Raven Rock Trailhead - Masontown, WV
Raven Rock Trailhead Dog-Friendly Hiking in Masontown, West Virginia
Raven Rock Trailhead offers one of the best pet-friendly outdoor experiences in Masontown, West Virginia. This dog-friendly hiking destination features a wide, rocky trail leading to stunning river valley views, making it a rewarding adventure for both you and your pup. The trail is mostly shaded and secluded, ideal for dogs and owners looking to avoid crowded parks, and the peaceful surroundings let you and your four-legged friend immerse yourselves in West Virginia’s natural beauty.
While there are no designated fenced areas or dog park amenities, the trail is a popular spot for pet lovers in search of scenic walks and tranquil nature. It’s perfect for those seeking dog-friendly activities, especially if your dog enjoys exploring rocky paths and shaded forests. Due to its often rocky and wet terrain—especially after rain—supportive footwear is recommended for all, and always remember to prepare for possible encounters with local wildlife. Parking is conveniently available near the trailhead, just off the paved access road.
FAQ
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, the Raven Rock Trailhead is a popular hiking destination with scenic views at the summit.
- Is there shade or shelter available? The trail is mostly shaded, except for the overlook area.
- Is the park muddy after it rains? Yes, the trail can be wet and muddy after rain, with water runoff creating slippery conditions.
- Where is the best place to park? There is parking available near the trailhead, just off the paved access road.
- Who do I contact for lost and found? Items found on the trail are sometimes left on or near the trail marker across the street from the parking lot.
Reviews
Skillet Revolution Blender Bottle –
If you left one of these at the Rock, we brought it back and left it on the trailmarker across the street from the parking lot.
Very cool view of the river valley, took us about an hour and a half out and back. Mostly shaded except the overlook.
Ok, don’t be a boob like me and inadvertently follow the right-of-way trail that leads to a bunch of rock scrambling. It’s doable but requires an amount of path searching, calculating, climbing, the wet ground didn’t help but I still made it to just before the summit, which is where I refound the main trail. What threw me off initially was shortly after starting the main trail at the large trail head sign, there’s a trail sign for McCollum that veered sharp left (and yes, the red blazes followed it but). Don’t ask me why but I wasn’t thinking and hiked straight, then found a nice path that lead short left, then down the right of way. Lol looked ok til I got to the rocks and boulders and like, I gotta go through all that? For like, a quarter mile it seemed! Obviously others have traversed this but yeah, not a clear, major route.
To go directly to the trail end, don’t start at the large trail head with sign – walk down that paved access road to the smaller trail sign. Trail is wide, wet, small rocks, and completely skirts the boulders. But after a rain, like today, water runoff is everywhere. Good thing is, again a direct shot but super easy to follow, small side shoot for McCollum camp on the left, but no chance of veering from Raven trail. Memorable day to be sure.
Stunning views from the top. The trail can be a little tricky because of the amount of rocks but it is navigable. You’ll even see people running which I don’t recommend but I suppose it’s possible. Anyway, the fall colors made the hike wonderful.
If you can make the short hike out, this is far better than coopers rock. This area is secluded, so prep as needed being aware of the wildlife. The path is covered in small rocks, ready to roll your ankles to and from the outlook. The views are stunning, to say the least, once you get there. It’s definitely a rewarding experience
We hiked here from the McCollum Campground on a rainy afternoon and had a great time. This hike is very unique because much of it is down a rocky trail that, when it rains, turns into a stream. We saw bright orange crayfish and newts during the hike to the top, and at the top we spotted a scarlet tanager and an indigo bunting! We saw what looked like a rocky rhododendron cave. The trail wasn’t crowded at all and the views at the end of the trail were lovely! I recommend this hike but please ensure that you wear waterproof, preferably high top boots to support your ankles.