Allegheny Trail Explorer
Your comprehensive guide to West Virginia's longest named hiking trail, traversing the scenic Allegheny Mountains.
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Trail Overview
Length and Scope
The Allegheny Trail is a significant hiking pathway spanning approximately 330 miles (530 km). It winds through the majestic Allegheny Mountains, primarily located in West Virginia, with a small portion extending into western Virginia. It holds the distinction of being the longest named trail within West Virginia, surpassed only by the 4-mile segment of the Appalachian Trail that traverses the state near Harpers Ferry.
Geographic Context
The trail's northern terminus is situated at the MasonโDixon line, marking the boundary between West Virginia and Pennsylvania. Its southern end connects with the renowned Appalachian Trail on Peters Mountain, located on the VirginiaโWest Virginia border. This strategic positioning makes it a key component of the region's extensive trail network.
Primary Use
Designed and maintained for the dedicated hiker, the Allegheny Trail offers a challenging and rewarding experience for those seeking immersion in the natural beauty of the Appalachian region. Its length and varied terrain cater to both long-distance backpackers and section hikers.
Trail Genesis
Conception and Foundation
The vision for the Allegheny Trail began to form in 1971 following a chance meeting between Nicolas B. Lozano and Robert (Bob) Tabor Jr. at an Izaak Walton League event. Their shared dream of a trail connecting the Appalachian Trail to the West VirginiaโVirginia border sparked the initiative. This led to the founding of the West Virginia Scenic Trails Conference in October 1971, later renamed the West Virginia Scenic Trails Association (WVSTA).
Development and Marking
Scouting for potential routes commenced in Pocahontas County, West Virginia, in July 1971. Trail flagging began in August 1973, starting from Peters Mountain towards the Salt Sulphur Springs Turnpike. In July 1974, the original routing and blaze color were selected. Initially considered was International Orange, but due to its designation for off-road vehicles, the color yellow was chosen instead. The first official agreement concerning the trail was signed in August 1975 between the WVSTA and the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources, paving the way for further agreements and trail development.
Navigating the Path
Overall Alignment
The Allegheny Trail stretches across significant portions of West Virginia, connecting the northern border with Pennsylvania to the southern border with Virginia via the Appalachian Trail. It is meticulously managed and administered by the volunteer organization, the West Virginia Scenic Trails Association (WVSTA).
Key Connections
The trail serves as a vital link within the broader hiking network. Its northern terminus is clearly marked near Bruceton Mills at the MasonโDixon line. The southern terminus seamlessly integrates with the Appalachian Trail atop Peters Mountain, offering thru-hikers and section hikers extended route possibilities.
Detailed Sections
Section One
This section commences at the northernmost point of the Allegheny Trail, near Bruceton Mills, at the West VirginiaโPennsylvania border (MasonโDixon line). It extends approximately 95.1 miles southward, concluding at the stables parking lot in Blackwater Falls State Park. The route was rerouted to bypass the Army National Guard firing range at Camp Dawson.
Section Two
Beginning at Blackwater Falls State Park, Section Two proceeds roughly southwest for about 91.8 miles. It terminates at the parking area for the Cass Scenic Railroad. A notable challenge within this section is the lower Glady Fork area, which has experienced significant washouts and flash floods, necessitating an alternate high-water route that is typically available from late fall through early summer.
Section Three
This section covers 64.26 miles, starting from the Cass Scenic Railroad parking lot and ending at an intersection in Greenbrier County, where the trail meets County Road 14. A temporary rerouting onto Beaver Lick Mountain Road was implemented in January 2022 to accommodate a logging project near The Dock on Meadow Creek, which is expected to last up to three years.
Section Four
Section Four is divided into two subsections, separated by a 33.3-mile road walk. The total mileage, including the road walk, is approximately 69.95 miles, with the trail subsections themselves totaling 36.65 miles. The northern subsection runs 15.63 miles from the terminus of Section Three to Interstate 64. The southern subsection is a 21.02-mile hike from the south trailhead at Hanging Rock to the trail's southern terminus on Peters Mountain, where it meets the Appalachian Trail at the West VirginiaโVirginia border.
Potential Hazards
Severe Weather
Hikers on the Allegheny Trail should be prepared for severe weather conditions, which are common in the mountainous terrain of West Virginia. This can include sudden thunderstorms, heavy rain, high winds, fog, and potentially snow or ice, especially during transitional seasons. It is crucial to check weather forecasts before and during your hike and to be equipped with appropriate gear for changing conditions.
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Important Disclaimers
Content and Safety Information
This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is derived from publicly available data, primarily the Wikipedia article on the Allegheny Trail, and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date. It is not a substitute for official trail guides, maps, or current condition reports.
This is not professional hiking or safety advice. The information provided herein is not a substitute for professional outdoor recreation consultation, safety planning, or navigation expertise. Always consult official trail resources, experienced guides, and current weather forecasts before embarking on any hike. Hikers are responsible for their own safety, preparedness, and adherence to Leave No Trace principles.
Trail Conditions: Trail conditions can change rapidly due to weather, maintenance, or natural events. Always check the latest conditions from reliable sources before your trip.
Preparedness: Ensure you have adequate supplies, including water, food, navigation tools (map, compass, GPS), first-aid kit, appropriate clothing, and shelter. Inform someone of your hiking plans and expected return time.
The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein. Hike responsibly and safely.