Itineraries
Greenbrier Valley Scenic Loop
Journey Overview
Greenbrier Valley Scenic Loop is a three-day circuit from White Sulphur Springs through Marlinton and Durbin, challenging experienced adult hikers with West Virginia’s most rewarding backcountry trails. Hikers summit lookout towers, traverse virgin forests, and explore rail trail corridors on full-day outings through remote settings where cell service is limited to nonexistent. Designed for fit adults comfortable with moderate to challenging terrain, this loop delivers demanding trail mileage and authentic wilderness experiences in the Greenbrier Valley’s backcountry.
Best Times to Visit
Late May through early June and mid-September through mid-October offer optimal conditions.
- Wildflowers peak in late spring; fall foliage typically reaches its height at higher elevations in early to mid-October
- Summer temperatures at 3,000+ feet remain comfortable while the valleys warm up.
- Forest roads to remote trailheads are reliably passable; winter snow closes many access points.
- Clear weather windows are more common, maximizing spectacular long-range views from fire towers and ridgelines.
- Hunting seasons (fall) may limit access to some areas; check regulations before visiting.
Itinerary
Day 1: White Sulphur Springs to Marlinton
Ridge lines & River trails
Morning
Breakfast in White Sulphur Springs
Fuel up for a demanding day of hiking at one of the local options.
- Cook’s Country Kitchen: Down-home breakfast favorites including pancakes, country-fried steak, and freshly-made biscuits.
- Tootsie’s Place: Cute downtown cafe with delicious pastry options.
- Across the Board Game Cafe: Charming game store with quick breakfast bites and lattes.
- The Greenbrier Resort: Upscale breakfast options for families seeking a special experience
Greenbrier State Forest – Rocky Ridge Trail
Begin with the signature hike of Greenbrier State Forest. This challenging trail summits Kate’s Mountain (3,280 feet). The Rocky Ridge Trail ascends steeply along a ridgeline with outstanding Greenbrier Valley views.
- Distance: 2.1 miles out-and-back
- Elevation Gain: 800 feet
- Estimated Time: 1.5-2 hours
- Difficulty: Difficult (steep, sustained climb)
Midday
Lunch in White Sulphur Springs
Stop by the store to grab some picnic essentials or enjoy small-town eats in White Sulphur Springs.
- April’s Pizzeria: Serving classic, comforting pizzas and Italian-American favorites in a cozy, casual setting that’s popular with locals and visitors alike.
- Max on Main: Offers a varied menu of wood-fired pizzas, pasta, steak, and other fresh dishes in a welcoming space with a lively yet family-friendly vibe.
- The Lunch Box: A beloved local lunch spot known for handmade sandwiches, fresh salads, and sweets, perfect for a casual midday bite.
Drive to Droop Mountain Area
Head north on US-219, approximately 45 minutes to the Droop Mountain area.
Beartown State Park
Catch your breath with this short and easy scenic boardwalk trail that explores an otherworldly landscape of towering sandstone formations, deep crevices, and boulder-filled passages. A half-mile elevated boardwalk winds through the 300-million-year-old rock formations.
Beartown Boardwalk
- Distance: 0.5 miles loop
- Elevation Gain: 60 feet
- Estimated Time: 15-30 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
Afternoon
Watoga State Park
Option A: Ann Bailey Trail to Lookout Tower
Continue north to Watoga State Park (approximately 25 minutes) for an afternoon hike to the Ann Bailey Lookout Tower. Named for a Revolutionary War-era scout, this trail follows an old roadbed across Pyles Mountain and Workman Ridge to a historic fire tower offering sweeping views of the Greenbrier River Valley and surrounding highlands.
- Distance: 6 miles out-and-back
- Elevation Gain: 1,200 feet
- Estimated Time: 2.5-3.5 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Option B: Arrowhead Trail to Lookout Tower
This popular trail offers a moderately challenging route through diverse forest with good views. Highly rated by local hikers for its scenic quality and workout.
- Distance: 2.2 miles out-and-back
- Elevation Gain: 850 feet
- Estimated Time: 1-1.5 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
Option C: Greenbrier River Trail
Continue past Watoga for an early arrival in Marlinton. Stop by Greenbrier Bikes or Dirt Bean for an afternoon bike rental. With a downtown trailhead, either direction on the 78-mile rail trail will offer incredible views- but we recommend heading north for approximately 10 miles to see the historic Sharps Trestle Bridge and 500-foot-long tunnel!
GRT: Marlinton to Sharps Tunnel
- Distance: 20 miles out-and-back
- Elevation Gain: 100 feet
- Estimated Time: 2-2.5 hours
- Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
Night
Continue to Marlinton for Dinner
Drive north approximately 15 minutes on US-219 to Marlinton for a well-earned dinner.
Dining Options in Marlinton:
- Trailhead Pizza Company: Pizza and craft beer right next to a bike shop!
- Alfredo’s Greek & Italian: Casual Italian and Greek dishes, from pasta to pizza. Relaxed family atmosphere with outdoor seating that can also be ordered from the neighboring Old Mountain Tavern.
- Greenbrier Grille: Fill up on country classics with riverside dining and watch Marlinton’s iconic feathered friends wade in the water!
