🌤 Weather at Greenbrier River Trail by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 24–68 °F | 51–78 °F | 25–72 °F | 16–40 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Marlinton, 0 mi away, elevation 2,150 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
West Virginia’s Premier Rail-Trail — 78-Mile Multi-Use Trail, Former C&O Railroad Corridor, 35 Bridges, 2 Tunnels, Cass to North Caldwell, Greenbrier River Valley, Pocahontas and Greenbrier Counties West Virginia
Greenbrier River Trail is a 78-mile multi-use rail-trail following the former Chesapeake & Ohio (C&O) Railway corridor along the scenic Greenbrier River from Cass Scenic Railroad State Park in the north to North Caldwell (near Lewisburg) in the south, passing through Pocahontas and Greenbrier Counties. The trail features 35 bridges spanning the Greenbrier River and mountain streams, 2 tunnels including the dramatic Sharps Tunnel and Droop Mountain Tunnel, consistently gentle grade under 1%, passage through some of West Virginia’s most spectacular mountain scenery, riverside camping, and world-class long-distance cycling and hiking.
The C&O Railway Heritage
The trail follows the route of the C&O Railway’s Greenbrier Branch, which operated from the 1890s until 1978, serving the logging, coal, and lumber industries of the Greenbrier Valley. After rail service ended, the corridor was acquired by the state and converted into what has become one of the most acclaimed rail-trails in the eastern United States. The trail’s grade never exceeds 1%, reflecting its railroad heritage, making it accessible to cyclists and hikers of virtually all fitness levels.
Bridges, Tunnels, and Scenic Highlights
The trail’s 35 bridges cross and recross the Greenbrier River and its tributaries, offering constantly changing perspectives of the river valley. Two tunnels — Sharps Tunnel (511 feet) and Droop Mountain Tunnel (402 feet) — provide dramatic passage through mountain ridges. The trail winds through a landscape of towering Appalachian mountains, riverside meadows, dense hardwood forests, and small mountain communities, with the Greenbrier River as a constant companion providing fishing, swimming, and paddling opportunities.
Trail Communities and Access
The trail passes through or near several charming Appalachian towns including Cass, Clover Lick, Marlinton (the “gateway” to the trail), Buckeye, Seebert, Renick, Anthony, Caldwell, and North Caldwell. Marlinton serves as the trail’s primary hub with restaurants, lodging, bike shops, and shuttle services. Multiple trailheads provide access at regular intervals, making day trips and multi-day adventures equally practical.
Activities and Camping
The trail accommodates hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding (on designated sections), cross-country skiing, and nature observation. The trail surface is primarily packed crushed limestone, ideal for hybrid and mountain bikes. Primitive riverside campsites along the trail enable multi-day cycling and hiking trips. The Greenbrier River alongside the trail offers excellent smallmouth bass and trout fishing, swimming holes, and paddling.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Greenbrier River Trail?
The trail is 78 miles from Cass to North Caldwell, making it one of the longest rail-trails in the eastern United States.
Is the trail suitable for beginner cyclists?
Yes, the trail’s grade never exceeds 1% and the surface is packed crushed limestone. It is ideal for cyclists of all skill levels, including families with children.
Is there an entrance fee?
There is no entrance fee. The trail is free and open year-round.
Wildlife & Nature
Greenbrier River Trail — 78-mile rail trail following the Greenbrier River through the Allegheny Mountains. Hardwood forest, tunnels, and river support black bears, white-tailed deer, and trout.
Nearby Attractions
Lewisburg — southern end. Cass Scenic Railroad SP — near northern end.
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Watoga State Park (a short drive away) or Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park (a short drive away).
Camping reservations: Book campsites and cabins for West Virginia state parks online at wvstateparks.com.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Greenbrier River Trail
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Dogs and cats (the only pets permitted) are welcome in West Virginia state parks and forests, including campgrounds and trails, if leashed, restrained, vaccinated and in good health.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Pets must be leashed and restrained at all times; in lodging public areas a sturdy leash no longer than 10 ft is required
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Select pet-friendly cabins, cottages and lodge rooms at 16 state parks and 4 state forests (e.g. Babcock, Blackwater Falls, Cacapon Resort, Twin Falls Resort); lodge rooms $25 first night + $10 each additional night per pet (capped at $75 per visit), cabins $50 first night + $5 each additional night per pet
- Pet fees statewide rule
- Lodging pet fees: lodge rooms $25 first night + $10/additional night per pet (max $75/visit); cabins $50 first night + $5/additional night per pet
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Only dogs and cats permitted; maximum two pets in pet-friendly lodging; rabies certification required for lodging stays
Are dogs allowed at Greenbrier River Trail?
Dogs and cats (the only pets permitted) are welcome in West Virginia state parks and forests, including campgrounds and trails, if leashed, restrained, vaccinated and in good health. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via wvstateparks.com. More: West Virginia state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
Plan your gear for Greenbrier River Trail
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
Top Tours & Activities Near West Virginia
from $109
from $103
from $139