Scenic Views & Adventure: The Best Dolly Sods Hikes

wvlcheadless on 2024-06-28

We’ve rounded up the best Dolly Sods hikes that all hikers should try. Dolly Sods—also known as Dolly Sods Wilderness—resides within the Allegheny Mountains of Monongahela National Forest. The area provides phenomenal views of West Virginia’s natural landscape, making these trails perfect for West Virginia fall foliage viewing and summer adventure.

The trails listed below range in difficulty from easy to difficult and length. But most are perfect for day hikes and only require your hiking gear and a will for adventure. No matter your skill level or preferences, you’ll have no problem finding the right Dolly Sods hiking trail to enjoy!

map of dolly sods hikes and trailsThe Top Dolly Sods Hiking Trails

Beaver Dam Trail

Distance: 0.7 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Max Elevation: 4,060 feet

At just 0.7 miles, Beaver Dam Trail is one of the shortest trails in Dolly Sods Wilderness. The hike is moderately trafficked and features beautiful wildflowers. Great for all skill levels, this trail is typically used for nature trips, walking, and birding during the warmer months. The trailhead begins at the northeast corner of Monongahela National Forest, eventually connecting to Dobbin Grade Trail. Dogs can also enjoy Beaver Dam Trail, but must remain on a leash.

Upper Red Creek Trail

Distance: 1.3 miles

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Max Elevation: 3,860 feet

Encompassing 1.3 miles of scenic hiking, Upper Red Creek Trail is an enjoyable, quick hike. The area is surrounded by lush forest and impeccable views of valleys and hills. Towards the north end of the hike, you’ll run into the Red Creek. This hike is great for all skill levels, with most of the hike traversing through the valley.

Harman Trail

Distance: 1.4 miles

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Max Elevation: 4,156 feet

Harman Trail is a connector between Blackbird Knob Trail and Rocky Ridge Trail. Encompassing 1.4 miles, Harman Trail is a handy loop for hikers. Attractions include rivers, creeks, and plenty of wildflowers like the mountain laurel.

Bear Rocks Trail

Distance: 2.4 miles

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Max Elevation: 4,072 feet

This easy to intermediate trail features many gorgeous plants, including wildflowers and fruit shrubs. Bear Rocks Trail is accessible year-round, making it a great hike for fall foliage viewing and summer hikes. Dogs are welcome but must be leashed. With little elevation and limited hiking hazards, this Dolly Sods hike is great for families. The trail connects with Raven Ridge Trail and Dobbin Grade Trail.

sunset view over dolly sods

Breathed Mountain

Distance: 2.5 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Max Elevation: 3,927 feet

This Dolly Sods hike boasts several creeks and river views, creating gentle sounds of rushing water. Breathed Mountain starts at Blackbird Knob and Big Stonecoal trailheads. The trail ends at Red Creek trail where hikers can either take Red Creek or loop back through Breathed Mountain. Dogs are allowed on Breathed Mountain Trail and do not have to be leashed.

Fisher Spring Run Trail

Distance: 2.5 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Max Elevation: 3,990 feet

Fisher Spring Run Trail is a great option for nature viewing. The trail is mostly cool and shady, providing beautiful views of West Virginia fall foliage as the leaves change in the fall. The trail is also located near a small downhill stream and runs past small creeks and waterfalls. The trail intersects with Rohrbaugh Trail and the Red Creek.

Take your next hiking adventure—check out the best places to stay in Monongahela National Forest.

Learn more about our cabins near Dolly Sods!

Rocky Ridge Trail

Distance: 3.2 miles

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Max Elevation: 4,156 feet

Sitting at an altitude of 3,930 feet and reaching a max elevation of 4,167 feet is the Rocky Ridge Trail within Dolly Sods Wilderness. For about 3.5 miles, hikers will follow the ridge which will provide some of the best views of the Dolly Sods Wilderness. This trail is considered easy to moderate and offers plenty of views and potential wildlife viewing. Rocky Ridge Trail connects with several other Dolly Sods hikes, including Blackbird Knob Trail and Harman Trail.

a hiker relaxing with a beautiful view of dolly sods

Rohrbaugh Trail

Distance: 3.6 miles

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

The Rohrbaugh Trailhead begins at the Dolly Sods picnic area in the southeast and winds its way north 3.6 miles towards Wildlife Trail and Fisher Spring Run. The trail features several scenic views, including beaver dams, flowing creeks, and lush meadows. Connect with either Wildlife Trail or Fisher Spring Run to extend this scenic hike. Rohrbaugh Trail is suitable for all skill levels.

