Discover the Greenbrier River Trail
Adventure Destination

Discover the Greenbrier River Trail

Explore the Greenbrier River Trail in Frankford, WV, a flat 78-mile path ideal for hiking and biking. Enjoy river views, forests, and wildlife. This trail, suitable for families, offers historical interest and serene nature experiences year-round.

Hiking7.2/10Easy
Photo Gallery

Category

Hiking

Typical Duration

2-4 hours

Difficulty

Easy

About This Adventure Destination

The Greenbrier River Trail in Frankford, WV, is a nature lover's paradise, stretching over 78 miles along the scenic Greenbrier River. This trail offers a peaceful escape into the lush landscapes of West Virginia, making it a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts. Unlike more challenging terrains, this former railroad bed provides a gentle, flat path ideal for both seasoned adventurers and families looking to enjoy the great outdoors.

This trail winds through stunning terrain, featuring dense forests, serene river views, and small waterfalls. It's a perfect spot for birdwatching, with diverse species dotting the path. Unique flora and fauna thrive in this ecosystem, providing a unique glimpse into local biodiversity. Historically, the trail was established on an old Chesapeake and Ohio Railway line, giving it a rich historical background that captivates visitors.

Embrace the tranquility of the Greenbrier River Trail, where each visit promises fresh discoveries and cherished memories.

Editorial Assessment

The Greenbrier River Trail's serene beauty and range of activities make it a wonderful, though lesser-known, outdoor adventure spot. Its gentle paths and rich history add unique charm, though it lacks the dramatic landscapes of more iconic destinations. Ideal for those seeking peaceful nature experiences and mild outdoor activities.

Discover the Greenbrier River Trail

Adventure Guide to Discover the Greenbrier River Trail

1

Hiking and Biking

  • What Makes it Special: With its gentle grade, the trail is ideal for both hiking and biking. Enjoy breathtaking views of the river and surrounding forests.
  • Key Features: Smooth path, river access points, and numerous picnic spots.
  • Visitor Tips:
  • Best Times to Visit: Spring and fall for milder weather and beautiful foliage.
  • What to Bring: Comfortable footwear, water, snacks, and a camera.
  • Driving Directions: Accessible from Lewisburg, WV, approximately a 20-minute drive.
2

Canoeing and Kayaking

  • What Makes it Special: The Greenbrier River offers calm waters perfect for paddling adventures.
  • Key Features: Scenic river views and wildlife sightings.
  • Visitor Tips:
  • Best Times to Visit: Late spring to early summer when river levels are perfect.
  • What to Bring: Swimsuits, sunscreen, and personal flotation devices.
3

Camping Along the Trail

  • What Makes it Special: Numerous designated camping areas allow for an immersive experience in nature.
  • Key Features: Quiet spots, clear night skies, and proximity to the river for fishing.
  • Visitor Tips:
  • What to Bring: Tents, sleeping bags, and bug spray.
  • Local Insights: Connect with fellow travelers and share stories around a campfire.

Reviews

K
kerry “Uhohlol”a month ago

Nice trail, this section needs mowing. Grass is over a foot high in the center of the trail and brush is falling in from the sides. (I've gotten this thing about ticks recently) I hate getting ticks riding a bike. It wasn't crowded and I had a good ride.

B
biswash Adhikaria month ago

Great destination! Enjoyed the open trail and peaceful outdoor atmosphere.

R
Rick King2 months ago

Great trail

S
Steven Kimpland3 months ago

The Greenbrier River Trail was excellent. 9 varieties of wild flowers in a small area along the trail and a cool, dense tree canopy. The babbling river meanders next to it. Very nice!

A
Anusree Nair3 months ago

Great destination! Enjoyed the open trail and peaceful outdoor atmosphere.

Nearby Adventures

Bookable Experiences

26 Miles of Mild-to-Wild: An Overnight New River Float-Fishing Out of Lansing41.8 mi
Lansing, West Virginia

26 Miles of Mild-to-Wild: An Overnight New River Float-Fishing Out of Lansing

A two-day, 26-mile overnight float-fishing trip near Lansing that averages about six hours on the water each day — this guide lays out what to expect and how to prepare.

41.8 miView Trips & Details →
Glamping Down the Upper James: Four Days from Glen Wilton to Alpine44.1 mi
Buchanan, Virginia

Glamping Down the Upper James: Four Days from Glen Wilton to Alpine

A 4-day, 44-mile unguided descent of the Upper James River that lays out daily mileage, campsites and logistics for planning the trip.

44.1 miView Trips & Details →
Learn to Paddle: A Hands‑On River Skills Class from Springwood to Buchanan44.1 mi
Buchanan, Virginia

Learn to Paddle: A Hands‑On River Skills Class from Springwood to Buchanan

A 5–6 hour, instructor‑led course that teaches ACA quick‑start skills across multiple craft and finishes with a guided 5‑mile paddle and scenic shuttle—this guide lays out the schedule, craft options, and what to pack.

44.1 miView Trips & Details →
Moon Light Glow Paddle: A five‑mile, fully guided night run on the James River44.1 mi
Buchanan, Virginia

Moon Light Glow Paddle: A five‑mile, fully guided night run on the James River

A fully guided, 3.5‑hour night paddle that times a sunset rapid run before drifting under moonlight and ends with a riverside bonfire—a clear, fact‑based guide to planning the trip.

44.1 miView Trips & Details →
Riding the High Line: 600–700 Feet of Bridge‑Day Adrenaline Over the New River Gorge42.6 mi
Fayetteville, West Virginia

Riding the High Line: 600–700 Feet of Bridge‑Day Adrenaline Over the New River Gorge

On Bridge Day in Fayetteville you can join the Bridge Day High Line to glide from the New River Gorge Bridge’s catwalk to State Route 82—a limited, harnessed descent that drops roughly 300 vertical feet.

42.6 miView Trips & Details →
Single-Pitch Mastery: Hands-On SPI Skills and Staff Training in Roanoke48.9 mi
Roanoke, Virginia

Single-Pitch Mastery: Hands-On SPI Skills and Staff Training in Roanoke

A focused, up-to-7-hour course teaching single-pitch techniques — belay, rappel, site setup and rescue — for recreational climbers and camp staff.

48.9 miView Trips & Details →