Skip the AT Crowds & Hike West Virginia’s 316-Mile Allegheny Trail

Fall is one of the best times to hit the trails and take in the beautiful views. If you’re looking for a little more solitude on your next hike, trade the Appalachian Trail (AT) for West Virginia’s long-distance route, the Allegheny Trail (ALT). 

As the state’s longest hiking trail, the ALT stretches 316 miles from the Mason-Dixon Line to Peters Mountain. Along the way, the trail travels through six West Virginia counties, six West Virginia state parks, two West Virginia state forests and three national forests. 

Here are a few reasons to choose the ALT when planning your fall backpacking trip.

Tackle Similar Terrain, With Fewer Crowds 

With scenic views, challenging terrain and long-distance hiking opportunities, the ALT offers many of the things that hikers love about the AT, without the same level of foot traffic. Although not identical, the ALT features terrain and elevation comparable to sections of the AT in South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee, Maryland, Virginia and Pennsylvania. 

The ALT also has a shelter system similar to the AT, with three-sided wooden lean-tos dispersed along the trail. The shelters along the ALT are farther apart and on a first-come, first-served basis, so hikers may not be able to use one every night. In addition to the 12 shelters, several Airbnbs, bed-and-breakfasts, hotels and campgrounds are available near the route.

Find Familiar Flora, Fauna and Forests

Much like the AT, the ALT is home to a wide variety of flora and hardwoods. The forests along both trails feature northern hardwoods and conifers, along with seasonal sights like spring ephemerals, rhododendrons and fall foliage.

You may also encounter many of the same wildlife species, including black bears, white-tailed deer, bobcats, coyotes, red and gray foxes, raccoons, opossums and chipmunks. Listen for the songs of wood warblers, vireos, thrushes and wild turkeys, too. 

Resupply In Local Towns

The ALT’s connections to local towns are another advantage, particularly in Pocahontas County. 

Durbin serves as a midpoint for hikers, with a small resupply store, lodging and restaurants. While grocery options are limited in Cass, you can still stop for a hot meal and watch as the historic trains roll by. 

The ALT also traces the ridgeline at Green Bank Observatory, offering a unique opportunity for scientific discovery and a place to grab something to eat. In Marlinton, find a grocery store, pharmacy, lodging and dining options to help stock up and recharge before continuing down the trail. 

Visit State Parks & Forests 

The adventure extends beyond the trail itself! The ALT passes through or near several iconic state parks and forests, providing even more opportunities to explore West Virginia’s natural beauty and, in many cases, find lodging along the way. 

Seneca State Forest

West Virginia’s oldest and largest state forest, Seneca State Forest offers true peace and quiet in nature. Across nearly 13,000 acres, find hiking and biking trails, a four-acre lake for fishing, a campground and primitive cabins. 

Calvin Price State Forest

Calvin Price State Forest spans over 9,000 acres of mixed hardwoods and pine, with only 93 acres developed and maintained for birdwatching and hiking. It’s the perfect place to truly get away from the crowds and step into solitude. 

Cass Scenic Railroad State Park

Cass Scenic Railroad State Park is home to the last and largest remaining Shay locomotive ever built. Three excursions depart from the Cass Depot, each following the steep grades and switchbacks of the original logging line. Stay overnight in the park’s historic Company Houses or pitch a tent at the campground. 

Watoga State Park

With 10,000 acres to explore, Watoga State Park is West Virginia’s largest state park and features hiking and biking trails, an 11-acre lake for paddling and fishing, cabins and three campgrounds. 

Hike Through History

Founded in 1972 by the West Virginia Scenic Trail Association, the ALT was a dream born of avid backpackers who wanted to showcase the beauty of West Virginia. More than 50 years later, the ALT continues to inspire hikers and nature lovers. 

The route passes through history that helped define our state, from Civil War sites to West Virginia’s rich railroad and logging history. 

Enjoy the Trail Perks 

Although less known than other popular long-distance hiking trails, the ALT comes with plenty of perks. Fresh mountain air and cool fall days make for pleasant hiking, while clear, star-filled skies create memorable nights on the trail. 

Hike under the Milky Way and stop at one of the area’s International Dark Sky Parks — Watoga State Park, Calvin Price State Park and Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park. It’s a special bonus of hiking the ALT that you won’t find along the AT. 

You’ll also have access to nearby rivers, including the Greenbrier River, Glady Fork, Cheat River, Blackwater River and more. 

Explore At Your Own Pace

You don’t have to commit to a 316-mile thru-hike to enjoy the ALT. There are also family-friendly and shorter hikes available for those looking for a more accessible way to get outside and explore. 

Beginning at Mile Marker 114.3, the Gladwin to Lower Glady section is a great option for beginner hikers looking to experience some of the ALT’s unique features, including expansive views of the Glady Fork River.

For an intermediate option, try the High Falls Trail Head. This out-and-back hike begins on Forest Service Route 44 and follows the ALT over Cheat Mountain to High Falls. For more day-hike options, set out on a portion of the trail at Watoga State Park or Seneca State Forest. 

Navigate the Trail with FarOut 

The best way to navigate the ALT is with FarOut, the official app of the West Virginia Scenic Trails Association. The digital guide provides the ALT map, tracks, waypoints and comments from other hikers. The best part is that it works everywhere, including offline! 

Plan Your Hike 

Take in the peak foliage on the ALT trail and experience the solitude you crave this fall. Request a free Adventure Guide to start planning your hike. 

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