Are dogs allowed on Potts Rail Trail?

Yes, dogs are allowed on Potts Rail Trail but must be kept on a leash at all times. Pack out waste and respect wildlife.

Do I need a permit to hike Potts Rail Trail?

No, Potts Rail Trail does not currently require a permit. Still check for seasonal closures or day-use fees with the managing agency before heading out.

How difficult is Potts Rail Trail?

Potts Rail Trail is rated difficult. It is 9.0 miles long with 1,220 feet of elevation gain. Difficulty ratings reflect a combination of distance, elevation gain, and terrain — your experience will depend on your fitness level and trail conditions.

What is the best season to hike Potts Rail Trail?

Potts Rail Trail is best hiked in spring, summer, and fall. Conditions vary year to year — check the trail status and weather forecast before your visit.

Status unknown — verify before visiting

We don't have current condition data for this trail. Check with the land manager before you go.

See West Virginia trail conditions

DifficultOut and Back

Jefferson National Forest/West Virginia

Potts Rail Trail

Waiteville, West Virginia

9.0 mi

Distance

1,220 ft

Elev. Gain

3h 21m

Est. Time

Out & Back

Route Type

Difficult

Difficulty

About This Trail

The Potts Rail Trail is a 9-mile out-and-back trail located in Waiteville, within the Jefferson National Forest. It offers an elevation gain of 1,220 feet, reaching a maximum elevation of 865 meters. The trail's surface is primarily dirt, and it is categorized as difficult due to its terrain and elevation changes. The trail meanders through a forested setting typical of eastern woodlands and provides a remote backcountry experience.

Trail Conditions

Unknown

We have no current condition data for this trail. Check with the operator before you go, and submit a report below if you've been recently.

No recent condition reports. Be the first to share what you see on the trail.

Hazards & Warnings

steep elevation gain

Elevation Profile

Min:696 ft

Max:865 ft

372 ft

Trail Details

Route Type: Out & Back
Surface: Dirt

Official sources & verification

Managed by United States Forest Service

Verify before you go

Managing agency

United States Forest Service
Find offices, alerts, and current orders for this agency.

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Address:WV

Best Seasons

Spring Summer Fall

Highlights

forest setting

Reviews

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Legacy import — verify before navigating

Path geometry came from our pre-launch legacy database. Routes have not yet been re-verified against the operator and may differ from the actual trail.

Status unknown — verify before visiting

Potts Rail Trail

About This Trail

Trail Conditions

Trail Conditions

Hazards & Warnings

Elevation Profile

Trail Details

Best Seasons

Highlights

Reviews

No reviews yet

Nearby Trails

Huckleberry Loop Trail

War Spur Trail

War Branch Trail Loop via Appalachian Trail

John's Creek Mountain Trail

Bald Knob Loop

Mountain Lake Trails Loop

Other trails in Jefferson National Forest

Dragon's Tooth Trail

Sharp Top Trail

The Great Channels via Brumley Mountain Trail

Devil's Marbleyard Via Belfast Trail

Angel's Rest via Appalachian Trail

Roaring Run Hoop Hole Trail

Campgrounds near this trail

White Rocks Campground

Caldwell Fields Group Campground

Eggleston Springs Campground

Whitt Riverbend Park

Boley Field Group Campground

Moncove Lake State Park

Similar trails in West Virginia

North Fork Mountain Trail to Chimney Top

Bear Rocks Trail to Raven Ridge Trail and Dobbin Grade Trail

Paw Paw Tunnel Trail

Spruce Knob via Huckleberry Trail

Seneca Creek Trail

Harpers Ferry to Weverton Trail