Hike #18: Laurel Creek Trail (Little Beaver State Park)
Hike #18 took me to Little Beaver State Park, in southeastern West Virginia, to the Laurel Creek Trail. This was my first time visiting Little Beaver, and I’m so happy that I did because it was just what I needed.
One method that I have been using to choose my hike(s) for the week could be described as WV State Park roulette. Basically, I pull up the WV State Parks list, close my eyes, and wherever my finger lands is the park that I visit. I got really lucky with this round of roulette because this hike has definitely climbed it’s way up my list of local favorites.
· Fast hike facts:
1. Little Beaver State Park
2. Laurel Creek Trail
3. 37.78793143905402, -81.0630982058235
4. 3.6 Miles
5. 1.5 Hours
The park itself wasn’t busy, and I ended up just parking directly in front of the trailhead on the side of the access road. However, I am a bit risque when it comes to parking so take that how you will.
Stepping onto the main trail, the first thing that I noticed was how strongly and sweetly the forest smelled. This was one of the most fragrant hikes I’ve been on so far throughout this entire challenge. It was lush and dense and green, full of conifers and ferns, and sporadically crosscut by Laurel Creek. The rich smells combined with the flora instantly captured my senses and shifted my mindset to the here and now.
I would rate this trail as easy because of the length and minimal elevation change. It’s perfect for getting a few miles in and just enjoying your time spent outside.
Trailhead directions can be found on All Trails or using the coordinates above!
If you want to find out more about Little Beaver State Park in general, check out: www.wvstateparks.com
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