These Favorite November WV State Park Hikes Will Soon Become Yours 🥾
Published: November 13, 2025With crisp fall air now settling into the mountains, you’re probably revisiting your favorite flannels and strapping on some warmer gear. The cooler temperatures of November make this time of the year one of the most comfortable times of the year to hit the hills and enjoy West Virginia’s most eye-catching gems.
Explore the West Virginia State Parks hikes and discover why these are favorites in November.
Babcock State Park
Located 20 miles southeast of the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, Babcock State Park is a fall hiker’s playground. Explore more than 4,100 acres of serene wilderness. Beginner hikers love the one-mile Triple Creek Trail, which features multiple small stream crossings and some rocky sections. For a more challenging trek, strap on your boots and backpack for the Old Sewell Trail, which is about nine miles long and was once part of the Narrow Gauge Railroad.
After a day spent on the trails, take a look inside Glade Creek Grist Mill to learn about the park’s history, and shop for your favorite West Virginia State Parks merchandise in the gift shop. You’ll also see an Almost Heaven swing for a perfect fall photo-op!
Pipestem Resort State Park
With nearly 25 miles of trails to explore, Pipestem Resort State Park has a trail for hikers of all experience levels. Take on more gentle trails, such as the half-mile Lake Hollow Trail or the one-mile Turkey Spur Trail. If you’re feeling more adventurous, take on the rugged, steep terrain of the 1.9-mile Country Line Trail. Go all in on the moderately challenging River Trail, which crosses Canyon Rim Trail, passes under the Aerial Tramway, meets the County Line Trail and takes you past several other memorable spots across all 5.9 miles.
Summersville Lake State Park
West Virginia’s newest state park, Summersville Lake State Park, is a stunner all year round. Summersville Lake is nicknamed “The Little Bahamas of the East” due to its clear freshwater. Take in this gem’s best views from the short and sweet Pirates Cove Trail, which begins at the parking lot and leads you to the iconic Pirates Cove area. While you’re here, get your fall swing photo taken on the Almost Heaven swing!
Tygart Lake State Park
Tygart Lake State Park in Taylor County features six hiking trails that offer stunning views of gorgeous landscapes and lakeside scenery. Whether you seek a calming stroll or a challenging climb, the trails feature variety for every explorer. Get some strides in on the easy 0.75-mile Tygart Dam Trail that begins near the lodge and follows along the lakeshore before ending at the dam. For more distance and higher difficulty, tighten your laces for 5.5 miles of moderately challenging trails. This includes the 2-mile Dogwood Trail, the 2-mile School Bus Trail, and the 1.5-mile Woodlands Trail.
Valley Falls State Park
Valley Falls State Park is a beautiful spot to roam and explore in the fall. While famous for the West Virginia Waterfall Trail stop, Valley Falls State Park is also home to a scenic 18-mile trail system. Start easy on the one-mile Cardinal Trail, or kick things up a notch on the 2.1-mile Deer Trail, which follows the Tygart River upstream. For a challenging yet scenic detour through the forest near the Rhododendron Trail, explore the 1.8-mile Rocky Trail. When you return from your hikes, get your next social media selfie taken on the Almost Heaven swing!
Are you looking for more state parks to satisfy your hiking fix? Take a step closer and stay informed on what’s happening in West Virginia!
November Hikes Hit Different, No Matter Where in #WVStateParks
One of the best ways to stay in the West Virginia State Parks loop is by following along with us on social media. From road trip ideas to must-visit trails, you are sure to be inspired by our feeds. Be sure to share your very own captures using #WVStateParks to be featured!
