Cranberry Glades Botanical Area Is A Scenic Outdoor Spot In West Virginia That S A Nature Lover S Dream

West Virginia is a nature lover’s dream and that’s why we’re happy to have so much beauty and wonder surrounding us. But that doesn’t mean all the trails are obvious and that the motivation is easy to find. In the winter it can be harder to get ourselves to strap on boots to explore, but we have a feeling this beautiful area might change that.

One of our favorite year-round trails in the state, the Falls of Hills Creek trail in the Cranberry Glades Botanical Area, can be found within the Monongahela National Forest. You’ll find it about an hour north of Lewisburg. People love this trail for the views, but also because it’s maintained so beautifully.

Jessica Kennedy / alltrails.com

Let’s start things off! After arriving at the trailhead you’ll find an information kiosk to educate visitors about what lies ahead. To get there head towards Hillsboro. Just off the Highland Scenic Highway, you’ll find the parking area on Hills Creek Falls Road.

SevenJuran / TripAdvisor

The trail itself is about one mile each way and features boardwalks, stairs and observation decks, all of which are in wonderful condition.

Shelly Sisler / Google

The boardwalks here make the hike kid-friendly, but it’s also great for people who are a little apprehensive about taking on wilderness trails.

Edward Cotton / Google

It’s also great for folks who love waterfalls! This trail includes three of them ranging from the smallest at 25-feet to the highest at 63-feet.

David Sun / Google

Each of the falls are lovely, but Middle Falls is a favorite. It’s the second on the route and features 45-feet of water spilling over rocks in view of the observation deck.

Michael Wagner / alltrails.com

And in the winter you’ll love seeing the Falls of the Hills Creek in all its frozen glory.

jmpncsu / TripAdvisor

Kris Mitchell / Google

While you can do this hike year-round it’s always important to be extra careful in the winter as conditions can be slippery.

Stuart Edwards / Google

There are a number of stairs, so this is best for folks who are comfortable going up and down them. And, of course, extra caution in the winter is necessary.

Jason Homey / TripAdvisor

The entire trail system here is absolutely beautiful. From the footbridges to the streams that run along the route, you’ll be mesmerized throughout your journey.

Mikepaula14 / TripAdvisor

The trailhead is located in Hillsboro. To get directions from your location here’s a Google Maps link to the parking area just off the Highlands Scenic Highway. You can learn more about the trail system here.