Hike #17: Beauty Mountain Trail (New River Gorge National Park)

Hike #17 took me back to New River Gorge National Park, to a trail that I had yet to explore, aptly named Beauty Mountain. This super short and easy hike gave way to major views - one of my new favorites in NRGNP. 

·       Fast hike facts:

1.      New River Gorge National Park 

2.      Beauty Mountain Trail

3.      38.049525349293575, -81.0261702145456

4.    0.6 Miles

5.    < 30 mins

Located on Beauty Mountain Road, parking is kind of challenging. I parked on the side of the road where I was out of the way. There is no trail marker, but adjacent to a gravel road, it’s evident that the trail has been blazed and is utilized. 

It only takes a few minutes to reach gorge views. You have to experience them for yourself to appreciate how sweeping and expansive the point of view is from Beauty Mountain. I didn’t stay for sunset, but I can only imagine how beautiful it would be from this spot. 

The trail continues further into dense greenery and gives way to a small, tranquil stream that seems to emerge from nowhere. Stumbling upon this stream was a pleasant surprise. It serves as a good spot to turn back and settle down at the main overlook to soak in the gorge below. 

I would rate this trail as super easy because of the length. However, I would like to mention that you are at the edge of a sheer cliff face, so definitely keep an eye on children and pets at the overlook. 

Trailhead directions can be found on All Trails or using the coordinates above!

If you want to find out more about New River Gorge National Park in general, check out: https://www.nps.gov/neri/index.htm

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