Seldom used. You're likely hiking alone or with just a few others. This is a solitude trail.

Little Laurel Trail - 4mi Strenuous Hike

Q: Can I run this trail?

Yes. The NPS tags it 'trail running.' Crushed rock is good for running downhill; watch for loose rocks. Climbs require caution.

Q: Is it safe to hike alone?

Yes, but inform someone of your plans and expected return time. Cell service is unknown. The trail is well-marked but remote.

Q: What's the best time to visit?

Winter/late fall for gorge views (canopy thins). Early spring for wildflowers. Summer for shade. Avoid mud after heavy rain.

Q: Do I need special gear?

Trekking poles are essential—non-negotiable for the descent and ascent. Good boots mandatory. Carry 3L water minimum. No water sources on trail.

Trail Run or hike the Little Laurel Trail

Distance

4 mi

Elevation Gain

1,000 ft

Est. Time

2-4 hours depending on fitness. Descent averages 30-60 minutes; climb takes 60-120 minutes.

Route Type

Out-and-back

Dogs Allowed

Best Season

Spring through fall. Winter offers gorge views (canopy thins); early spring has wildflowers; summer provides shade; fall offers stable weather.

Overview

About This Trail

4-mile strenuous roundtrip from Grandview Area. Descend 2 miles on crushed rock into New River Gorge, then face a 1,000-foot climb back up the same way. Seldom-used trail rewards effort with winter gorge views, spring wildflowers, and summer shade. Route-finding is straightforward; the physical toll is the challenge.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Strenuous

Trail Highlights

Descend 1,000 feet into the New River Gorge interior with river views best in winter when canopy thins. Spring wildflowers line the seldom-used trail. Summer provides refuge from heat.

Insider Tips

• The false summit: you reach the gate at Glade Creek Rd thinking the hike is done—you must retrace steps back up. Expect the climb. • Trekking poles are not optional; they save your knees. • Wildflowers mid-to-late May are peak bloom. • Gorge views best in late fall and winter when leaves drop. • Early start (before 7 AM) avoids heat on return and guarantees daylight. • This trail is seldom used; you'll likely be alone—respect the solitude. • Crushed rock is runner-friendly on descent; watch for loose rocks.

Best Season to Hike

Spring through fall. Winter offers gorge views (canopy thins); early spring has wildflowers; summer provides shade; fall offers stable weather.

Hiking Tips

Trekking poles mandatory—non-negotiable for descent and ascent.
Carry 3L water minimum; no sources on trail.
Good boots essential; loose rocks demand ankle support.
Start early; return before dark on steep gorge terrain.
Inform someone of your plans; cell service is unknown.
Pace yourself on climb; many hikers turn back.
Summer heat: start before 7 AM to avoid midday return climb.

Family Info

All ages welcome but strenuous difficulty. Descent requires careful footing; hand-holding for young children mandatory on exposure sections. Frequent breaks needed for kids. Not suitable for toddlers or unfit children.

What Hikers Say

Hikers and trail runners praise the solitude and gorge experience but warn the 1,000-foot elevation gain on the return climb is brutal. Spring wildflowers and winter gorge views motivate repeat visits. Not for casual strollers; grit required.

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 4 miles

Elevation Gain: 1,000 ft

Duration: 2-4 hours depending on fitness. Descent averages 30-60 minutes; climb takes 60-120 minutes.

Difficulty: Strenuous

Route Type: Out-and-back

Surface: Crushed rock (maintained old maintenance road) with scattered loose rocks and some uneven sections.

Getting There

Trailhead: Little Laurel Trailhead near picnic shelter #4, Grandview Area

Requirements

Permit Required

None required.

Fees: No entrance fee

Shuttle Available

Not required. Trailhead is roadside at Grandview picnic area.

Trail Rules

Dogs: Yes, on leash 6 feet or shorter. Pick up waste.

Biking: Yes, mountain biking permitted.

Trail Markers: Well worn trail on crushed rock surface with clear path. Straightforward navigation; map recommended for safety and confidence.

Map/GPS recommended

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: None. Carry all water; the trail is dry. No reliable streams to filter.

Shade: Mixed. Summer descent is shaded due to tree cover. Winter/spring sections expose to sun. Return climb is partially shaded depending on season.

Hazards:

Steep descent with crushed rock surface and scattered loose rocks. 1,000-foot elevation gain on return exhausts legs and strains knees. Terrain can be uneven; twisted ankle risk is real. Gorge proximity creates exposure—watch footing on descent. No water sources on trail; dehydration risk if underprepared. Cell service is unknown; bring a map. Return must finish before dark due to steep terrain and gorge exposure.

Emergency: Chapter 1: Canyon Rim Visitor Center (open 9am-5pm daily). Grandview Visitor Center (seasonal, May-Labor Day). Emergencies: dial 911. Inform someone of your plans and expected return time before starting.

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: Ghost town

Peak Times: Rarely crowded. This is a seldom-used trail; solo encounters are typical.

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Not wheelchair accessible. Strenuous with steep inclines on rocky path. Crushed rock with uneven sections. High physical barrier.

Family Notes:

What Hikers Say

FAQs

Is this trail suitable for beginners?

No. It's strenuous with 1,000ft elevation gain. The return climb is punishing. Train first on easier trails.

Can I run this trail?

Is it safe to hike alone?

How crowded is it?

What's the best time to visit?

Do I need special gear?

📖 National Park Service — Trail Run or hike the Little Laurel Trail (official page) (checked 2026-07-04) 📖 National Park Service — New River Gorge National Park & Preserve fees, hours & conditions (checked 2026-07-05) 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research. Learn how YourNPGuide works →

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