Beartown state park lives up to the hype

By Hollyann E. Jenkins

Beartown State Park in West Virginia has long been on my list of must-visit state parks. Tucked away on the eastern summit of Droop Mountain, I had heard that this hidden gem offers an unforgettable outdoor experience. Last month, Lily and I jumped in my Wrangler and headed out to see if the park lived up to the hype.

Although Beartown State Park spans 110 acres, its main highlight is the half-mile boardwalk trail that winds through its stunning rock formations. The winding path guides you through a surreal maze of massive sandstone boulders and narrow crevices, creating an immersive experience. Secluded in a hemlock forest, the large rock formations are hidden beneath a canopy of trees and covered with soft, green moss. The textured, circular grooves etched into the sandstone give the formations character and deepen the sense of intrigue. From the lush greenery to the towering sandstone formations, the park exudes a serene, almost majestic atmosphere.

Legend has it that Beartown got its name because bears once used the deep rock crevices as dens. While we didn't spot any bears during our visit, we came across plenty of spots that looked like they could have been perfect shelters for bears or any other wildlife.

Overall, the park truly lived up to the hype. If you enjoy unique geological features, peaceful shaded trails, and being immersed in nature, Beartown won't disappoint. The boardwalk may be short, but the environment is so calming and intriguing that Lily and I walked it several times; we didn't want the experience to end.

Tips & Tidbits

ACCESSIBILITY: Beartown is perfect for those who want to enjoy the serenity of nature and is accessible to all. The boardwalk is perfect if you are looking for a short walk with level footing! There is even a portion of it that is wheelchair accessible. However, there are several steps in other parts of the labyrinth-like boardwalk.

AMENITIES AND INFO:  A single-stall vault toilet is available for visitors' convenience. Dogs are welcome, but they must always be kept on a leash. You'll find a few picnic tables and a large map showing nearby state parks near the small parking area. We found the map especially helpful for discovering a few hiking spots after our visit. Just note that camping isn't permitted at Beartown. Finally, the park is open from April to October and can be visited free of charge. For more information, visit their website HERE.

Happy Hiking!

Holly

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Can't make it to Beartown? The benefits of exploring nature can be experienced anywhere!

Personally, I love hitting the trails for my own mental well-being. Between the happy hormones released during physical activity and the use of mindfulness to observe the sights and sounds of nature, hiking is one of my favorite ways to boost my mood. Stay tuned for future blog posts about the many benefits of connecting with nature.

This is not a sponsored post.