Pros & cons
PROS
- Bike‑legal rail grade deep in a quiet creek gorge
- Abundant swim holes and cascades right off the trail
- Short but steep add‑on to Kates Falls when conditions allow
CONS
- Seven miles of gravel driving to the lower trailhead
- Washout near Kates Falls can shut down access at high water
- Occasional vehicle break‑ins reported at trailheads
Lower trailhead: end of 7-mile gravel Glade Creek Road by Glade Creek Campground. Upper trailhead: unmarked gravel road off WV Route 9 near Grandview; cross the bridge to small parking (high-clearance 4WD recommended).
High water can make sections impassable, especially near the Kates Falls junction; below the footbridge the tread narrows and gets rocky; long gravel approach roads; remove valuables due to occasional break-ins.
Overview
Glade Creek Trail is a creekside ramble with purpose: 5.6 miles one way (11.2 miles out-and-back) on a mellow, old narrow‑gauge rail grade that welcomes both hikers and bikers. It parallels boulder‑strewn Glade Creek the whole way, so you’re never far from the sound of water. Call it moderate overall—more for the distance than the tread—though a few stretches tighten up.
Why go
This is one of the park’s best “cool off by the water” days. Expect constant cascades, small falls, and a string of natural swimming holes. Families and casual hikers love the first couple miles from the lower trailhead for easy creek access and rock‑hopping. Anglers get a bonus: the lower section of Glade Creek is managed as catch‑and‑release trout water (know and follow WV regs).
The route, terrain, and add‑ons
Most of the trail is a gentle rail grade, but below the footbridge (about 3 miles from the New River end) the tread can narrow and get rocky—sturdy shoes help. There’s a short, steep spur to Kates Falls (about 0.2 miles and hiking‑only) that’s a worthwhile detour when flows are decent. Note there’s a washout at the Kates Falls junction that can be impassable when creeks run high.
Access and logistics
Lower trailhead: follow Glade Creek Road (gravel) roughly 7 miles to the end near Glade Creek Campground; it’s the most popular start and fine for most passenger cars, though go slow after rain. Upper trailhead: an unmarked gravel road off WV Route 9 near the Grandview area; high‑clearance 4WD is recommended due to steep grades, tight switchbacks, and potential mud. Expect a long gravel approach either way—build that into your day.
Best time to go
Spring brings lively flows and fresh greens; fall adds color and crisp air. Summer is fully shaded and great for swimming, but also the mud-and-bug season—start early and bring repellent. After heavy rain or during high water, expect problem spots near creek crossings and the Kates Falls junction, and be ready to turn around.
Keep in mind
This corridor feels pleasantly quiet and woodsy—fantastic if you want a less crowded alternative to the rim trails. Do remove valuables from your vehicle; occasional break‑ins have been reported. If you want big cliff views instead of water therapy, pick a rim classic like the Endless Wall on another day; for creek lovers, Glade Creek is the move.
Elevation
11.2 mi · 4.5 hrWhere it starts
37.7966, -81.0287Wildlife on this trail
Near Glade Creek Trail
All places →All trails →
1.7 mi awayPolls Plateau TrailQuiet upland loop with creeks, an old farmstead, and real solitudeModerate · 4.9 mi · 2 hr
2.4 mi awayGlade Creek CampgroundFree riverside primitive sites with trail and boat ramp accessCampground · Restroom
2.4 mi awayGlade Creek FallsCreekside waterfall with a beloved swimming hole, reached by short hikeParking · Restroom
2.9 mi awayTunnel TrailShady, stair-filled loop beneath cool sandstone overhangs.Easy · 0.6 mi · 18 min
3 mi awayCastle Rock TrailShort, punchy loop along towering cliffs with glimpses into the gorge.Moderate · 1.1 mi · 1 hr
3 mi awayGrandview Rim TrailShaded rim walk linking big overlooks to Turkey Spur stairs.Moderate · 3.2 mi · 1.2 hr
3 mi awayGrandview Main OverlookBig-bend gorge panorama five minutes from your carScenic Viewpoint · Parking
3.1 mi awayGrandview Visitor CenterSeasonal info hub beside the park’s grandest river overlooksVisitor Center · Exhibit