Big Stonecoal Trail

Distance: 4.3 miles

Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult

Max Elevation: 3,902 feet

Big Stonecoal trail traverses 4.3 miles through thick forest, flowing springs, and other natural formations along the south end of Dolly Sods Wilderness. The trail follows Stonecoal Run for a large portion of the hike until it empties into Red Creek. This trail is suited for skilled hikers, with a higher difficulty than other Dolly Sods hikes. Dogs are allowed on Big Stonecoal Trail and don’t have to be leashed.

Blackbird Knob

Distance: 4.7 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Max Elevation: 4,067 feet

This longer hike boasts stops by some of Dolly Sods’ major attractions, including waterfalls, swimming holes, and beautiful vistas of the valleys and highlands. The trail features a little of everything. If you begin your hike from the east trailhead, you’ll eventually connect with the Rocky Ridge Trail. The west trailhead connects with Big Stonecoal and Breathed Mountain trailhead. Dogs are allowed on Blackbird Knob Trail but must be leashed.

red creek in dolly sodsRed Creek Trail

Distance: 6.4 miles

Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult

Max Elevation: 3,845 feet

Encompassing 6.4 miles from Red Creek trailhead to Blackbird Knob, Red Creek Trail is by the far the longest hike in Dolly Sods. Red Creek Trail boasts several scenic wonders, including waterfalls, flowing creeks, valleys, and more. Several other trails connect with Red Creek, including Big Stonecoal and Breathed Mountain. After 6.4 miles, Red Creek Trail connects with Blackbird Knob Trail. Due to the length of the trail and some difficult climbs, Red Creek Trail is cited as an intermediate to hard hike. Dogs can also use the trail but must be leashed.

Use the following Dolly Sods map to view other trails.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dolly Sods Hiking

How long of a hike is Dolly Sods?

The Dolly Sods Loop is about 23 miles, and how long it takes to hike that distance depends on the hiker, weather conditions, and other factors. Dolly Sods Wilderness is home to over 40 miles of hiking trails, with a range of individual hikes that take anywhere from half an hour to a few days to complete. 

What is the best loop in Dolly Sods?

The best loop in Dolly Sods is up to you! The most popular loops in Dolly Sods are Bear Rocks and Lions Head Loop and the Rocky Knob Loop. 

What is special about Dolly Sods?

Dolly Sods Wilderness in West Virginia is home to unique bog and heath ecotypes that are typical of areas much farther north than the Mountain State. The stunted red spruces, natural cranberry bogs and huckleberry fields, and sphagnum bogs that characterize Dolly Sods aren’t found elsewhere in the US, and are more common in southern Canada. 

Are there bears in Dolly Sods Wilderness?

There are absolutely bears in Dolly Sods Wilderness. They are typically shy and fearful of humans, but visitors to Dolly Sods should take all recommended precautions against bears, like carrying bear spray, locking food in an approved container, and staying vigilant while outdoors.  

What makes Dolly Sods so special for hiking?

Dolly Sods, or Dolly Sods Wilderness, is home to a unique ecosystem of bog and heath, rocky plains, and gorgeous vistas at elevations ranging from 2,500 to over 4,000 feet. Here, travelers will find several day hike trails that wind through unique plant communities and offer incredible mountain views.

What town is closest to Dolly Sods?

Petersburg, West Virginia is the closest town to Dolly Sods. Petersburg is also just 10 miles from Harman’s Luxury Log Cabins.

Explore West Virginia hiking opportunities around Dolly Sods Wilderness and book your stay in one of our West Virginia cabin rentals!

Private Yoga Class At Eagleview Lavender Farm

Carol Phillips on 2024-05-13

UNWIND & INHALE SERENITY:
Yoga Among the Lavender Fields

Breathe in the calming scent of lavender and stretch your body amidst a breathtaking landscape. Join us for a unique yoga experience held right in the heart of Eagleview lavender field!

Imagine this:
• Gentle breezes carrying the calming aroma of lavender as you flow through your practice.
• A vibrant sea of purple stretching as far as the eye can see, creating a truly serene environment.
• Deepening your connection with nature as you find peace and balance on your mat.

This class is perfect for:
• All levels of yoga practitioners, from beginners to experienced yogis.
• Anyone seeking a unique and relaxing way to practice yoga.
• Those who appreciate the beauty and calming effects of nature. 

