There’s just something about a view that stretches across miles and miles of mountain terrain. Those kinds of views put things in perspective. They soothe the soul. They inspire the mind. Although you have to work for it, the view from this little-known overlook in West Virginia is no exception – it stretches across two states, five counties, and hundreds of miles. Continue reading to learn what makes Cranny Crow Overlook such an inspiring West Virginia destination.

At the top of the world (or at least at 2,877 feet above sea level) in West Virginia's Lost River State Park is a view of the Appalachian Mountains that stretches for miles.
Katy Pitts/Alltrails
This spectacular vista, viewable from the memorably monikered Cranny Crow Overlook, is perched at the apex of the four-mile out-and-back White Oak Trail.
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From this phenomenal perch, hikers can see five counties spread across two states - West Virginia and Virginia.
Megan Ross/Alltrails
The counties visible are Hardy County, West Virginia; Grant County, West Virginia; Pendleton County, West Virginia; Rockingham County, Virginia; and Shenandoah County, Virginia.

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There's even a picturesque stone shelter at the overlook that just adds to the location's charm and provides a nice spot to hole up if an afternoon rain burst catches you unaware and far from your car.
Joaquin Cortez/Alltrails
But while you can expect plenty of beautiful vistas along the journey to Cranny Crow Overlook, don't expect it all to be smooth, level going to get there. The trail is rated moderately difficult for elevation gain.
Andrew Sharrock/Alltrails
But the payoff at the end is worth the work it takes to get up here.
Jay Wilkins/Alltrails
Adventurous hikers can continue on past the Cranny Crow shelter to Cheeks Rocks or can use the Virginia View Trail to make the return trip a bit of a loop instead of a simple out-and-back.

Hardy County, home of Cranny Crow Overlook, also boasts another unique West Virginia wonder: the state’s only natural lake. Have you visited either of these hidden West Virginia gems?

Speaking of West Virginia gems, this brief video showcases some of the most breathtaking scenery in the state:

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Beth C. | May 10, 2023

What are the most beautiful hiking trails in West Virginia?

West Virginia is truly a hiker's paradise. From the rugged Appalachian Trail to countless forests, rivers, and more, there's an endless array of outdoor adventures to be had in the Mountain State. Below we've listed some of our top recommendations for the most beautiful hiking trails in West Virginia:

  • Blackwater Falls State Park
  • Brush Creek Falls, Brush Creek Preserve in Athens
  • Barton's Lake Trail Loop, North Bend State Park
  • Long Point Trail, Summersville Lake
  • Core Arboretum, West Virginia University in Morgantown
  • Grandview Overlook, New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
  • Campbell Falls, Camp Creek State Park
  • Glade Creek Trail near Beckley, West Virginia
  • Spruce Knob
  • Seneca Rocks
  • Long Point Trail, New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
  • Appalachian Trail, Harpers Ferry

 

Learn more about what makes each of these beautiful hiking trails in West Virginia so memorable.

What is the tallest mountain in West Virginia?

West Virginia has many, many mountains to explore. The title of the tallest mountain in West Virginia belongs to Spruce Knob, which stands 4,863 feet above sea level. For a fun day trip adventure, drive to the Spruce Knob Observation Tower, where you'll enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Plus, the Whispering Spruce Trail is a half-mile trail that offers interpretive signs so you can learn about the geology and animal life in the area.

What are the best natural wonders in West Virginia?

If you're putting together a bucket list for West Virginia, we'd recommend adding the following natural wonders to your list:

  • Bear Rocks Nature Preserve (Dolly Sods Wilderness Area)
  • Douglas Falls (Thomas)
  • Gaudineer Knob (Shavers Mountain)
  • North Fork Mountain (Pendleton County)
  • Seneca Rocks (Pendleton County)
  • Lindy Point (Blackwater Falls State Park)
  • Cathedral State Park (Aurora)
  • Lost World Caverns (Lewisburg)

 

 

 

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Cranny Crow Overlook, Lost River SP, WV, Mathias, WV 26812, USA