes through Preston County. This offers excellent opportunities for multi-day backpacking trips through the region's rugged and scenic backcountry. You can plan sections of the trail for shorter or longer adventures.

The diverse habitats support a variety of wildlife. In forests like Coopers Rock, you might spot white-tailed deer, squirrels, and numerous bird species. For a unique experience, the Cranesville Swamp Preserve offers a chance to see species more typical of northern climates due to its rare "frost pocket" ecosystem.

While Preston County is known more for its gorges and forests, you can find small cascades and waterfalls along its many creeks and streams, especially after rainfall. For more prominent waterfalls, the nearby Blackwater Falls State Park is a highly regarded destination just outside the county.

Coopers Rock State Forest is a very popular destination with several established parking areas. The main parking lot near the primary overlook and gift shop provides central access to many trails, including the Raven Rock Viewpoint loop. Arriving early is recommended, especially on weekends.

Cathedral State Park is a National Natural Landmark known for its ancient, old-growth hemlock forest. The trails here are generally gentle and wind through a majestic canopy of giant trees. The terrain is mostly flat with soft, needle-covered paths, making it an awe-inspiring and peaceful hiking experience.

There are nearly 20 designated hiking routes in Preston County on komoot, ranging from easy walks to more strenuous moderate trails. This network is part of a larger system that includes dozens of trails within Coopers Rock State Forest, Cathedral State Park, and local rail-trails.