Want a New View? Here are 5 Trails Under 20 Minutes Away!
With Morgantown’s restrictions on public gatherings, many students living on campus will have to stray from their usual means of exercise. Limited access to gyms and indoor training facilities bring new opportunities for outdoor exercise. Running can be one of these options, as it is easily accessible, and can burn off both stress and calories. The mountainous terrain of West Virginia is sure to challenge even experienced runners. Many students utilize the trails found at the Core Arboretum, which is conveniently located on the Evansdale Campus. But what if you want to switch it up and get some new views? Here are the top 5 running trails located less than 30 minutes away from Morgantown.Raven Rock
This trail is like Coopers Rock with a twist. Located approximately 2.5 miles out of Morgantown and a few miles away from Coopers Rock, this trail spans 2.5 miles and takes about half an hour to complete. Raven Rock is slightly challenging, due to the loose rocks making up the majority of the trail (watch your ankles)! Your run will conclude with an uphill slope, but you can catch your breath on the rocks overlooking a view identical to Coopers Rock.
White Park
Located 5 minutes south of Downtown Morgantown, White Park is a hotspot for hiking, running and athletics. With 4 miles of rustic trails and beautiful scenery, White Park is the perfect location for a run. There are series of trails along White Park, although the park is lacking in signs that guide you along the trails. If you stumble upon the right trail, you’ll be able to find the elusive White Park waterfall.
Deckers Creek Trail
Deckers Creek is located in Preston County, West Virginia. Deckers Creek runs 19 miles parallel to State Route 7, beginning as a paved path and transitioning to crushed stone as the trail progresses. Reaching an elevation of 1,000 feet, runners can see a variety of waterfalls on their steady incline upwards. At peak elevation, the terrain flattens out and your run can be concluded in the wetlands of Preston County.
Dorsey's Knob Park
Located parallel to US Highway 119 and only 18 minutes away from Morgantown, Dorsey's Knob Park gives trail runners a view of Morgantown. The park consists of 70 acres of land on top of a hill. In addition to running trails, the park has a frisbee golf course. Elevated trails span for three miles and overlook the city.
Snake Hill Trail
This trail is the shortest on the list, coming in at 3.2 miles. This trail loop can be found along the Cheat River, and its 367 feet elevation will provide views during your run. On the trail, you can be sure to find fellow hikers, joggers and bicyclists. Snake Hill is also a popular trail for dog owners, due to its easy terrain.
About the Author
Samantha Higley is a freshman who began writing for WVUGO in August
2019 with an emphasis on Club and Intramural Sports. She plans to earn
a degree in Neuropsychology with a minor in History. Samantha is also
on the Club Volleyball team at WVU.