North Fork Mountain Trail to Chimney Top in WV (2026 guide)

The North Fork Mountain Trail to Chimney Top has been labeled by many to be one of the BEST hikes in West Virginia. It’s definitely in my top three favorite hikes in West Virginia. 🏆

The full North Fork Mountain Trail stretches 24 miles through the stunning landscapes of the Spruce Knob-Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area and Monongahela National Forest.

But don’t worry, you don’t have to hike the entire thing to experience the magic of Chimney Top.

This out-and-back hike to Chimney Top is roughly 5.2 miles roundtrip. It’s a bit of a challenge, but 100% worth the effort!

If you’ve never heard of this hike and you’re planning a trip to the Seneca Rocks area, do yourself a favor and add it to your itinerary. I promise you won’t regret it. 😄

The views from the top are absolutely jaw-dropping, and the rock formations are unlike anything else in the region.

In my full guide, you’ll find everything you need to know to plan your hike, including where to park, how to find the trailhead, step-by-step trail directions, the best time to go, and even places to stay nearby.

Affiliate Disclaimer: Some links on this page may be affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Thanks for supporting the blog! 🫶

North Fork Mountain Trail to Chimney Top: Trail Stats and Map

Chimney Top via North Fork Mountain Trail Stats

Chimney Top via North Fork Mountain Trail Map

North Fork Mountain Trail to Chimney Top: Parking and Directions

The North Fork Mountain Trailhead, the northern trailhead, is located off Smoke Hole Road near Cabins, West Virginia. It’s a small gravel parking lot that can hold about 6 vehicles.

I read that it is legal to park alongside the road if the lot is full. Best bet is to get there early to snag a parking spot!

Further south along Smoke Hole Road is another trailhead called the Landis Trail Trailhead (southern trailhead).

Starting from the southern trailhead is about the same distance to Chimney Top as the northern route. I talk more about this alternate route further below!

Best Time to Hike North Fork Mountain Trail to Chimney Top

🌷 Spring (March – May): Spring brings comfortable temperatures and blooming wildflowers along the trail. A quick Google search shows that May is typically the rainiest month in Cabins, West Virginia.

You can hike to Chimney Top in wet conditions, but be extra cautious! There are steep drop-offs, and the rocks can get dangerously slippery.

☀️ Summer (June – August): Hot and humid conditions make summer hiking more challenging. Hiking to Chimney Top via North Fork Mountain Trail is quite challenging, so bring plenty of water and salty snacks.

It’s a good idea to begin this hike early in the morning or later in the day to avoid the hottest part of the day.

🍂 Fall (September – November): Fall is probably the best time to hike to Chimney Top. Crisp air and peak foliage in mid-to-late October transform the landscape into a breathtaking mix of red, orange, and gold.

My husband and I hiked this trail in March 2024 and the weather was more than perfect, but the landscape was a bit blah.

Don’t get me wrong, we still loved this hike, but I want to do it again in the fall. I bet it’s so beautiful during sunrise when the fall-colored trees are vibrant and glowing!

☃️ Winter (December – February): Winter offers a peaceful, crowd-free experience. A light dusting of snow makes the trail and viewpoint even more scenic!

Just be cautious of snowy/icy conditions which can make the trail and Chimney Top slippery.

Dress in layers, wear proper footwear, and avoid climbing to the tippity top of Chimney Top if icy conditions are present.

How to Reach Chimney Top via North Fork Mountain Trail

To reach Chimney Rock, start at the North Fork Mountain Trailhead off Smoke Hole Road. The trail is marked with blue blazes on the trees.

It’s an uphill climb the entire way but fairly gradual. The last 0.1 miles will be the steepest, but we’re not there just yet!

At around the 1.8-mile mark, there will be an unmarked side trail to the right – this leads to an amazing overlook along the ridge.

This is a great spot for a short break before continuing the hike – only about 0.8 more miles until you reach Chimney Top!

The trail now leads you along a wide ridgeline. At the 2.2-mile mark, the trail does become a bit steeper.

You will soon reach a rock cairn at the 2.5-mile mark – take a right onto the Chimney Top spur trail.

This is the short, super steep section I mentioned earlier. It’s only about 0.1 miles long, but pretty brutal on the legs.

At the top, you’ll find the iconic sandstone pillars of Chimney Top.

You can climb to the top but those with a fear of heights might want to admire from below. You still get amazing views.

I didn’t find the short climb too intimidating, and the views from the top are absolutely epic!

If you’re backpacking in, there are several tent sites along the trail. Be aware, there are no water sources on this stretch of the North Fork Mountain Trail, so pack accordingly.

To return to the trailhead, simply retrace your steps back down the trail.

Congrats, you did it! 🥳

✨ NEXT ADVENTURE: Hike the Seneca Rocks Trail

Alternate Route: Chimney Top via Landis Trail and North Fork Mountain Trail

This route has slightly less elevation gain than the one described above, making it a bit easier, however it’s still a solid challenge for most hikers!

It’s a great alternative if the other trailhead parking lot is full. The distance is nearly identical, and both routes lead you to the same incredible views at Chimney Top.

Chimney Top via Landis and North Fork Mountain Trails (stats and maps)

Starting Point: Landis Trail Trailhead

Length: 5 miles

Elevation Gain: 1,700 feet

Difficulty: Challenging

Hiking Time: 3 to 3.5 hours

Route Type: Out-and-back

Pet-friendly? Yes, must be on leash

Hike Features: Incredible views at Chimney Top, unique rock formations

Trail Map:

Chimney Top Hiking Tips and Packing List

Chimney Top Hiking Tips

1. Start Early: Beat the crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures by beginning your hike in the morning, especially in peak season.

2. Check the Weather: Always check the weather forecast before heading out on a hike. Chimney Top can be dangerous in inclement weather.

3. Watch for Bears: Black bears live in Monongahela National Forest – follow these guidelines to avoid any negative interactions with a black bear.

4. Be Careful Near Cliffs: There are several viewpoints along the trail, including Chimney Top, with steep drop-offs. Please use caution and keep kids and pets away from the cliff edges.

5. Respect Nature: Follow Leave No Trace principles – plan ahead, pack out all trash, avoid disturbing wildlife, be considerate of others, and respect the natural beauty of Monongahela National Forest.

Hiking Chimney Top Packing List

👚 Layers of Clothing (top) – Pack a moisture-wicking base layer, a fleece mid-layer, an insulated jacket, and an outer shell to protect you from the elements, such as rain and wind. You may not need all these layers, especially in the summer months, but it’s always best to be over-prepared!

Check out my favorite tops 👇

• Base layer: REI Co-op Sahara Shade Hoodie (warm/mild conditions) and REI Co-op Midweight Long-Sleeve Base Layer (cooler conditions)
• Fleece mid layer: Cotopaxi Teca Fleece Full-Zip Jacket
• Down mid layer: Cotopaxi Fuego Hooded Down Jacket
• Outer shell: In the summer I always pack a light windbreaker, such as the Cotopaxi Teca Crop Windbreaker or the RevolutionRace Unit Light Windbreaker. If cold, windy, and rainy conditions are in the forecast (or there’s a slight possibility), I make sure to pack my Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket.

🩳 Hiking Shorts or Pants – Pack a comfortable, durable, and stretchy pair of hiking shorts or pants. Also think about what conditions you might run into, such as warm or cold temperatures, wind and/or rain, bugs, and overgrown trails.

Check out my favorite hiking bottoms 👇

• Cotopaxi Losdos Zip-Off Pants
• RevolutionRace Breezy Ankle Outdoor Pants
• Baleaf Fleece-Lined Jogger Pants
• RevolutionRace Summit Pocket Tights
• Revolution Race Hike & Dive Shorts

🥾 Hiking Footwear – Bring a good pair of hiking boots or shoes with good traction. If I’m not expecting to hike in too much mud or snow, my go-to hiking shoes are the Altra Lone Peak trail runners. They have a wide-toe box, 0 mm heel-to-toe drop, and MaxTrac rubber outsole. Plus, they’re lightweight and so comfy!

🧦 Socks – Moisture-wicking, quick-drying socks are the way to go. My favorite pair of hiking socks are Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Socks. Always pack an extra pair!

🎒 Day Pack – What you plan to do (sightseeing, hiking, etc.), determines what size pack you’ll need. Here is what I typically bring based on what I’m doing that day 👇

• Short walks and sightseeing: Cotopaxi Kapai 1.5L Del Dia Hip Pack
• Short, easy to moderate day hikes: REI Co-op Flash 22L Pack
• Long, moderate to challenging day hikes: REI Co-op Trail 25L Pack or Cotopaxi Luzon Del Dia 24L Pack

🥢 Trekking Poles – Essential for stability, balance, and support when hiking trails, especially on tough, rocky, and uneven terrain. I use REI Co-op Trailmade Trekking Poles and love them!

❄️ Microspikes – Bring a pair of microspikes if you’re visiting in the winter and you’re planning to hike along icy trails. They will give you good traction to avoid slipping! I use Black Diamond Access Spike Traction Device.

🦟 Mosquito/Bug Repellants – In the warmer months, be prepared for annoying gnats, mosquitoes, and flies. Wear long-sleeve clothing, a head net, and use bug spray.

🧤 Extra Warm Layers – If you expect cooler conditions or hiking to higher elevations, make sure to pack extra layers for added warmth, such as gloves, beanie, neck gaiter, and a light jacket.

🗺️ Navigation – Carry a physical topographic map, compass, a satellite messenger (or personal locator beacon), and download offline maps to help you stay on course, find your way in unfamiliar terrain, and call for help if needed.

🔦 Headlamp/Flashlight – A reliable light source with extra batteries, in case you end up hiking in the dark or need it for emergency situations.

💧 Water – Water bottles to carry sufficient water to stay hydrated, along with a filtration system or purification tablets if you plan to refill from natural sources.

🍕 Food – Energy-rich snacks or meals to keep your energy levels up during the hike.

😎 Sun Protection – Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sunhat to protect yourself from harmful UV rays, even when it’s cloudy. Also, polarized sunglasses are important when it’s bright outside and to reduce glare from reflective surfaces like water, snow, and roads.

🩹 First-Aid Kit – A basic first-aid kit with items like bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, and any personal medications you may need.

🥶 Emergency Shelter – Pack an emergency bivy sack or space blanket for shelter in case of sudden weather changes.

🔥 Fire – A lighter, matches, or fire starter to help you build a fire for warmth or signaling in case of emergency. Along with matches, I also carry a multi-tool carabiner that has a fire starter, utility blade, screwdriver, and bottle opener.

🗡️ Multi-Tool and Repair Kit – A versatile tool/knife and repair kit to handle any task, from preparing food to making repairs.

💩 Waste Disposal Supplies – WAG bags, trowel, toilet paper, pee cloth, wipes, Ziploc bags – be sure to pack out everything!

Places to Stay Near Chimney Top West Virginia

Lodging Near Chimney Top

There’s no shortage of great places to stay in and around Cabins, West Virginia, which is where Chimney Top is located.

Options include hotels, resort lodges, romantic cabins for two, and spacious rentals perfect for families. I’ve rounded up a few top-rated accommodations based on reviews to help you plan your stay.

While we haven’t had the chance to stay at these ourselves, they all seem like amazing options for a mountain getaway.

Honestly, my husband and I are already dreaming about our next visit – this time, we’re hoping to stay in a cozy little cabin. I’m all about exciting adventures on the trail, but nothing beats ending the day in a cozy cabin. 😌

🏠 Cabins at Cabins, West Virginia

• River’s Edge Cabin (Elkins)
• Riverfront Mountain Getaway (Elkins)
• Cabin in the Wildwoods (Franklin)
• Mountain Getaway (Riverton)
• Cabin in the Woods (Riverton)
• Nature’s Paradise (Upper Tract)
• The Renovated Barn (Seneca Rocks)

🏨 Resorts and Hotels Near Cabins, West Virginia

• Yokum Vacationland (Seneca Rocks)
• Smoke Hole Resort (Cabins)
• North Fork Mountain Inn (Petersburg)
• Hampton Inn (Elkins)
• The Hermitage Inn and Taphouse (Petersburg)

Campgrounds Near Chimney Top

If you’re craving a more outdoorsy experience, consider staying at one of the local campgrounds!

I’ll be honest, I love being out in nature, but sleeping in a tent isn’t exactly my favorite thing.

That said, my husband and I still camp from time to time, because even if it’s not the most comfortable night’s sleep, it almost always turns into a memorable adventure.

🏕️ Campgrounds Near Cabins, West Virginia

• Seneca Shadows Campground (Senaca Rocks)
• Big Bend Campground (Petersburg)
• Spruce Knob Lake Campground (Riverton)

Conclusion

My husband and I loved this hike so much! It’s by far one of our favorite hikes in West Virginia.

It’s a bit challenging but doable for most casual hikers, and we even saw families with children hiking this trail!

Just be cautious at Chimney Top as there are steep drop-offs. Have fun and stay safe! 🙏

If this guide inspires you to hike the North Fork Mountain Trail to Chimney Top, I’d love to hear about your adventure. Leave a comment and share your experience!

Enjoyed this post? Pin for later!