Snake Hill Wildlife Management Area Overlook - Image 1
1 / 3

Snake Hill Wildlife Management Area Overlook

4.6
·78 reviews·Morgantown, United States

Discover breathtaking overlooks and lush trails in this hidden gem, perfect for nature lovers and hikers seeking a peaceful escape.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, better light

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Snake Hill Wildlife Management Area Overlook - Image 1

Snake Hill Wildlife Management Area Overlook

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, better light

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover breathtaking overlooks and lush trails in this hidden gem, perfect for nature lovers and hikers seeking a peaceful escape.

4.6
(78 reviews)

"Almost heaven, Cheat Canyon views by trail without the crowd."

Vertical photo
TIP

🗺️ Download Offline Maps

Trails are poorly marked; use AllTrails or similar apps for navigation. :iphone:

🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes

Be prepared for rugged and potentially muddy terrain. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cheat Canyon Overlook

Cheat Canyon Overlook

Main trail

Breathtaking views of Cooper's Rock and Cheat Lake, a true hidden gem worth the hike.

Table Rock Trail

Table Rock Trail

Designated trailhead

A popular loop offering lush scenery and access to various trails, though it can be challenging to follow.

Old Brick Dam

Old Brick Dam

Along a trail

Discover a cool, old brick dam and witness an abundance of frogs and other wildlife.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Trail Navigation is Key

Trails can be poorly marked, so downloading an offline map or using an app like AllTrails is highly recommended. Start early to maximize your exploration time and avoid potential crowds, especially if you're aiming for specific overlooks.

Embrace the Rugged Terrain

Be prepared for rugged and potentially muddy conditions, especially after rain. Comfortable hiking shoes are a must. While it's a hidden gem, some areas require a bit of a hike to reach the best views.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better light
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Avoid weekend rush
Crowd
Low
When
After rain
Why
Lush scenery, abundant wildlife
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Deer hunting Public land around WVU

🗺️ Download Offline Maps

Trails are poorly marked; use AllTrails or similar apps for navigation. :iphone:

🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes

Be prepared for rugged and potentially muddy terrain. :athletic_shoe:

⏰ Start Your Hike Early

Maximize exploration time and potentially avoid crowds. :clock1:

📸 Capture the Views

The overlooks offer stunning scenery, especially the Cheat Canyon view. :camerawithflash:

Tips

from all over the internet

🗺️ Download Offline Maps

Trails are poorly marked; use AllTrails or similar apps for navigation. :iphone:

🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes

Be prepared for rugged and potentially muddy terrain. :athletic_shoe:

⏰ Start Your Hike Early

Maximize exploration time and potentially avoid crowds. :clock1:

📸 Capture the Views

The overlooks offer stunning scenery, especially the Cheat Canyon view. :camerawithflash:

🐾 Pet-Friendly Park

Bring your furry friends along for the adventure! :dog:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(78 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Snake Hill Wildlife Management Area for its stunning, 'hidden gem' overlooks and lush natural beauty, offering a peaceful escape. However, the experience is often tempered by poorly marked trails that can make navigation challenging, requiring visitors to come prepared with offline maps.

"Good trail system. I screenshotted a map, which helped but the trails are poorly marked so we did not end up finding the Cheat Overlook. With more time, we could have explored but we had a short amount of time to do our hike. Google brought us to a random spot along the road so we went back to the closest parking lot, which ended up being the Table Rock Trail (late in our hike we saw other hikers who told us which trail we were on). This place would be excellent if they marked their trails and their trailheads. I will come back some time now that I have a better idea of the trails."

Bobby Miller

"Great trail, although it is difficult to follow at times. If you end up doing the whole loop, at one point (either at the end or beginning, depending on which direction you decide to go), you'll end up walking along the road to get from one parking spot to the other. But absolutely beautiful and lush, and the view is 100% worth it."

Aimée

"Lots of hiking trails and little fields. This place is beautiful. There's an overlook along the main train that had a view of Cooper's Rock and Cheat Lake. This place is a hidden gem, I loved it here. I can't wait to hike the rest of the trails. I got to see frogs, salamanders, and lots of wildflowers"

J H

What People Like

Stunning overlooks
Hidden gem status
Abundant wildlife

What People Dislike

Poorly marked trails
Navigation difficulties

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Access is typically via roads near Cooper's Rock State Forest. Google Maps might direct you to a random spot, so it's best to use a reliable GPS or map app and look for designated parking areas like the Table Rock Trailhead. Reddit

Public transportation options are very limited in this rural area. Driving your own vehicle is the most practical way to reach the overlook and surrounding trails. Reddit

The Table Rock Trail parking lot is a common starting point. Be aware that some trails may require walking along the road to connect different parking areas. Reddit

Snake Hill is located across the river from Cooper's Rock State Forest. While nearby, direct access from Cooper's Rock might not be straightforward and requires careful navigation. Reddit

While trailheads can be poorly marked, the Table Rock Trail is a known starting point. It's advisable to screenshot a map beforehand or use a navigation app. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Snake Hill Wildlife Management Area is generally free to enter, as it's a public land area. No tickets are typically required for general access. Reddit

As a wildlife management area, it's usually open from dawn to dusk. It's always a good idea to check local regulations or park advisories if available, though specific hours are not always posted. Reddit

There is no entrance fee for Snake Hill Wildlife Management Area. It's a public space for recreation and enjoying nature. Reddit

Yes, Snake Hill is a Wildlife Management Area, which typically means hunting and fishing are permitted according to state regulations. Always ensure you have the proper licenses and are aware of season dates. Reddit

No special permits are generally required for hiking in Snake Hill Wildlife Management Area. Standard access is usually permitted. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Unfortunately, reviews consistently mention that the trails are poorly marked, making navigation difficult. Downloading an offline map or using a hiking app is highly recommended. Reddit

You can expect beautiful, lush scenery with several overlooks, including a notable one offering views of Cooper's Rock and Cheat Lake. The Cheat Canyon views are considered 100% worth the hike. Reddit

Yes, it's a wildlife management area and visitors have reported seeing frogs, salamanders, wildflowers, and abundant wildlife, especially near the old brick dam. Reddit

Yes, Snake Hill is a pet-friendly park, so you can bring your dog along for your hike. Reddit

Some visitors with AT&T have reported having cell service in the area, but it's not guaranteed. Relying on offline maps is still the safest bet. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Cheat Canyon Overlook provides stunning panoramic views of Cooper's Rock and Cheat Lake, making it a prime photography location. Other overlooks and the natural scenery also offer great photo opportunities. Reddit

Yes, the area is known for its wildlife. Keep an eye out for frogs, salamanders, and various wildflowers, especially near water sources like the old brick dam. Reddit

Early mornings often provide softer light and fewer people, ideal for landscape and wildlife photography. Golden hour in the late afternoon can also yield beautiful shots. Reddit

The poorly marked trails can make accessing certain viewpoints challenging. Be prepared for potentially rugged terrain and variable weather conditions. Reddit

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with local authorities or the West Virginia DNR for any restrictions on drone operation within wildlife management areas before flying. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Snake Hill Wildlife Management Area can be a fun outing for families, but requires some preparation. The pet-friendly nature of the park means you can bring your dog along, which is often a hit with kids. Reddit However, the poorly marked trails are a significant challenge; consider sticking to shorter, more defined loops if possible, or ensure you have a reliable navigation app. Downloading an offline map is crucial to avoid getting lost. Reddit

While the rugged terrain might be challenging for very young children, older kids might enjoy the adventure of exploring and spotting wildlife like frogs and salamanders. The overlooks offer rewarding views that can captivate younger imaginations. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and be prepared for a more rustic experience than a typical manicured park.

🚶‍♀️ Solo Hikers & Nature Lovers

For solo hikers and those seeking a peaceful nature escape, Snake Hill offers a chance to experience beautiful scenery without overwhelming crowds. The 'hidden gem' status means you can often find solitude, especially if you visit during weekdays or early mornings. Reddit The stunning overlooks, particularly the Cheat Canyon view, provide a sense of accomplishment and awe. Reddit

Be aware of the trail navigation challenges and come prepared with offline maps and a fully charged phone. The rugged trails and potential for varied wildlife sightings make it an engaging experience for those who appreciate a more natural and less-developed environment. It's a great place to disconnect and enjoy the tranquility of the West Virginia wilderness.

📸 Photographers

Photographers will find Snake Hill Wildlife Management Area to be a rewarding destination, especially for landscape and nature shots. The Cheat Canyon Overlook is a prime spot for capturing panoramic vistas of the surrounding natural beauty, including Cooper's Rock and Cheat Lake. Reddit The lush greenery and varied terrain offer diverse photographic subjects.

For wildlife photographers, the area is known for its amphibians like frogs and salamanders, particularly near the old brick dam. Early mornings and late afternoons (golden hour) are ideal for capturing the best light. Remember to pack appropriate gear for potentially rugged terrain and variable weather, and always be mindful of your surroundings while seeking the perfect shot.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Trails

The trail system at Snake Hill Wildlife Management Area is a significant draw, offering a network of paths through beautiful natural landscapes. However, a recurring theme in visitor feedback is the poor trail marking. This can lead to confusion and difficulty in finding specific overlooks or completing intended routes. Many visitors strongly advise downloading an offline map or utilizing hiking apps like AllTrails before your visit. Reddit This proactive step can significantly enhance your experience and prevent you from getting lost.

Despite the navigation challenges, the trails are described as fun and offer a chance to explore various terrains. Some loops, like the Table Rock Trail, involve walking along the road at certain points to connect different sections, which is an important detail to be aware of. The rugged nature of the terrain means comfortable and sturdy hiking shoes are essential. Reddit Starting your hike early in the day is also a popular tip to maximize your time and potentially avoid the sparse crowds that do appear.

The Allure of the Overlooks

The primary reward for navigating Snake Hill's trails is the stunning scenery, particularly the overlooks. The Cheat Canyon Overlook is frequently highlighted as a must-see, offering expansive views of Cooper's Rock and Cheat Lake. Visitors describe these vistas as breathtaking and well worth the effort required to reach them, calling the area a 'hidden gem.' Reddit

Beyond the main overlooks, the area boasts numerous smaller viewpoints and natural features. The old brick dam is another point of interest, not only for its rustic charm but also as a hotspot for observing local wildlife, with one visitor noting it as the place they saw the most frogs ever. Reddit The lush, green environment contributes to the overall beauty, making it a fantastic spot for photography and immersing yourself in nature.

Wildlife and Nature Encounters

As a Wildlife Management Area, Snake Hill offers ample opportunities for nature enthusiasts to observe local fauna and flora. Visitors have reported sightings of frogs, salamanders, and a variety of wildflowers, particularly during certain seasons. Reddit The presence of these creatures adds an extra layer of discovery to any hike.

The environment is described as beautiful and lush, contributing to a rich natural habitat. The old brick dam, in particular, seems to be a focal point for amphibian life. For those interested in nature photography or simply enjoying the biodiversity of the region, Snake Hill provides a rewarding experience. Remember to tread lightly and respect the natural environment during your visit.

You may also like

1 of 2