Details:
Date: July 13, 2024
Time: 9:00 am  (Please arrive 15 minutes early to find your spot)
Location: Eagleview Lavender Farm 11639 Jordan Run Road, Maysville, WV
What to bring: Your yoga mat, a water bottle, and an open mind and heart to a truly special experience.
Class Fee $40. Includes yoga class, breakfast lite bites and 3 bundles of lavender you harvest. 100% of class tickets will be donated to Leave No Trace a conservation education and research organization. www.LNT.org 

Space is limited, so reserve your spot today!

We look forward to sharing this unforgettable yoga experience with you!

Register here for Yoga at Eagleview Farms- July 13, 2024

Seneca Rocks Hiking Trails & Nearby Trails

wvlcheadless on 2024-04-29

Seneca Rocks is a haven for outdoor adventure that includes hiking, biking, and rock climbing. All these trails are in or near Seneca Rocks, with some trails extending to the Smoke Hole region and Spruce Knob Wilderness of West Virginia. Each trail is rated by difficulty, making it easier for you to decide which hike is right for you.

With Seneca Rocks just a short drive from our West Virginia cabin rentals, guests will find plenty of opportunities for hiking and adventure.

Read on to find the best Seneca Rocks hiking trails near Harman’s Log Cabins:

Easy Seneca Rocks Hiking Trails

Enjoy the sights without too much strain on these easy Seneca Rocks hiking trails. 

Seneca Rocks in West Virginia.

Seneca Rocks Hiking Trail | INTERSECTION OF ROUTE 33 AND ROUTE 55

Distance: 1.3 miles (2.6 miles round trip)

The Seneca Rocks Hiking Trail rises to nearly 700 feet in elevation. An observation platform near the top of Seneca Rocks can be reached via the trail and provides a scenic overlook of the area. Although steep, the trail is typically categorized as easy so all ages can enjoy this quick hike. Seneca Rocks also offers some of the best rock climbing West Virginia has to offer.

Intermediate Seneca Rocks Hiking Trails

Looking for more of a challenge? Check out these intermediate hiking trails in Seneca Rocks. 

Redman Trail

Distance: 2 miles out and back

Located northeast of Seneca Rocks, Redman Trail is typically categorized as an intermediate in hiking difficulty and is a relatively short hike at just 2 miles. The trail is an out and back and is regularly used for walking, bird watching, and hiking. Redman Trail provides serene views of the lush forest in the Smoke Hole region and reaches over 600 feet in elevation.

Stay at our cabins near Smoke Hole, WV to be near the best hiking in the state!

Aerial view of Spruce Knob, West Virginia.

Spruce Knob via Huckleberry Trail

Distance: 6 miles out and back

Ascending to over 1,000 feet in elevation, the Huckleberry Trail takes hikers from Seneca Creek to the summit of Spruce Knob. Huckleberry Trail winds through small clearings and forests and eventually reaches a ridge. The ridge is where hikers will find amazing vista views of Spruce Knob. This trail is rated as an intermediate hike. GPS can have a hard time with this area – download or print your map beforehand.

Chimney Top via Landis and North Fork Trails

Distance: 5 miles out and back

Located near Cabins, West Virginia and Harman’s Luxury Log Cabins, the Chimney Top trail is a hidden gem in West Virginia. Hikers will ascend nearly 2,000 feet before they’re presented with fabulous views and several overlooks that include the North Fork of the Potomac River. This trail is classified as intermediate because of its steep climb. Chimney Top trail is part of the northern portion of the North Fork Mountain Trail.

Red Creek Trail | Dolly Sods Wilderness

Distance: 12.3 miles out and back

Red Creek Trail takes hikers through lush forest and along Red Creek near Davis, West Virginia. The trail begins in Dolly Sods Wilderness in Laneville, West Virginia just west of Seneca Rocks. The trail features several campsites, many closer to the trailhead. The trail is rated from intermediate to advanced, with the trail climbing to nearly 1,400 feet. Hikers will eventually cross the stream and several other trails.

Stay at our cabins near Dolly Sods!

Seneca Creeks waterfall and pool in West Virginia.

Seneca Creek Trail/Forest Trail 515

Distance: 5 miles out and back

Located in the Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area, the cabins near Dolly Sods is one of the most traveled trails in the area. Seneca Creek Trail offers plenty of scenery including flowing waterfalls, streams, and swimming holes. Hikers will traverse through lush meadows and groves that boast a plethora of beautiful plant life. The trail is hiker and mountain bike friendly for its flat paths. The trail also has several creek crossings.

Advanced Hikes in Seneca Rocks

Challenge yourself with these advanced hiking trails in Seneca Rocks! 

