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Kanawha State Forest in Alum Creek | Map and Routes

Forest

5 (93 ratings)

Experience the natural beauty of Kanawha State Forest, located in Alum Creek, with its 9364.0 acres of diverse terrain, making it a haven for walkers and hikers. The park offers ...

Experience the natural beauty of Kanawha State Forest, located in Alum Creek, with its 9364.0 acres of diverse terrain, making it a haven for walkers and hikers. The park offers an extensive network of trails, catering to all skill levels, from leisurely strolls to challenging hikes. With a total of 25 trails, including the popular Wildcat Ridge Trail and Pine Ridge Trail, visitors can explore the park's lush woodlands, tranquil streams, and captivating wildlife. Whether you seek a peaceful nature walk or an exhilarating outdoor activity, Kanawha State Forest provides an ideal setting for all walking and hiking enthusiasts. For walkers and hikers seeking varied experiences, Kanawha State Forest offers routes ranging from short, scenic strolls to longer, more challenging hikes. The well-maintained trails, such as the Crabapple Trail and Hemlock Falls Trail, provide opportunities to immerse yourself in the park's natural wonders. With a diverse range of trail lengths and estimated times, visitors can tailor their walking or hiking adventures to fit their preferences and schedules. Additionally, the forest's idyllic setting and abundant wildlife create a captivating backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy their favorite activities. In conclusion, Kanawha State Forest is a walker's and hiker's paradise, offering a wealth of trails and natural landscapes to explore. Whether you're embarking on a solo adventure or enjoying a day out with family and friends, the park's diverse routes and serene environment cater to a wide range of preferences. For more information about park trails and route details, visitors can download the Pacer Pedometer app, which provides valuable insights and guidance for making the most of their walking and hiking experiences in Kanawha State Forest.

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Walking and Hiking in Kanawha State Forest

Kanawha State Forest in Alum Creek is a haven for walking and hiking enthusiasts. With its diverse trails and stunning natural beauty, this park is the ideal destination for those seeking outdoor activity. The forest offers a range of trails suitable for walkers and hikers of all levels, from leisurely ...

Kanawha State Forest in Alum Creek is a haven for walking and hiking enthusiasts. With its diverse trails and stunning natural beauty, this park is the ideal destination for those seeking outdoor activity. The forest offers a range of trails suitable for walkers and hikers of all levels, from leisurely strolls to challenging treks. Whether you're interested in a peaceful nature walk or an adrenaline-pumping hike, Kanawha State Forest has something for everyone. Throughout the year, the park's landscape transforms, providing unique experiences for walking and hiking enthusiasts. From the vibrant colors of the fall foliage to the lush greenery of spring, each season offers its own charm for outdoor activity. With its convenient location and plethora of walking and hiking opportunities, Kanawha State Forest is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the great outdoors in Alum Creek.

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Other Info about Kanawha State Forest

Hours10AM-6PM
Phone(304) 558-3500
Websitehttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kanawha_State_Forest
Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/KSFFoundation/
Linkedinhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-dials-118696138

Best Walking Routes in Kanawha State Forest

#1 - Crabapple Trail
1
Length: 0.3 milesEst. Time: 5m

Crabapple Trail is a 0.3 mile (500-step) route located near Charleston, West Virginia. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#2 - Teaberry Rock Trail
1
Length: 1 milesEst. Time: 17m

Teaberry Rock Trail is a 1 mile (2,500-step) route located near Charleston, West Virginia. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#3 - Dunlop Trail
1
Length: 0.5 milesEst. Time: 7m

Dunlop Trail is a 0.5 mile (1,000-step) route located near Alum Creek, West Virginia. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

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Reviews of Kanawha State Forest

5/5
93 ratings
LisaNov 8, 2024
5
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Kanawha State Forest Leaderboard

RankingCheck-ins
Christina
41
cchristina2
28
Lisa Gail Sullivan
8
4Rose
3
5jasmine89
2
6Jason
2
7lewistm60
2
8PacerPal
1
9debsway2
1
10Sandra Floyd
1
*Leaderboard only shows top 10 users. Only public activities are eligible for leaderboards. For any one park, a user can only check-in a maximum of once per day.
Nearby Parks
Chilton Reserve
Bill Wells Community Park
Marmet Locks Recreation Area
Oakmont Park
Riverfront Lawn
Little Creek Park
Walt Powell Park
Kanawha Riflemens Memorial Park
Carriage Trail

FAQs About Kanawha State Forest

Where is the best place to walk in Kanawha State Forest?

The best place to walk in Kanawha State Forest is on the Wildcat Ridge Trail, which offers a scenic 1.7-mile route through the forest. The Pacer community has rated this trail highly for its beautiful views and enjoyable walking experience.

How many routes are in Kanawha State Forest?

Kanawha State Forest offers a total of 24 routes for walking and hiking. You'll have plenty of options to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of the park, with trails of various lengths and difficulty levels to suit your preferences.

Which is the longest route in Kanawha State Forest?

The longest route in Kanawha State Forest is the Pine Ridge Trail, which spans 1.9 miles. This trail provides a more extensive walking experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the forest environment and enjoy a longer outdoor adventure. The Pacer community has provided positive reviews for this trail, highlighting its scenic beauty and enjoyable walking experience.

What is the best season to walk in Kanawha State Forest?

The best season to walk in Kanawha State Forest is typically spring or fall when the weather is milder and the foliage is at its most vibrant.

What are the typical weather conditions to prepare for in Kanawha State Forest?

Visitors to Kanawha State Forest should be prepared for warm, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. It's advisable to check the weather forecast before heading out and dress accordingly.

What kind of wildlife might you encounter in Kanawha State Forest?

In Kanawha State Forest, hikers might encounter a variety of wildlife including deer, wild turkey, squirrels, and various bird species. It's important to be aware of your surroundings and respectful of the natural habitat of these animals.

Last updated: Dec 1, 2025

Parks Near Kanawha State Forest

Chilton Reserve
Bill Wells Community Park
Marmet Locks Recreation Area
Oakmont Park
Riverfront Lawn
Little Creek Park
Walt Powell Park
Kanawha Riflemens Memorial Park
Carriage Trail

Latest Check-ins at Kanawha State Forest

jasmine89Mar 4, 2025
Mar 4, 2025Walking
jasmine89Sep 19, 2024
Sep 19, 2024Walking
PacerPalMay 2, 2024
May 2, 2024Walking
debsway2Apr 8, 2024
Apr 8, 2024Walking
JasonApr 6, 2024
Apr 6, 2024Walking
Lisa Gail SullivanDec 15, 2023
Dec 15, 2023Walking
Lisa Gail SullivanDec 15, 2023
Dec 15, 2023Walking
Lisa Gail SullivanDec 13, 2023
Dec 13, 2023Walking
Lisa Gail SullivanDec 12, 2023
Dec 12, 2023Walking
Lisa Gail SullivanDec 11, 2023
Dec 11, 2023Walking
*Latest check-in only shows the last 10 users. Only public activities are eligible. For any one park, a user can only check-in a maximum of once per day.

Total Check-ins at Kanawha State Forest

RankingCheck-ins
Christina
41
cchristina2
28
Lisa Gail Sullivan
8
4Rose
3
5jasmine89
2
6Jason
2
7lewistm60
2
8PacerPal
1
9debsway2
1
10Sandra Floyd
1
*Leaderboard only shows top 10 users. Only public activities are eligible for leaderboards. For any one park, a user can only check-in a maximum of once per day.
Best Walking Routes in Kanawha State Forest
#1- Crabapple Trail
1
Length: 0.3 milesEst. Time: 5m

Crabapple Trail is a 0.3 mile (500-step) route located near Charleston, West Virginia. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#2- Teaberry Rock Trail
1
Length: 1 milesEst. Time: 17m

Teaberry Rock Trail is a 1 mile (2,500-step) route located near Charleston, West Virginia. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#3- Dunlop Trail
1
Length: 0.5 milesEst. Time: 7m

Dunlop Trail is a 0.5 mile (1,000-step) route located near Alum Creek, West Virginia. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#4- Wildcat Ridge Trail
1
Length: 1.7 milesEst. Time: 29m

Wildcat Ridge Trail is a 1.7 mile (4,000-step) route located near Alum Creek, West Virginia. This route has an elevation gain of about 85.3 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#5- Pole Cat Trail
1
Length: 0.5 milesEst. Time: 8m

Pole Cat Trail is a 0.5 mile (1,000-step) route located near Charleston, West Virginia. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#6- C.C.C. Snipe Trail
1
Length: 0.9 milesEst. Time: 15m

