Hike CCC Snipe Trail Loop via Alligator Rock

Located just outside of Charleston the Kanawha State Forest is a great to experience West Virginia. This hike in particular gives you a taste of the mountains as well as a look into the deep history of coal in the area. This hike allows encounters with wildlife, as well as, blackberries for a good hiking snack. 

The trail begins at the swimming pool and group camping area where hikers will find a large parking area and bathrooms. To access the trail head, follow signs past the pool. The trail begins as a paved interpretive trail called CCC Snipe Trail. The trail follows the course of a water line set by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930's for the Camp Kanawha. On this portion of the trail, hikers will have the chance to pass an abandoned and sealed coal mine. This portion of the trail is approx. 1 mile long before connecting to Mossy Rock Trail.

Mossy Rock gains elevation moderately as hikers access the top of the ridge and connect to Middle Ridge Trail. Middle Ridge Trail winds across the top of the ridge, crossing a gravel/dirt service road several times. This road can be used to shorten the mileage of the trail. Hikers will then connect to Alligator Rock Trail on the left. 

This trail takes hikers off the ridge and losses elevation rather quickly. It is steep in some places so mind your footing. Also be on the lookout for Alligator Rock for which the trail got its name. 

Alligator Rock Trail will bring hikers back to the group camping area where they started. 

Portions of this loop are available for mountain biking but not all trails.