- Highlights: Great views
- Distance: 3.7 miles out and back
- Elevation Change 951 feet
- Trail Surface: Dirt with some rocky sections
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Trailhead Parking: Lost River State Park, Dove Hollow Road, horse stable parking area
- Trail Markings: Orange blazes on White Oak Trail; yellow blazes on Millers Rock Trail
- Website: AllTrails and Lost River State Park
- Beer Pairings: Brothers Brew Co.—Hoptimization IPA & Great Outdoors Pale Ale
Trail Map:
The Hike:
Our friends Jim and Betsy are big fans of Lost River State Park. Located near Mathias WV, this park is a bit off the beaten path but is well worth a visit. Cranny Crow is the most popular hiking destination in the park. The trails are well marked and well maintained.
From the horse stable parking area, follow the orange-blazed White Oak Trail. This is a multi-use trail and you will encounter horses and horse poop so watch your step! The White Oak Trail is a constant and steady climb with some partial views along the way. Several switchbacks make the climb a bit more gradual.
The White Oak Trail joins the yellow-blazed Millers Rock Trail at 1.5 miles. Bear right and follow the yellow blazes for a few hundred yards to the Cranny Crow overlook. Expansive views open up to the south and west from this perch at 3,200 feet. On a clear day, five counties are visible from Cranny Crow. Take in the panoramic views and then retrace your steps bearing left on the orange-blazed White Oak Trail to return to the parking area.
Hike Photos:
Beer Pairing:
Lost River State Park is in a remote section of West Virginia and the nearest craft brewery is 40 miles to the east in Harrisonburg Virginia. Brothers Brew Co. has 14 taps of craft beer, indoor and outdoor seating, and a variety of food trucks visit on weekends. Hoptimization IPA (7.1% ABV • 71 IBU) is an old favorite of ours. This American-style IPA is bitter and piney—a classic IPA. The Great Outdoors (4.8% ABV • 30 IBU) is a crisp and refreshing Virginia Pale Ale. Biscuity malts balance the beer while the subtle addition of wheat imparts a fruity sweetness.
Hike and drink responsibly. Never drink and drive. Stay safe, be responsible, and leave no trace.