Glade Creek Trail - Image 1
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Glade Creek Trail

4.3
·6 reviews·, United States

Discover the serene beauty of Glade Creek Trail, featuring accessible waterfalls and peaceful fishing spots within New River Gorge.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Fall mornings

Golden leaves and peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Glade Creek Trail - Image 1

Glade Creek Trail

Best Time

Fall mornings

Golden leaves and peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover the serene beauty of Glade Creek Trail, featuring accessible waterfalls and peaceful fishing spots within New River Gorge.

4.3
(6 reviews)

"A beautiful trail offering privacy and stunning natural features like Glade Creek Falls."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 High Clearance Vehicle Needed

Upper trailhead requires 4x4. Opt for lower trailhead if you don't have one. :car:

🐍 Watch for Snakes

Be aware of potential wildlife, including rattlesnakes, on the trail. :snake:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Glade Creek Falls

Glade Creek Falls

Lower Glade Creek Trail

An easily accessible waterfall, perfect for a peaceful fall hike.

TikTok
The Glade Creek Bridge

The Glade Creek Bridge

Glade Creek Trail

A scenic footbridge offering a picturesque spot along the trail.

TikTok
Trout Fishing Opportunities

Trout Fishing Opportunities

Glade Creek

Enjoy fishing in Glade Creek, with different regulations above and below the footbridge.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Accessing the Upper Trailhead

The upper Glade Creek Trailhead requires a 4x4 or high-clearance vehicle. If you don't have one, plan to access the trail from the lower trailhead, which is more accessible but may involve a longer hike to certain points. Reddit

Fishing Regulations

Understand the trout fishing regulations: 'Catch and keep' is permitted above the footbridge (approx. 2.5 miles in), while 'catch and release' is enforced below it. Reddit

Best Times

When
Fall mornings
Why
Golden leaves and peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more privacy
Crowd
Low
When
Spring and Summer
Why
Refreshing creek walks
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Hiking ASMR on the Glade Creek trail, 5 miles or so to reach Kate's Falls. Watch out for snakes, this is where I seen my 1st rattle 🐍. #adventuretime #weekendwarrior #daytrips #hiking #trails #hikingadventures #wildandwonderful #hikingtrails #nationalpark #asmr #creek #bridge #westvirginia #almostheaven #womenwhohike #womenhikers
mda_hikes
5 likes • 142 views

🚗 High Clearance Vehicle Needed

Upper trailhead requires 4x4. Opt for lower trailhead if you don't have one. Reddit :car:

🐍 Watch for Snakes

Be aware of potential wildlife, including rattlesnakes, on the trail. TikTok :snake:

Awesome hike to Glade Creek Falls today !!! So grateful for the New River National Park and River mountain paradise in my own backyard ♥️♥️♥️♥️👏👏✌️😁😎🌞 #gladecreektrail #gladecreekfalls #wvwaterfalls #waterfall #waterfalls #newriver #newrivergorge #newrivernationalriver
gcjarrell
34 likes • 529 views
I can’t believe people skip Glade Creek Falls, one of the easiest waterfalls to reach in the Kootenays! 🍁💦 Just a 1 km trail through golden leaves and you’ll find this peaceful spot, perfect for your fall weekend. 📍Glade, BC (near Castlegar) 👣 1 km round trip, easy trail 💬 Comment falls if you love easy hikes like me 🥰🥾 📌 Save this for your next cozy road trip ✨ Follow @traveltaleswithrosa for ...
traveltaleswithrosa
116 likes • 4.3K views

🎣 Know Fishing Rules

Catch and keep above bridge, catch and release below. Reddit :fishingpoleand_வத:

🚶‍♀️ Easy Waterfall Access

Glade Creek Falls is a short, easy 1km walk from the trailhead. TikTok :hiking_boot:

📍 Glade Creek Trail. Glade Creek. New River Gorge National Park. Prince, WV. 11-2-2024. . . . Hiking. Backpacking. Camping. Trekking. Overlanding. West Virginia. Drone. DJI. New River Gorge National Park. Fayetteville. Sandstone. Grandview. Thurmond.
ericr25320
46 likes • 520 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 High Clearance Vehicle Needed

Upper trailhead requires 4x4. Opt for lower trailhead if you don't have one. Reddit :car:

🐍 Watch for Snakes

Be aware of potential wildlife, including rattlesnakes, on the trail. TikTok :snake:

🎣 Know Fishing Rules

Catch and keep above bridge, catch and release below. Reddit :fishingpoleand_வத:

🚶‍♀️ Easy Waterfall Access

Glade Creek Falls is a short, easy 1km walk from the trailhead. TikTok :hiking_boot:

🏞️ Seek Privacy

This trail offers a more secluded experience compared to busier parks. Reddit :camerawithflash:

What Travellers Say

4.3
(6 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Glade Creek Trail is praised for its beautiful, secluded atmosphere and the accessible Glade Creek Falls. Anglers appreciate the distinct fishing regulations along the creek. However, some visitors have encountered navigation issues, with GPS leading to private driveways, and the upper trailhead requires a high-clearance vehicle.

"Beautiful trail, a little off the beaten path so if you want a little more privacy this is a good spot for it. There's a foot bridge about 2.5 miles down the trail, everything above that bridge is catch and keep trout, everything below that bridge is catch and release. Nice creek to fish. Pro tip, the area around and directly below the I-64 overpass (its WAY above you) has some good fishing opportunities, at least it did for us."

Michael Polt

"trail looks awesome but address it brought us to is someone’s private driveway. 👎👎that’s lame as hell google."

jonas sell

""

Holly

What People Like

Beautiful and secluded
Accessible waterfall
Good fishing opportunities

What People Dislike

GPS navigation issues
Upper trailhead access

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

There are two main trailheads: the upper and lower. The upper trailhead requires a 4x4 or high-clearance vehicle due to its rugged access. If you don't have such a vehicle, the lower trailhead is a more accessible option, though it may mean a longer hike to reach certain points like Glade Creek Falls. Reddit Some visitors have reported GPS leading to private driveways, so double-check your navigation. Reddit

Yes, Glade Creek Trail is located within the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve in West Virginia. TikTok+2

Using a reliable GPS or map is recommended. Be aware that some navigation apps might direct you to private property, so confirm your route, especially for the upper trailhead. Reddit

You can access the lower Glade Creek Trailhead with a regular car. The upper trailhead is not recommended for standard vehicles. Reddit

The upper trailhead is known to be challenging to access and requires a high-clearance or 4x4 vehicle. It's best to research current road conditions and specific directions from local sources before attempting. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Glade Creek Trail is part of the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, which generally does not require entrance fees or tickets for day use. TikTok+1

As a natural trail within a national park, Glade Creek Trail is typically open year-round from dawn to dusk. Always check the official National Park Service website for any temporary closures or alerts. TikTok

No, there is no entrance fee to access Glade Creek Trail or the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve for general hiking and recreation. TikTok+1

Dispersed camping may be permitted in certain areas of the New River Gorge National Park, but it's essential to check the park's regulations and obtain any necessary permits beforehand. TikTok

Yes, a valid West Virginia fishing license is required to fish in Glade Creek. Regulations regarding catch and keep/release also apply. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The difficulty varies depending on the section. The trail to Glade Creek Falls is generally considered easy, around 1 km round trip. TikTok Longer hikes, like from the lower to upper trailheads, can be more strenuous with elevation gain. TikTok

Don't miss Glade Creek Falls, a beautiful and easily accessible waterfall. TikTok The footbridge is also a picturesque landmark along the trail. TikTok Many enjoy the scenic creek itself. TikTok

Yes, Glade Creek is known for its trout fishing. Remember that regulations differ: 'catch and keep' is allowed above the footbridge, while 'catch and release' is enforced below. Reddit

Visitors have reported seeing wildlife, including rattlesnakes, so it's important to be aware of your surroundings. TikTok You might also encounter various birds and other small animals. TikTok

Absolutely! Glade Creek Trail is a fantastic option for a day trip, offering beautiful scenery, a waterfall, and fishing opportunities. TikTok+2

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the beauty of Glade Creek Falls, especially during the fall with golden leaves. TikTok The footbridge offers a classic scenic shot. TikTok Drone photography can also capture the expansive New River Gorge landscape. TikTok

Yes, drone footage can provide stunning aerial views of the Glade Creek area and the surrounding New River Gorge National Park. TikTok

