Explore the Majestic Bear Rocks: A Hiking Paradise in West Virginia
Discover Bear Rocks, a stunning hiking area in West Virginia, perfect for nature lovers seeking breathtaking views and diverse wildlife.
Bear Rocks is a breathtaking hiking area nestled in Canaan Heights, West Virginia. With stunning vistas, diverse wildlife, and well-maintained trails, it's a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
A brief summary to Bear Rocks
- Canaan Heights, Canaan Heights, West Virginia, 26260, US
Local tips
- Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most breathtaking views and photography opportunities.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots as some trails can be rocky and steep.
- Pack plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities on-site.
- Check the weather before your visit to ensure safe hiking conditions.
- Consider visiting on weekdays to avoid the crowds during peak seasons.
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car within Dolly Sods Wilderness, head to the Bear Rocks area located at the coordinates (39.06754, -79.29896). Start at the Dolly Sods Visitor Center. From the visitor center, take the main road (Forest Road 19) heading southeast towards the Bear Rocks trailhead. After approximately 5 miles, you will see a sign for Bear Rocks Preserve. Turn right onto Bear Rocks Road and continue for about 1 mile until you reach the parking area. Parking is free, but space may be limited during peak seasons.
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Hiking
Once you've parked at the Bear Rocks parking area, you'll need to hike approximately 0.5 miles to reach the scenic viewpoints. Follow the Bear Rocks Trail, which is well-marked with signs. The trail can be rocky and uneven, so wear appropriate footwear. The path will lead you through beautiful highland meadows and eventually to the stunning rock formations that give Bear Rocks its name.
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Public Transportation
If you're relying on public transportation, the closest bus service operates from Elkins, WV. From Elkins, you can take a Greyhound or local shuttle service to Canaan Heights. Once in Canaan Heights, you will need to arrange for a taxi or rideshare service to get to Bear Rocks. Be sure to check scheduling ahead of time, as public transport can be limited, especially on weekends and holidays.
Discover more about Bear Rocks
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Blackbird Knob Trailhead
4.0 km
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Dolly Sods Picnic Area
12.6 km
Experience the natural beauty and serene atmosphere of Dolly Sods Picnic Area, a perfect destination for picnics, hiking, and outdoor adventures in West Virginia.
Best of Canaan
13.0 km
Experience the beauty of Canaan Valley with Best of Canaan, your ideal vacation home rental agency for unforgettable mountain getaways.
Canaan Valley Snow-Tubing Area
13.7 km
Experience exhilarating snow tubing adventures at Canaan Valley, the ultimate winter destination in West Virginia for family fun and outdoor excitement.
Canaan Valley Ski Resort
13.7 km
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Roaring Plains West Wilderness
16.7 km
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Table Rock Trail Head
23.7 km
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State of Maryland/Grant County Sign
25.4 km
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Seneca Rocks Picnic Area
26.3 km
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Sites Homestead
26.5 km
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Seneca Rocks Mountain Guides
26.7 km
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Harper's Old Country Store
26.8 km
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Yokum's Vacationland
26.8 km
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Moorefield Historic District
28.7 km
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Monongahela National Forest - Cheat Ranger Station
31.5 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Bear Rocks Preserve
0.2 km
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Dolly Sods
0.3 km
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Timberline Mountain
9.1 km
Experience the thrill of winter sports at Timberline Mountain, West Virginia's premier ski resort with stunning terrain and family-friendly amenities.
Smoke Hole Caverns
9.5 km
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White Grass
11.9 km
Experience exhilarating skiing and cozy relaxation at White Grass Ski Day Lodge in the picturesque mountains of West Virginia.
Canaan Valley and Dolly Sods
12.3 km
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Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge
13.0 km
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Little Canaan Wildlife Management Area
14.1 km
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Canaan Valley Resort State Park
14.6 km
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Snow Sports Museum of West Virginia
16.0 km
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Blackwater Falls Boardwalk
16.6 km
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Blackwater Falls
16.7 km
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Tucker Boulder Park
16.7 km
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Blackwater Falls State Park
16.9 km
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Elakala Trail
17.7 km
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Essential places to dine
Amelia's Restaurant at Windwood Resort
11.5 km
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Canaan Valley BBQ
12.6 km
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Big John's Family Fixin's
12.9 km
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The Breakfast Nook
13.4 km
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Quenchers Pub
13.7 km
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Cheetah B's
13.9 km
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Hickory Dining Room
15.1 km
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Hellbender Burritos
15.9 km
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Muttley's | Downtown
15.9 km
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Sirianni's Café
16.0 km
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Wicked Wilderness Pub
16.0 km
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Alpine Lodge Sawmill Restaurant
16.3 km
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The Billy Motel & Bar / ISH Kitchen
16.6 km
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The Smokehouse at Blackwater Falls
17.7 km
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Mountain State Brewing Co.
19.1 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Mountain Owl Market
9.4 km
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Canaan Valley Spa and Wellness Center
10.1 km
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Dolly Sods Wilderness
10.9 km
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The Inn at Canaan
12.9 km
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BFS Foods
12.9 km
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Friends of the 500th Bookstore and Gift Shop is located in the visitors center of Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge
13.0 km
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The Ski Barn
13.0 km
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Blooms of Many Colors
13.0 km
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Shop 'n Save Express
15.6 km
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Wild Ginger & Spice
15.9 km
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Emerald Tree Boutique
15.9 km
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THE WANDERING CARAVAN
15.9 km
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The Ice Cream Shop
15.9 km
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Big Belly Deli
15.9 km
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Trailhead Coffee Shop
15.9 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Slippery Slope Bar & Grill at Timberline Mountain
9.1 km
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Laurel Lounge
15.1 km
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Seasons Cafe
15.1 km
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Stumptown Ales
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Bright Morning Inn
15.9 km
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Blackwater Bistro & Business Center
16.1 km
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3rd Base Sports Bar & Grille
16.3 km
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Blackwater Lodge
17.8 km
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Tie One on Taphouse and Fly Shop
19.4 km
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Old Trails Inn Sports Grill
25.3 km
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Allegheny Restaurant
25.5 km
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Yokum's Riding Stables
25.6 km
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Seneca Rocks
26.5 km
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Seneca Rocks Climbing School
26.8 km
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Backbone Tavern
27.9 km
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