C.C.C. Snipe Trail is a 0.9 mile (2,000-step) route located near Charleston, West Virginia. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#7- Rocky Ridge Trail
1
Length: 1.3 milesEst. Time: 22m

Rocky Ridge Trail is a 1.3 mile (3,000-step) route located near Alum Creek, West Virginia. This route has an elevation gain of about 72.2 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#8- Alligator Rock Trail
1
Length: 0.6 milesEst. Time: 9m

Alligator Rock Trail is a 0.6 mile (1,500-step) route located near Charleston, West Virginia. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#9- Pine Ridge Trail
1
Length: 1.9 milesEst. Time: 32m

Pine Ridge Trail is a 1.9 mile (4,500-step) route located near Alum Creek, West Virginia. This route has an elevation gain of about 82 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#10- #1 Store trail
1
Length: 0.3 milesEst. Time: 4m

#1 Store trail is a 0.3 mile (500-step) route located near Charleston, West Virginia. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#11- Rattlesnake Trail
1
Length: 0.8 milesEst. Time: 13m

Rattlesnake Trail is a 0.8 mile (2,000-step) route located near Charleston, West Virginia. This route has an elevation gain of about 209.9 ft and is rated as medium. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#12- White Hollow Trail
1
Length: 1.6 milesEst. Time: 26m

White Hollow Trail is a 1.6 mile (3,500-step) route located near Charleston, West Virginia. This route has an elevation gain of about 354.2 ft and is rated as medium. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#13- Lindy Trail
1
Length: 0.5 milesEst. Time: 9m

Lindy Trail is a 0.5 mile (1,000-step) route located near Charleston, West Virginia. This route has an elevation gain of about 167.3 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#14- Middel Ridge Trail
1
Length: 0.2 milesEst. Time: 3m

Middel Ridge Trail is a 0.2 mile (500-step) route located near Hernshaw, West Virginia. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#15- Pigeon Roost Trail
1
Length: 0.7 milesEst. Time: 12m

Pigeon Roost Trail is a 0.7 mile (1,500-step) route located near Alum Creek, West Virginia. This route has an elevation gain of about 26.2 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#16- Johnson Hollow Trail
1
Length: 0.9 milesEst. Time: 14m

Johnson Hollow Trail is a 0.9 mile (2,000-step) route located near Hernshaw, West Virginia. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#17- Black Bear Mtn. Bike Trail
1
Length: 0.8 milesEst. Time: 14m

Black Bear Mtn. Bike Trail is a 0.8 mile (2,000-step) route located near Hernshaw, West Virginia. This route has an elevation gain of about 203.4 ft and is rated as medium. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#18- Overlook Trail
1
Length: 1.4 milesEst. Time: 24m

Overlook Trail is a 1.4 mile (3,500-step) route located near Charleston, West Virginia. This route has an elevation gain of about 295.2 ft and is rated as medium. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#19- Ballard Trail
1
Length: 1.1 milesEst. Time: 18m

Ballard Trail is a 1.1 mile (2,500-step) route located near Charleston, West Virginia. This route has an elevation gain of about 439.5 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#20- Mary Draper Ingles Trail
1
Length: 1.3 milesEst. Time: 22m

Mary Draper Ingles Trail is a 1.3 mile (3,000-step) route located near Charleston, West Virginia. This route has an elevation gain of about 6.6 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#21- Beech Glen Trail
1
Length: 0.8 milesEst. Time: 14m

Beech Glen Trail is a 0.8 mile (2,000-step) route located near Alum Creek, West Virginia. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#22- Log Town Hollow Trail
1
Length: 0.8 milesEst. Time: 13m

Log Town Hollow Trail is a 0.8 mile (2,000-step) route located near Hernshaw, West Virginia. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#23- Mossy Rock Trail
1
Length: 0.7 milesEst. Time: 12m

Mossy Rock Trail is a 0.7 mile (1,500-step) route located near Charleston, West Virginia. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#24- Hemlock Falls Trail
1
Length: 0.2 milesEst. Time: 3m

Hemlock Falls Trail is a 0.2 mile (401-step) route located near Charleston, West Virginia. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

Reviews of Kanawha State Forest

LisaNov 8, 2024
5
5/5
93 ratings

Photos of Kanawha State Forest

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