Glade Creek Trail in New River Gorge National Park

Glade Creek Trail

The Glade Creek Trail an idyllic 5.6-mile (9.01 km) hike that blends beautiful cascading waterfalls, historic remnants, and a peaceful creekside stroll.

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Glade Creek Trail Details

The Glade Creek Trail offers an idyllic 5.6-mile (9.01 km) hike that blends beautiful cascading waterfalls, historic remnants, and a peaceful creekside stroll. This moderate trail is perfect for hikers and bikers of all abilities, making it a popular destination for families and nature lovers seeking a scenic escape. The trail follows an old narrow-gauge railroad route along Glade Creek, offering an enjoyable, moderate-grade hike. As you walk, you'll be immersed in the serene beauty of the creek, which winds through the lush forest, with several small waterfalls and cascades dotting the landscape. The sound of rushing water and the sight of sparkling pools make this trail a peaceful retreat, especially for those who enjoy stopping to explore the natural beauty around them. Along the way, the Glade Creek Trail offers several opportunities for adventure. The trail is also popular with anglers, as the lower section of Glade Creek is a Catch & Release trout stream. So, don't forget your fishing rod for a relaxing afternoon by the water. In addition to its natural appeal, the trail is home to a footbridge that crosses Glade Creek three miles from the New River, providing a nice vantage point for photographs and a brief rest stop. Though generally easy to follow, the trail can be narrow and rocky in sections, especially after crossing the footbridge. Be cautious if the creeks are running high, as there's currently a washout at the junction with the Kates Falls Trail. Whether you're hiking, biking, or fishing, the Glade Creek Trail offers a perfect way to explore the hidden wonders of New River Gorge.

Difficulty

Open

Distance

5.6 miles

Estimated time

Region

N/A

Nearby Parks Around Glade Creek Trail

Compare nearby parks around Glade Creek Trail when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.

168.3 mi away

Shenandoah

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Congaree

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Mammoth Cave

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414.9 mi away

Indiana Dunes

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Nearby Points of Interest Around Glade Creek Trail

Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Glade Creek Trail while the map context is still fresh.

0.0 mi away

Glade Creek / Hamlet

Glade Creek / Hamlet is one of New River Gorge's quietest but most fascinating historical stops.

0.0 mi away

Glade Creek Area

The Glade Creek Area offers visitors a delightful blend of natural beauty, history, and outdoor adventure.

0.1 mi away

Glade Creek Picnic Area

Looking for a picnic with a soundtrack of babbling water and rustling leaves? Welcome to Glade Creek Picnic Area, a quiet and scenic retreat nestled in New River Gorge & Preserve.

0.1 mi away

Glade Creek Trails

The Glade Creek area of New River Gorge and Preserve offers a peaceful and scenic retreat, where hikers can experience cascading waterfalls, lush forests, and the remnants of the region's industrial past.

2.4 mi away

Mill Creek and the Harrah Farm

Tucked deep within the lush wilderness of the park, Mill Creek and the Harrah Farm transport you to the rugged life of Appalachian settlers.