Cranny Crow Overlook, Lost River SP, WV

We hiked the white oak trail from the stables parking lot up cranny crow on a Monday in mid-January. I was concerned about snow but there was none. The hike was about 2 miles up. I didn’t think it was that steep but it is mostly uphill. I wouldn’t say strenuous but it’s rocky so take your time. It took us a little over an hour. The view from cranny crow was spectacular. We had perfect timing as the sun was beginning to set. There is a bench you can rest on and there is another bench inside the overlook structure. Don’t forget to take your pic on the almost heaven swing. Also to note, we both had zero cell service in the park on AT&T and Verizon. No restrooms at the top obviously and I did not notice any at the stables when we parked. There was no entry fee for the park.

Cranny Crow Overlook is a view that is well worth the hike. The hike is almost completely uphill until you get to the top. There are no facilities along the way so bring plenty of water with you. Depending on how you hike, this can be an out-and-back trail or a loop that will take you to other parts of the park. There are more trails at the top that will take you further on if you want to keep hiking.

Note that It’s a difficult trail if you are not fit. It’s a steady incline with lot of rocky terrain and slippery at many places. Wear comfortable hiking shoes and be careful. Till you reach the top there are no views so you need to decide if it’s worth hiking. Lot of camping cabins, hiking trails, play areas for kids and many amazing vista of the mountains.