- Dari Land: Outdoor seating for ice cream, burgers, and other American classics.
- Mim’s Kitchen: Homecooked Mid-Century meals- Cafeteria Style. Fill up a plate and grab one of their signature sweet treats!
Lodging Options:
- Watoga State Park: Cabins and campgrounds within the park; CCC-era cabins offer historic charm.
- Vacation Rentals & B&Bs: Wide array of downtown rentals on the riverside.
- Greenbrier Grille and Lodge: Simple rooms above the restaurant with river views.
- Marlinton Motor Inn: Basic motel accommodations in town.
- Seneca State Forest: Rustic pioneer cabins and campground; about 20 minutes from Marlinton.
Day 2: Marlinton to Durbin
Forests and Former Firetowers
Morning
Early Breakfast in Marlinton and Pack Lunch
Start early to maximize hiking time. Pack a substantial lunch as the day’s destinations are remote.
- Dirtbean: Coffee shop and cafe with breakfast sandwiches and pastries.
- Greenbrier Grille and Lodge: Full breakfast menu including pancakes, eggs, and country favorites.
- Rivertown Cafe: Historic building with creative breakfast options and upstairs shopping.
Seneca State Forest
Option A: Thorny Mountain Fire Tower Loop
This rewarding loop climbs to the 65-foot Thorny Mountain Fire Tower, featured by National Geographic as one of the nation’s top places to embrace the wild. The route uses the Thorny Creek Trail along scenic Seneca Lake, then the Loop Road/Allegheny Trail, and descends the steep Fire Tower Trail. The historic tower offers 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding highlands.
- Distance: 4 miles loop
- Elevation Gain: 700 feet
- Estimated Time: 2-2.5 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate (Steep descent on Fire Tower Trail)
Option B: Hill Top and Little Mountain Loop
A longer option that combines several trails for experienced hikers who want to explore more of Seneca State Forest.
- Distance: 5 miles loop
- Elevation Gain: 900 feet
- Estimated Time: 3-4 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
Midday
Drive to Gaudineer Knob Scenic Area
Head north on WV-28, then south on US-250 to this exceptional natural area, approximately 30 minutes.
Gaudineer Knob Scenic Area
Drive south on US-250 toward Durbin, then continue on US-250 south approximately 20 minutes to this remarkable National Natural Landmark, which protects approximately 50 acres of virgin red spruce forest- trees that were standing when European settlers first arrived. The interpretive loop trail is one of two short 0.5-mile loops and winds through towering 300-year-old spruces with trunks over 40 inches in diameter. The quiet, cathedral-like atmosphere is magical for children, and interpretive signs explain the forest’s ecology and history. The second loop offers a magical experience with minimal elevation gain and a beautiful overlook at the midpoint.
Gaudineer Knob Scenic Interpretive Loop Trail
- Distance: 0.5-mile loop
- Elevation gain: 70 feet
- Estimated time: 10–15 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy (packed earth with some roots)
Gaudineer Knob Loop Trail
- Distance: 0.5-mile loop
- Elevation gain: 40 feet
- Estimated time: 10-15 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy (gravel path)
Afternoon
Option A: Smoke Camp Knob Trail
Continue to the Durbin area via US-250 north, parking at a small 2-3 car pull-off at the entrance of the Lake Buffalo Recreation Area. Near Durbin, this steep climb to a former fire tower site rewards hikers with expansive 180-degree views stretching to Spruce Knob and into Virginia. The trail ascends through the Rothkugel Plantation, an interpretive area documenting early-20th-century reforestation efforts. The overlook at the summit remains relatively unknown, offering a quiet alternative to more popular viewpoints.
- Distance: 4 miles out-and-back
- Elevation Gain: 1,350 feet
- Estimated Time: 1.5-2 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging (very steep sections)
Option B: West Fork Rail Trail
Located in downtown Durbin, the West Fork Rail Trail is a scenic rail-trail that follows the gentle grade of an old railroad along the West Fork of the Greenbrier River between Durbin and Glady, offering about 22 miles of relatively easy terrain perfect for hiking, biking, and exploring forested river valleys. The trail winds through peaceful woodlands and river bottoms, making it a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts seeking long, uninterrupted stretches of nature, wildlife viewing, and quiet backcountry adventure.
- Distance: Variable; 22-Mile point-to-point
- Elevation Gain: Minimal
- Estimated Time: Variable; 1.5-2 hours
- Difficulty: Easy
Option C: East Fork Rail Trail
With a trailhead at Island Campground, this remote route follows the East Fork of the Greenbrier River, passing through hemlock and pine stands and numerous small waterfalls. While you’re unlikely to complete the full out-and-back unless you plan on setting up camp at Abe’s Run dispersed campground, the trail offers beautiful valley views and interesting rock formations hidden from most hikers.
- Distance: Variable; 8-Mile point-to-point
- Elevation Gain: 450 feet
- Estimated Time: Variable; 1.5-2 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
Night
Dining Options:
- Station 2 Restaurant: Comfort food and local favorites in a converted mercantile building decorated with firefighter memorabilia.
