
Snake Hill Wildlife Management Area Overlook
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
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light

Snake Hill Wildlife Management Area Overlook
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover breathtaking overlooks and lush trails in this hidden gem, perfect for nature lovers and hikers seeking a peaceful escape.
"Almost heaven, Cheat Canyon views by trail without the crowd."

🗺️ 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:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

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
Along a trail
Discover a cool, old brick dam and witness an abundance of frogs and other wildlife.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Navigation is Key
Embrace the Rugged Terrain
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
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
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
There is no entrance fee for Snake Hill Wildlife Management Area. It's a public space for recreation and enjoying nature.
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.
No special permits are generally required for hiking in Snake Hill Wildlife Management Area. Standard access is usually permitted.
🎫 🧭 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.
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.
Yes, it's a wildlife management area and visitors have reported seeing frogs, salamanders, wildflowers, and abundant wildlife, especially near the old brick dam.
Yes, Snake Hill is a pet-friendly park, so you can bring your dog along for your hike.
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.
📸 📸 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.
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.
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.
The poorly marked trails can make accessing certain viewpoints challenging. Be prepared for potentially rugged terrain and variable weather conditions.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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
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
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
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. 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
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. 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
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.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit