Ben's Run - Spencer, WV
Ben’s Run is a charming dog park located in Spencer, WV, offering a variety of pet-friendly trails perfect for dog owners looking for an outdoor adventure. This park features activities such as biking, birdwatching, hiking, jogging, and walking, making it an ideal spot for those who enjoy dog-friendly hiking and exploring nature with their pets. The trails vary in difficulty, with some steep terrain and muddy spots, so visitors are advised to wear appropriate footwear and be cautious, especially with children and dogs.
What makes Ben’s Run unique is its scenic trail that runs alongside a stream, providing a refreshing environment even during summer months. The park is well-shaded with occasional sunny spots, and it is known for its kid-friendly hikes and good facilities for dogs allowed outside. While parking can be a bit tricky and some trails may be less maintained, the overall experience is enjoyable for families and pet owners seeking a natural, dog-friendly hiking destination in Spencer, WV.
FAQ for Ben’s Run in Spencer West Virginia:
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? Dogs are allowed outside, which typically implies they can be off-leash in designated areas.
- Is there a playground or activities for kids nearby? Yes, the park is noted as good for kids and kid-friendly hikes are available.
- Where is the best place to park? Parking is a little difficult to figure out; the trail starts at the back of the pool complex near the park.
- Is the park regularly cleaned and maintained? The trail has received comments about being unmaintained in the past, but currently it looks in good shape and very walkable.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, there are hiking trails that feature varied terrain including steep parts and a trail alongside a stream with water even in summer.
- Is the park muddy after it rains? Yes, some parts of the trail are muddy, especially in larger trail dips and persist for over a week after rain.
- Are ticks or other pests common in the area? There is a warning about Lyme disease at the entrance, indicating the presence of ticks, so reasonable precautions are recommended.
Reviews
Very interesting to stop and take a look. I hiked to the dam and back and logged 1.3 miles which included exploring around, on, and in the dam. Trail was muddy and seems to stay that way from reading other reviews on Alltrails.
Nice little park behind the swimming pool in Spencer. The trail was a little muddy and seems to be a little more than a walk but more appropriate for a hike. Some of the terrain was steep so be careful and keep that in mind when visiting. But it was a really enjoyable experience.
A number of reviewers have commented on this Trail being unmaintained. But as of today, looks like it’s in good shape and very walkable. Parking is a little bit difficult to figure out. The trail starts at the back of the pool complex, and continues on for quite a ways along a stream that even during the summer has water in it.There is a warning about Lyme disease at the entrance, but as long as you take reasonable precautions it’s not like the path is overgrown. It’s mostly in the shade with bits of sun. Reasonably good footwear is enough to make it. The trail is covered with good gravel. And, anyone with a reasonable bit of hiking capability should be able to walk at least the first part of it.
Ben’ Run was great, a little muddy in spots but overall great hike.
Nice hiking but the trails are not clearly defined in some places making it challenging to stay on course. Watch for muddy footing persisting in the larger trail dips over a week since last rain. Heavy recent leaf fall (Nov 1 2020) makes it even tougher to spot mud or lose rock underfoot.New California trail probably the best for interesting sights. Hike alongside the rocky bones of the hill and among the tumble down boulders. Save energy because the trail up to Monarch Whistle trail is steep (25 -30 degrees) and lots of leaves.