End summer with an outdoor adventure at Greenbrier State Forest
Summer breaks may be over and school is back in session, but the summer season has a few more weeks to deliver family fun and outdoor adventures. So, pack up the car, take a trip to Greenbrier State Forest and getaway for a weekend in the beautiful mountains of southeastern West Virginia, where each sunrise and sunset is a reminder that you’re in Almost Heaven.
During your trip, enjoy secluded natural beauty and outdoor activities, such as fishing, hiking and mountain biking. And with the 72-mile Greenbrier River Trail and charming and historic towns of White Sulphur Springs and Lewisburg just a stone’s throw away, you’ll never run out of things to do during your visit. Here’s what you need to know to plan a trip.
Featured Activities at Greenbrier State Forest
Greenbrier State Forest is a great place to escape in nature or to enjoy a trip with your family. Whatever your reason for visiting, there are plenty of outdoor adventures to enjoy. Here are a few activities worth checking out:
- 18 hole disc golf course
- 18+ miles of hiking and mountain biking trails
- Reservable picnic shelters
- Fishing (Click here to buy a fishing license)
Featured Trails at Greenbrier State Forest
Whether you want to hike a short distance or ride your mountain bike through winding trails, there’s plenty of ground to cover during your visit to Greenbrier State Forest. Download a trail map and find a trail on your own or check out one of our favorite trails below:
This loop trail starts and ends in the parking area near Shelter No. 2 and meanders through the woods. Designed for mountain biking, but hikers can finish the trail in about an hour.
Distance: 2 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
This trail cuts through a deep hollow along the base of Kate’s Mountain and is suitable for hiking and mountain biking. Trail starts 0.2 miles from the main forest road on Old Roads Trail and ends 0.1 miles from the main forest road on Young’s Nature Trail.
Distance: 1.2 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
This trail runs parallel with the main forest road and serves as a connector path to the picnic area. Trail starts at the main forest road, north of the picnic area and ends 0.1 miles from the main forest road on Old Roads Trail.
Distance: 0.6 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
This trail passes through two hollows and includes a gentle climb in elevation. Trail starts 0.3 miles from the cabin area at an intersection with Old Roads Trail and 0.5 miles from the main forest road on Young’s Nature Trail. Can be combined with Old Roads Trail to make a longer hike.
Distance: 2 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Places to Stay at Greenbrier State Forest
There’s nothing like a cozy cabin retreat in the forest or camping under the stars, especially after a day of outdoor adventures. If you need a place to stay during your trip to Greenbrier State Forest, you don’t have to travel far. The forest has plenty of options for you to choose from.
Cabins
Greenbrier State Forest has 14 cabins, available to rent April through October. There is one modern vacation cabin that is accessible and 13 rustic cabins. All come with electric, water, fully equipped kitchens and many other amenities you need for an extended stay. Designated pet-friendly cabins are available if you’re traveling with your pet.
Campsites
Greenbrier State Forest has 16 campsites, available to rent spring through fall, weather permitting. Each site is suitable for tents and trailers and features electric hookups, picnic tables and a stone fireplace.
Recommended Itinerary
Visiting Greenbrier State Forest soon but need some help planning your trip? Whether you visit for the day or spend the weekend or longer, use the following itineraries to plan a fun trip.
Day Trip
Hike in the morning
Eat in historic Lewisburg
Ride mountain bikes in the afternoon
Extended Trip
Spend the night in a cabin or rent a campsite
Relax around the campfire in the evening
Drive to nearby White Sulphur Springs to see The Greenbrier, “America’s Resort”
Hike 10 or more miles on the Greenbrier River Trail
Pro-tip for getting the most out of your trip to Greenbrier State Forest
- Stop by the forest office to grab a new trail map.
- Hike or bike on the Greenbrier River Trail, which follows the Greenbrier River for 72 miles.