- Rustic Roots Bar & Grill: Locally inspired American bar favorites in a family-friendly atmosphere.
Lodging Options:
- Station 2 Motel: Simple rooms above the restaurant; includes breakfast.
- Castaway Caboose: Reserve your own private, beautifully restored traincar in Durbin.
- Cass Scenic Railroad Company Houses: Restored two-story vacation cottages sleeping 4-14 guests; available year-round
- Vacation rentals: Several cabins and home rentals are available in the Durbin area
- East Fork Campground: Developed private campground in Downtown Durbin with riverside access and amenities.
- Island & Lake Buffalo Campgrounds: Remote Forest Service campgrounds 10 minutes outside Durbin, offering a quiet night under the stars.
Day 3: Durbin to White Sulphur Springs
lick loop and the lake side
Morning
Early Start from Durbin
Begin early to allow time for the day’s challenging hikes. Pack lunch and plenty of water.
- Simply Sweet Cafe: Breakfast sandwiches, biscuits and gravy, signature lattes, and fresh-baked treats.
- Station 2 Restaurant: Full breakfast menu including pancakes, eggs, and country-style meals.
Optional: Green Bank Observatory Visit
For a morning rest option before the day’s hikes, visit the Green Bank Observatory (approximately 25 minutes south). The Science Center opens at 9:30 a.m. with free exhibits, optional guided tours, and over a dozen easy trails on the grounds.
Midday
Continue on WV-28 from Greenbank, following WV-92 south at the Dunmore intersection.
Two Lick Loop Trail
A roughly 4.7-mile forested loop near the Pocahontas Campground that offers an easy, low-traffic hike through quiet woods with gentle climbs and a few small stream crossings. The trail offers a peaceful way to experience shaded solitude in the forest and can be extended by linking to the adjacent Two Lick Bottom Trail for a longer outing.
- Distance: 4.0-mile loop
- Elevation Gain: 500 feet
- Estimated Time: 1.5-2 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
Afternoon
Option A: Anthony Creek Trail
Head southwest to Blue Bend Recreation Area (approximately 30 minutes) for a final afternoon hike. The Anthony Creek Trail offers streamside walking through scenic forest along a stocked trout stream at the edge of the Big Draft Wilderness Area. Feel free to hike as long or as short as needed.
- Distance: Variable; 8.0 mile point-to-point
- Elevation Gain: Variable; 1300ft
- Estimated Time: 2-3 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
Option B: Lake Sherwood Trail
Continue to Lake Sherwood (approximately 20 minutes) for a scenic loop around the 165-acre lake with excellent ridge views. At the end of your hike, cool off with a quick jump in Sherwood’s beach area.
- Distance: 3.5 miles loop
- Elevation Gain: 100 ft
- Estimated Time: 1.5-2 hours
- Difficulty: Easy
Night
Return to White Sulphur Springs
Complete the circuit with a drive south to White Sulphur Springs, approximately 30 minutes from Lake Sherwood.
Dining Options:
- Max on Main: Locally-sourced dishes and craft beer in renovated downtown space.
- Gustard’s Bistro: Upscale bistro cuisine with French influences.
- The Varsity Bar & Grill: American favorites in a welcoming atmosphere.
MAP
Planning Notes
Navigation & Cell Service
Cell service is limited to nonexistent throughout much of this route, particularly around Green Bank (within the National Radio Quiet Zone), Seneca State Forest, and remote highland areas. Download offline maps before departing and carry paper maps for backcountry areas. GPS devices that do not emit radio signals are permitted at Green Bank Observatory.
Weather Considerations
Higher-elevation areas experience significantly cooler temperatures and more frequent precipitation than surrounding valleys. Conditions can change rapidly; bring layers regardless of season. The Greenbrier Valley floor sits around 2,000 feet elevation, while destinations like Lake Sherwood (2,600 feet), Watoga State Park, and Gaudineer Knob reach 3,000+ feet.
Seasonal Considerations
Beartown State Park boardwalk is open April through October only (ice and snow hazard in winter). Cass Scenic Railroad operates May through October with special holiday trains in December. Swimming facilities at Lake Sherwood and Watoga State Park operate Memorial Day through Labor Day. Many restaurants and attractions in smaller communities operate limited hours or close seasonally; call ahead to confirm.
Road Conditions
Main routes (US-219, US-250, WV-28/92) are paved and well-maintained. Some destinations require travel on secondary roads that may be narrow and winding. Forest Service roads to Lake Sherwood and other recreation areas are generally passable for standard vehicles in good weather but may be challenging in winter conditions.
Wildlife
Black bears are present throughout this region; practice proper food storage and leave no trace. The area supports white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and various bird species. Timber rattlesnakes occur in rocky areas at lower elevations; watch where you step on the trail. Watoga State Park and Calvin Price State Forest are designated International Dark Sky Parks, offering exceptional stargazing.
Leave No Trace
Many trails pass through sensitive ecosystems or protected natural areas. Stay on established trails, pack out all trash, and respect wilderness regulations. The old-growth forest at Gaudineer Scenic Area is particularly fragile; remain on the trail to avoid damaging root systems and understory vegetation.