Morning light can be beautiful for photographing Glade Creek Falls, offering softer light and fewer crowds. TikTok

The area around Glade Creek Falls and the footbridge are prime spots. The I-64 overpass area also offers unique perspectives, though it's high above. Reddit

Many visitors share photos of the waterfall, the creek, and the lush forest scenery. Hiking and nature photography are very popular. TikTok+2

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Glade Creek Trail is a great option for families looking for an accessible nature outing. The easy 1 km trail to Glade Creek Falls is perfect for little legs and offers a rewarding destination. TikTok The sound of the creek and the chance to explore a natural environment can be very engaging for children. Remember to pack snacks and water, and keep a close eye on kids near the water. TikTok

While the upper trailhead requires a 4x4, the lower trailhead is accessible for most vehicles, making it easier to bring the family. Reddit Be mindful of wildlife, such as snakes, and teach children to observe from a safe distance. TikTok The trail offers a good balance of adventure and manageability for a family day trip. TikTok

🎣 Anglers and Fishermen

For fishing enthusiasts, Glade Creek offers a promising spot, especially for trout. The key is understanding the 'catch and keep' zone above the footbridge and the 'catch and release' zone below. Reddit This distinction is crucial for a legal and enjoyable fishing experience. The creek's natural setting provides a peaceful backdrop for a day of casting lines. Reddit

Don't forget to secure your West Virginia fishing license before you go. Reddit Some anglers have found success even in areas near the I-64 overpass, suggesting varied fishing spots along the creek. Reddit It's a great place to combine a hike with your passion for fishing. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Hikers Seeking Solitude

If you're looking to escape the crowds, Glade Creek Trail is an excellent choice. It's described as being 'a little off the beaten path,' offering more privacy than some of the more popular New River Gorge trails. Reddit You might even find yourself enjoying the beautiful trail all to yourselves. TikTok

While the hike to Glade Creek Falls is relatively short and easy, longer stretches of the trail offer more of a challenge and a chance to truly immerse yourself in nature. TikTok The consistent presence of the creek adds to the tranquil ambiance, making it ideal for a peaceful hike. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Trailheads

Accessing Glade Creek Trail involves understanding the differences between its trailheads. The upper Glade Creek trailhead is known for its rugged access, requiring a 4x4 or high-clearance vehicle. Reddit This route can lead to more secluded parts of the trail. Conversely, the lower Glade Creek trailhead is more accessible for standard vehicles, making it the preferred entry point for many visitors. TikTok Planning your access based on your vehicle type is crucial to avoid disappointment and ensure a smooth start to your hike. Reddit

It's important to note that some navigation systems might incorrectly direct visitors to private driveways when searching for trailheads. Reddit Always cross-reference your route with official park maps or reliable GPS data. The New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is a vast area, and precise navigation is key to enjoying its natural beauty without unintended detours. TikTok

Fishing in Glade Creek

Glade Creek offers a rewarding experience for anglers, particularly those interested in trout fishing. The creek has distinct fishing regulations that vary along its course. Approximately 2.5 miles down the trail, a footbridge marks a significant boundary. Above this bridge, the creek is designated as 'catch and keep' trout water, allowing anglers to retain their catch. Reddit

Below the footbridge, however, the regulations shift to 'catch and release' only. This distinction is vital for all fishermen to observe. Reddit Visitors have found good fishing opportunities even in areas near the I-64 overpass, which looms high above the creek. Reddit Remember to always carry a valid West Virginia fishing license and be aware of the specific size and creel limits in effect. Reddit

The Natural Beauty of Glade Creek

Glade Creek Trail is celebrated for its natural charm, offering a refreshing escape into the wilderness. The trail meanders alongside the creek, providing a soothing soundtrack of flowing water and opportunities for peaceful walks. TikTok Visitors often highlight the serene atmosphere and the chance to enjoy the outdoors with a sense of privacy, making it a great alternative to more crowded park destinations. Reddit

During the fall, the trail transforms into a spectacle of color, with golden leaves creating a picturesque setting. TikTok The highlight for many is Glade Creek Falls, an easily accessible waterfall that adds to the trail's allure. TikTok Whether you're seeking a short hike to a waterfall or a longer trek along the creek, Glade Creek Trail offers a delightful immersion in West Virginia's natural beauty. TikTok+2

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