The best running trails in Preston County

Preston County offers a diverse landscape for runners, from relatively flat and well-maintained rail trails to rugged mountain paths with significant elevation changes. You'll find rolling hills, dense forests, and trails with panoramic views of the Cheat River Gorge, catering to various fitness levels and preferences.

Yes, Preston County has options suitable for beginners. The rail trails, such as the WV Northern Rail Trail, are generally flat and well-maintained, making them ideal for easy runs. For a specific easy route, consider the Running loop from MTA Camp Dawson - Kingwood, which is just under 3 miles with minimal elevation gain.

For a more challenging experience, Preston County's rugged mountains and dense forests offer routes with significant elevation. The Hess, Tebolt, & Miller Trail loop is a difficult 10.7-mile route with over 1,400 feet of elevation change. Another demanding option is the Coopers Rock Overlook – Coopers Rock Overlook loop from Coopers Rock State Forest, which covers over 10 miles with substantial climbs.

Absolutely! Preston County is known for its scenic beauty. Coopers Rock State Forest, partly located in the county, offers stunning canyon overlooks and trails with panoramic views of the Cheat River Gorge, such as the Raven Rock Trail. Cathedral State Park provides a unique experience running through one of West Virginia's largest old-growth forests with towering hemlocks. The Cranesville Swamp also offers a distinctive ecosystem with a boardwalk trail.

Yes, rail trails are a prominent feature in Preston County and are excellent for running. The WV Northern Rail Trail, running from Kingwood to Tunnelton, offers a 10-mile scenic greenway. The Deckers Creek Trail also has a trailhead in Masontown. These trails provide relatively flat, well-maintained surfaces, often with natural elements and historical signage.

For longer runs, the extensive trail networks in areas like Coopers Rock State Forest offer combined routes that can extend for many miles. The Hess, Tebolt, & Miller Trail loop is a good option at nearly 11 miles. Additionally, sections of the nearly 300-mile Allegheny Trail pass through Preston County, providing opportunities for very long runs or multi-day adventures.

Many trails in Preston County are suitable for families. The rail trails, with their flat and even surfaces, are particularly good for family outings. Smaller community parks like Brown's Park in Kingwood also offer walking trails. When choosing a route, consider the distance and elevation to match your family's activity level.

Generally, many outdoor trails in Preston County are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific park or trail regulations regarding leash laws. Coopers Rock State Forest, for example, typically allows dogs on trails as long as they are leashed. Rail trails are also usually welcoming to leashed pets.

Preston County offers beautiful running conditions throughout much of the year. Spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures and stunning scenery with blooming wildflowers or vibrant foliage. Summer can be warm, but the dense forests, like those in Cathedral State Park, offer cooler, shaded routes. Winter running is possible, but some trails may be affected by snow or ice, so checking conditions beforehand is advisable.

Yes, many of the popular running routes in Preston County are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Fike Hill loop from Fike Hill and the Coopers Rock Overlook loop from Coopers Rock State Forest. These circular routes are convenient for exploring the area without needing to retrace your steps.

Many popular trailheads in Preston County offer dedicated parking. For instance, the WV Northern Rail Trail is actively developing trailhead parks at both its Kingwood and Tunnelton ends. Coopers Rock State Forest has multiple parking areas for accessing its extensive trail system. For specific routes, checking the komoot tour details will often provide information on parking availability near the starting point.

Runners frequently praise Preston County for its diverse and scenic landscapes. The variety of terrain, from the accessible rail trails to the challenging mountain paths, is a major draw. Many appreciate the panoramic views, especially those overlooking the Cheat River Gorge, and the opportunity to run through unique natural areas like old-growth forests and boreal bogs. The well-maintained trails and the sense of being immersed in nature are also commonly highlighted.