The Greenbrier River Trail

The Greenbrier River is located in southeastern West Virginia and winds through Pocahontas, Greenbrier and Summers counties, eventually flowing into the New River in Hinton.   Along the river used to lie countless miles of railroad tracks which have now been converted into Rails-to-Trails hiking/biking paths.  If you are looking for a flat, scenic, mostly shaded journey into the wilds of West Virginia, you should stop by the Greenbrier River Trail.  You will be in for a treat involving all senses as you tread along the gravel pathway meeting joggers, mountain bikers, fellow hikers and occasionally a group on horseback.  The trail is kid and pet friendly and easily accessible from many spots stretching from Cass to Caldwell; approximately 80 miles.  Be sure to check out the trail map before you go here.

After a lazy Sunday morning at home, we decided to put on our hiking shoes and set out on a nice family walk with our son and dog.  Normally we drive to Caldwell and walk for a few miles but today we wanted a change of scenery.  This time we chose the Anthony area to begin our hike.  Since the area had been hit with a lot of rain recently, the river below was cloudy and swift.  Along the trail, which was mostly deserted, we saw areas with huge outcroppings of rock with moss and ferns at their feet, chipmunks darting around under the leaves that had fallen on the forest floor and overhead the birds were chirping and fluttering about.  It felt as if we were the only ones on the trail and it was our job to enjoy all that nature had provided us.  There were several pathways which led to the river below, which we carefully explored.  Several spots were earmarked as potential fishing locations, by my husband.  I could tell how much he wished he had brought his fishing pole!

Photos from the Greenbrier River Trail:

We enjoyed our hike and the quiet time it provided.  The Greenbrier River Trail is a great way to get in some exercise with the family or have a quiet, reflective time, one-on-one with mother nature.

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