North Fork Mountain Trail (NFMT)

Distance: 24 miles out and back

A challenging yet rewarding trail, the North Fork Mountain Trail is well-known for near-countless overlooks that provide amazing vista views of Monongahela National Forest. The trail winds its way to nearly 3,000 feet in elevation along the North Fork Mountain. Not for the faint of heart, this trail is classified as advanced in hiking difficulty.

Frequently Asked Questions About Seneca Rocks Hiking Trails

Take in the gorgeous views and challenge your hiking skills during your next trip to Seneca Rocks. Find answers to frequently asked questions from hikers like you below! 

How long does it take to hike Seneca Rocks Trail?

It takes most people almost two hours to hike the Seneca Rocks Trail, with variations depending on skill level and how many times you stop to see the sights, watch wildlife, or take photos. 

How hard is it to climb Seneca Rocks?

Climbers of all abilities can enjoy Seneca Rocks! There are over 375 mapped climbing routes in Seneca Rocks, with varying degrees of difficulty from the easiest (5.0) to the most challenging (5.12). 

Can you see Seneca Rocks without hiking?

You can see Seneca Rocks without hiking – you can enjoy the views from the Seneca Rocks Discovery Center. 

Find more hiking trails near Seneca Rocks and other things to do in the West Virginia mountains.

Yoga Retreat West Virginia: Wellness & Zen at Harman’s Luxury Log Cabins

wvlcheadless on 2021-08-18

Enjoy the best wellness event and yoga retreat West Virginia has to offer at Harman’s Luxury Log Cabins, located in beautiful Hopeville Canyon.

From September 17th to September 19th, 2021, Harman’s Luxury Log Cabins will host their second annual World Wellness Weekend. This one-of-a-kind health and wellness event is a weekend packed with FREE seminars and activities that promote a positive lifestyle through fitness, sports, health, and more.

Best of all, the activities happening over the weekend are just a short, scenic stroll away from our luxury log cabin rentals.

Find out more about what you can expect during World Wellness Weekend 2021 at Harman’s Luxury Log Cabins:

 

woman performing yoga on a yoga mat

Yoga Classes with a View

Led by professional yoga instructors, learn new yoga techniques that will strengthen the mind, body, and spirit. Classes are set amongst beautiful backdrops of West Virginia mountain peaks and a gently flowing stream that runs through the Harman’s Log Cabins property.

New yoga platforms will be highlighted across the property to promote a strong physical and mental outlook through movement. Our yoga class instructions and platforms for World Wellness Weekend 2021 are perfect for experienced yoga enthusiasts and new yoga students.

 

guests sitting around the campfireCampfires with Wine and Hot Tubs

Harman’s Log Cabins specializes in the great outdoors and that includes evenings by the campfire. Enjoy songs, socializing, and a drink or two around the campfire just steps from your luxury log cabin. Plus, each of our log cabins comes with its own private outdoor hot tub for peaceful evenings under the stars with friends.

 

Private Fly Fishing

Guests staying at Harman’s Luxury Log Cabins will enjoy two miles of private stream access and the best trophy trout fishing in West Virginia. On Saturday, September 18th, wellness guests will get to enjoy the best fly fishing in West Virginia just steps from their luxury log cabin. Rental equipment is available in our fly fishing shop. Whether you’re new to fly fishing or are an experienced angler, we invite everyone to put their best cast forward.

 

woman jogging outside at sunset

Hiking & Sightseeing

Guests will discover several hiking trails right on the Harman’s Log Cabins property. Some of the sites you can enjoy along our hiking trails include gorgeous views of the property from a spectacular rock cliff, a large, private pool along the North Fork River, and an easygoing hike along the North Fork River.

 

Nutrition For You Experiences

Learn the latest in clean cooking, nutrition, and nourishment with culinary demonstrations and tutorials during your stay at Harman’s Luxury Log Cabins. As a key component of wellness, these culinary presentations will highlight new dishes that: encourage healthier eating habits, are easy to prepare, and even easier to enjoy.

 

Year-Round Wellness

Whether you plan to visit for World Wellness Weekend or thinking of taking a mountain escape any time of the year, Harman’s is your go-to for a zen-like retreat in the beautiful West Virginia mountains. With so many outdoor activities available on-site and in the area, you can enjoy your own wellness retreat any time of the year when you visit Harman’s Log Cabins.

 

Harman’s Luxury Log Cabins has so much more in store for guests looking to maintain or begin a healthier lifestyle for 2021 and beyond! Learn more about World Wellness Weekend 2021 at Harman’s Luxury Log Cabins!