A Pet-Friendly Guide To Pocahontas County 

A mountain getaway is even better when your four-legged friend can come along! From scenic trails to local dining and cozy places to stay, here is your pet-friendly guide to Pocahontas County, West Virginia. 

Pet-Friendly Trails 

From easy strolls to challenging treks, there’s a route for every type of adventure. As a reminder, all dogs must be leashed when exploring the trails.

Alleghany Trail 

Length: 316 miles 

Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult

Take on West Virginia’s longest hiking trail, the Allegheny Trail, which stretches from the Mason-Dixon Line to Peters Mountain. An 89-mile section of the trail runs through Pocahontas County, beginning at Cass Scenic Railroad State Park and passing through Seneca State Forest, Marlinton and a portion of Watoga State Park before continuing to Lake Sherwood in Greenbrier County. With many miles of ground to cover, this route is a great option for an active pup.

Beartown State Park

Length: 0.5 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Follow the boardwalk at Beartown State Park, a 110-acre natural area filled with massive boulders, narrow passageways and overhanging cliffs. This short, easy route is ideal for a leisurely walk with your dog, while the dense canopy provides plenty of shade for both of you to cool off during warm summer afternoons. 

Cranberry Glades Botanical Area 

Length: 0.5 miles 

Difficulty: Easy 

Wander through a landscape unlike any other in West Virginia at the Cranberry Glades Botanical Area, a 750-acre ecosystem of cool, misty bogs. Explore the rare flora up-close on the accessible Cranberry Glades Boardwalk. 

Greenbrier River Trail

Length: 78 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Bring your pup along for a walk on West Virginia’s longest rail trail. The Greenbrier River Trail winds through some of the state’s most secluded areas and follows the Greenbrier River for much of its route. Thanks to its packed-gravel surface and gentle grade, you and your dog can enjoy a relaxed walk along the trail.

Trail Alert: Before heading out, check the latest Greenbrier River Trail alerts, as sections of the trail may be closed due to an ongoing bridge redecking project. As of August 3, the section between Clover Lick (MM71.07) and Cass is closed. All other sections south of Clover Lick are open.

Highland Scenic Highway Trails 

Cruise along the Highland Scenic Highway, then stretch your legs on trails just off the route. Start at the Tea Creek Campground and pick from several options. Set out on the 0.5-mile crushed-gravel Honeycomb Rocks Trail and walk past unique rock formations and interpretive signs. Then, if you are up for a trek, make your way to the top of Gauley Mountain on the 6.8-mile Tea Creek Trail. 

Watoga State Park Trails 

Watoga State Park is an outdoor destination for the whole family, including the four-legged members! Head up to the Ann Bailey Lookout Tower for sweeping views of the Greenbrier River Valley and Little Levels. To get there, take the steep one-mile Arrowhead Trail or the three-mile Ann Bailey Trail, following an old roadbed across the mountain and ridge. If you’re short on time but still want a scenic walk, hike the 2.9-mile Pine Run, Ten Acre and Honeymoon Trail Loop around a quiet hollow. 

Pet-Friendly Dining Options 

After working up an appetite, you won’t have to leave your dog behind when it’s time to eat. Several local restaurants offer outdoor areas where you and your furry sidekick can relax together.

Hillsboro Public House

Hillsboro Public House serves Appalachian-inspired dishes and farm-to-table meals, including hearty burgers and fresh salads, along with a full bar. Grab a seat on their outdoor porch and refuel after a day on the trails. 

Jack Horner’s Corner 

Located along the Greenbrier River Trail and at the entrance to Watoga State Park, Jack Horner’s Corner is a convenient stop before, after or in between adventures. Pick up pizza, sandwiches, wraps and, of course, their best soft-serve ice cream, then enjoy your meal on the front deck.

Dari-Land

For a casual stop, Dari-Land has a convenient walk-up window, making it easy to grab a bite with your furry friend by your side. The eclectic, diner-style menu features everything from chicken nuggets to pizza burgers. Top off your meal with a milkshake, freezi or sundae.

Mountain Tavern Restaurant

Grab a pizza for the whole family and kick back on the outdoor deck at Mountain Tavern Restaurant. Choose from a variety of pizza combinations, salads, pasta dishes, calzones and other favorites. 

Pet-Friendly Lodging Options  

Extend your stay and keep your dog by your side at one of these pet-friendly hotels and cabins:

• Boyer Station Cabins
• Eight Rivers Cabin Company
• Elk River Inn and Cabins 
• Cordory Inn and Lodge
• Marlinton Motor Inn
• Morning Glory Inn
• Rivers Edge Camp & Cabins 
• Watoga State Park Cabins 

If you’re looking for a true mountain getaway, pitch your tent at a pet-friendly campground:

• Boyer Station Campground
• East Fork Campground 
• Greenbrier River Trail State Park 
• Snowshoe Campground
• Tea Creek Campground 

Plan Your Getaway

There’s no reason to leave your trail buddy at home when there are so many things to do together in Pocahontas County. Request a free Adventure Guide and start planning your next getaway.