The West Virginia Blue Ridge Mountains are one of the most breathtaking regions in the United States, offering scenic landscapes, secluded trails, and hidden waterfalls that many travelers overlook. These mountains, stretching through West Virginia, Tennessee, Virginia, and North Carolina, are not only famous for their towering peaks but also for the hidden gems that are tucked away from the well-worn tourist paths. Whether you’re seeking secret overlooks, peaceful hiking trails, or unexplored waterfalls, this guide will reveal the best-kept secrets of the West Virginia Blue Ridge Mountains.
Table of Contents
- Why the West Virginia Blue Ridge Mountains Are Full of Secrets
- Hidden Hiking Trails and Overlooks
- Devil’s Courthouse – A Hidden Overlook with a Mythical Past
- Hawksbill Mountain – The Most Underrated 360-Degree Viewpoint
- The Great Channels – A Natural Rock Maze in West Virginia
- Hidden Waterfalls of the West Virginia Blue Ridge
- Crabtree Falls – The Tallest Waterfall East of the Mississippi
- Glen Falls – A Three-Tiered Waterfall Without the Crowds
- Apple Orchard Falls – A Scenic Retreat in West Virginia
- FAQs
- Final Thoughts
West Virginia Blue Ridge – Hidden Trails, Waterfalls & Overlooks
The West Virginia Blue Ridge Mountains are one of the most breathtaking regions in the United States, offering scenic landscapes, secluded trails, and hidden waterfalls that many travelers overlook. These mountains, stretching through West Virginia, Tennessee, Virginia, and North Carolina, are not only famous for their towering peaks but also for the hidden gems that are tucked away from the well-worn tourist paths. Whether you’re seeking secret overlooks, peaceful hiking trails, or unexplored waterfalls, this guide will reveal the best-kept secrets of the West Virginia Blue Ridge Mountains.
Why the West Virginia Blue Ridge Is a Hidden Gem for Explorers
The West Virginia Blue Ridge offers a range of outdoor experiences that you won’t find in more crowded destinations. Many of its trails, waterfalls, and mountain towns are virtually untouched, allowing travelers to explore nature in its purest form.
Secret Hiking Trails and Overlooks in the West Virginia Blue Ridge
Devil’s Courthouse – A Hidden Overlook with a Mythical Past
Located along the West Virginia section of the Blue Ridge Parkway, Devil’s Courthouse offers an epic view without the usual crowds.
- Why it’s a hidden treasure: A short but steep 0.5-mile hike leads to one of the best panoramic views in the region.
- Best time to visit: Sunrise or sunset for fog-covered peaks; Autumn for breathtaking fall colors.
- Google Maps Location: Devil’s Courthouse on Google Maps
Hawksbill Mountain – The Most Underrated 360-Degree Viewpoint
For one of the best panoramic views in the West Virginia Blue Ridge, hike to Hawksbill Mountain.
- Why it’s a hidden treasure: Unlike other popular overlooks, Hawksbill Mountain remains quiet and uncrowded.
- Best time to visit: Fall for golden autumn foliage, or early morning for a peaceful sunrise.
- Google Maps Location: Hawksbill Mountain on Google Maps
The Great Channels – A Natural Rock Maze in Virginia
For a unique adventure in the West Virginia Blue Ridge Mountains, explore The Great Channels, a maze of sandstone formations.
- Why it’s a hidden gem: A natural rock labyrinth that remains virtually undiscovered.
- Best time to visit: Spring and fall, when temperatures are ideal for hiking.
- Google Maps Location: The Great Channels on Google Maps
Hidden Waterfalls of the West Virginia Blue Ridge
Crabtree Falls – The Tallest Waterfall East of the Mississippi
Why visit? A 1,200-foot cascading waterfall, far less crowded than other famous waterfalls in the Blue Ridge.
- Google Maps Location: Crabtree Falls on Google Maps
Glen Falls – A Three-Tiered Waterfall Without the Crowds
- Why it’s a hidden paradise? Glen Falls features three beautiful tiers and is often overlooked by visitors.
- Best time to visit: Summer for the cool hike and Fall to see the surrounding foliage.
- Google Maps Location: Glen Falls on Google Maps
Apple Orchard Falls – A Scenic Retreat in West Virginia
Why visit? A 200-foot waterfall in a remote setting surrounded by wildflowers and breathtaking scenery.
- Google Maps Location: Apple Orchard Falls on Google Maps
FAQs – Hidden Gems in the West Virginia Blue Ridge Mountains
Q1: What are the best hidden hiking trails in the West Virginia Blue Ridge Mountains?
A: Some of the best hidden hiking trails include:
- Hawksbill Mountain Trail – Offers 360-degree panoramic views with fewer crowds.
- The Great Channels – A unique rock maze hidden deep in the mountains.
- Devil’s Courthouse Trail – A short but rewarding hike leading to breathtaking overlooks.
Q2: What is the best time to visit the West Virginia Blue Ridge Mountains?
A: The best seasons for exploring hidden gems in the West Virginia Blue Ridge Mountains are:
- Spring (March-May) – Perfect for wildflowers, waterfalls, and comfortable hiking weather.
- Fall (September-November) – Offers vibrant autumn foliage and stunning mountain views.
Q3: Are there any secret waterfalls in the West Virginia Blue Ridge Mountains?
A: Yes! Some lesser-known waterfalls include:
- Glen Falls – A three-tiered waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.
- Apple Orchard Falls – A peaceful retreat with a 200-foot cascading waterfall.
- Crabtree Falls – One of the tallest waterfalls east of the Mississippi, yet surprisingly uncrowded.
Q4: What are the best scenic overlooks in the West Virginia Blue Ridge Mountains?
A: Some stunning yet hidden overlooks include:
- Devil’s Courthouse Overlook – A less-visited but breathtaking mountain viewpoint.
- Hawksbill Mountain Summit – One of the best panoramic views in the entire Blue Ridge region.
- Craggy Gardens Overlook – A colorful wildflower-filled summit with spectacular sunset views.
Q5: What are the best small towns in the West Virginia Blue Ridge that most people don’t know about?
A: If you love quaint mountain towns, be sure to visit:
- Lewisburg, WV – A historic gem with charming architecture and artsy cafés.
- Marlinton, WV – A scenic riverside town near the Greenbrier River Trail.
- Berkeley Springs, WV – Famous for its natural hot springs and relaxing spas.
Q6: Are there any ghost towns or abandoned places in the West Virginia Blue Ridge Mountains?
A: Yes! Some fascinating abandoned places include:
- Thurmond, WV – A once-booming railroad town, now a well-preserved ghost town.
- Nuttallburg, WV – An abandoned coal-mining town with historic ruins.
- The Lost World Caverns – A mystical underground cave hidden in Lewisburg, WV.
Final Thoughts on the Hidden Gems of the West Virginia Blue Ridge Mountains
The West Virginia Blue Ridge Mountains are full of hidden wonders—from secluded waterfalls and forgotten hiking trails to scenic mountain views and historic sites. Therefore, if you’re looking to escape tourist-heavy destinations, these hidden gems provide the perfect opportunity.
External Links:
- Explore Georgia – Official Guide
- Blue Ridge Parkway Official Website
- National Geographic’s Guide to the Blue Ridge
