We love a good hike with a view, and the Cranny Crow overlook hike via the White Oak Trail in Lost River State Park is definitely one of them.
On a trip to Virginia, we decided to drive to Lost River State Park to check out this well-known trail. The two-mile trail leads to a beautiful overlook where, on a clear day, you can see up to five counties!
In addition to the gorgeous views, the Cranny Crow Overlook is one of the spots where you can find an Almost Heaven swing. That means West Virginia deemed this overlook “Instagram worthy,” and we wholeheartedly agree.
Whether you’re hiking for the view or the “views,” we think the Cranny Crow Overlook is worth the effort. Below, you can learn more about what to expect on the hike, including where to park and other things to do nearby. So, let’s plan your next adventure!
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Things to Know Before You Hike to Cranny Crow Overlook Via White Oak Trail
Limited Cell Service
There is little to no cell service at Lost River State Park in West Virginia. We had a few bars of service at the Cranny Crow Overlook. However, for the majority of the trail and the drive into the park, we had no service. Plan ahead and download a map of the trail ahead of time.
Wildlife
West Virginia is home to many species of wildlife. You might see black bears and poisonous snakes on your hike. Always be aware of your surroundings and watch out for the wildlife.
Pets
Leashed pets are allowed on the trails in Lost River State Park.
Horses
The White Oak Trail to Cranny Crow is a shared horse and hiking trail. You might encounter horses or their droppings along the trail.
Be a Responsible Visitor
Remember, as you visit this park, to respect nature. Stay on established paths, pack out your trash (including food waste), and leave what you find behind.
The more popular these destinations become, the more we need to be diligent about keeping our parks and lands clean and safe for all. You can learn more here.
Fees for Visiting Lost River State Park
There are no fees to visit any of the state parks in West Virginia, and based on a 2017 decision, it will stay that way for a while.
Amenities at Lost River State Park
The stables were closed when we hiked the White Oak Trail to Cranny Crow Overlook. I don’t know if bathrooms are available at that location.
However, restrooms are on Park Drive, next to the recreation building and playground. There is also a bathhouse next to the pool along Park Drive.
Parking for the Cranny Crow Overlook Hike
There are several parking areas within Lost River State Park. However, the White Oak Trail does not have a specified parking area.
During the off-season, visitors can park at the stables on Dove Hollow Road. There are two designated spots where visitors can park when the stables are active. Otherwise, you can also park along the road in front of the stables to access the trailhead.
Hike to Cranny Crow Overlook Via White Oak Trail
| Trail Location: | The White Oak trailhead is on Dove Hollow Road behind the stables. |
| Trail Length: | It is about 2 miles to the overlook (4 miles total) |
| Trail Difficulty: | Moderate – it is steep in some sections, but the switchbacks ease the difficulty |
| Trail Type: | Out and back |
| Elevation Gain: | 1010 feet |
| Dog Friendly: | Yes |
White Oak Trailhead
The trailhead for the White Oak Trail is right behind the stables on Dove Hollow Road. You’ll see a sign at the top of the driveway. From there, you’ll follow the trail to the right, up the hill.
What to Expect on the White Oak Trail
The White Oak trail features several switchbacks over the almost 2 miles to the Millers Rock Trail. The trail can be very steep in sections, but they level out. We needed a few breaks on our route up.
There are many rocks and roots to navigate along the trail. And, since this is a shared trail with horses, you’ll want to watch for horse droppings along the route.
Follow the orange blazes to stay on the trail. Several unofficial steep trails cut off the switchbacks.
Once you reach the Millers Rock Trail intersection, head right and follow the last part of the trail to the overlook.
White Oak Trail Shelter
About halfway up to the Cranny Crow overlook is a shelter that has a beautiful view, especially when the trees are bare. This is a perfect spot to stop, rest, drink water, and eat a snack since the shelter has a bench.
Cranny Crow Overlook
At the Cranny Crow Overlook, you’ll find a stone shelter that overlooks five different counties, from Shenandoah County, VA, to your left and all the way to Hardy County, WV, on your right.
You’ll also find one of the Almost Heaven swings, West Virginia’s way to show off the state’s most Instagrammable places. We had fun swinging on the one at Coopers Rock State Forest.
Other Hikes in Lost River State Park
There are 20 different hiking trails in Lost River State Park. Some of them connect to the White Oak Trail. You can combine the below trails with the White Oak Trail to make a longer loop.
- From the Cranny Crow Overlook, you can continue on Millers Rock Trail for 3/10 miles to Cheeks Rocks, another popular overlook.
- The Virginia View Trail connects Millers Rock to Big Ridge Trail. It’s about 6/10 miles long.
- You can take the Big Ridge Trail as an alternate and longer route to Cranny Crow Overlook. Access the trail from Lower Fire Tower Road and follow it to either Virginia View Trail or Millers Rock Trail.
The Almost Heaven Swing at Lost River State Park
When West Virginia introduced the Almost Heaven swings in 2022, they were an immediate hit.
Originally, nine swings were placed at some of the most “Instagrammable locations” in West Virginia. Since then, nine more have popped up, including the Coopers Rock State Forest and the overlook at Cranny Crow in Lost River State Park.
The swings are set up so you can take a selfie or have someone take a photo for you. Even though there are several beautiful spots to take a photo with the Almost Heaven swings, this might be one of the best!
If you want to take a photo at the Almost Heaven swing in Lost River State Park, you’ll have to hike up the White Oak Trail to the Cranny Crow Overlook, about two miles to the top. It’s one of the most challenging swings to get to. More information about the trail is below!
Other Things to Do in Lost River State Park
There are plenty of activities in Lost River State Park to keep you busy.
Swimming
The pool at Lost River State Park is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, Tuesdays through Sundays. Hours vary depending on the day. Weekday hours are 12:15 pm -5:45 pm, and weekend hours are 10:30 am to 5:45 pm.
Horseback Riding
Guiding riding is available seasonally at Hidden Trails Stables on Dove Hollow Road. They are open Memorial Day through Labor Day and weekends (Saturday and Sunday) in April, May, September,, and October.
Private riding is allowed, but you must register with the park office.
Recreation
Lost River State Park has tennis courts, a volleyball court, an archery range, badminton, and horseshoes, as well as several playgrounds and a family fitness trail.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Hike to Cranny Crow Overlook
Is there a fee for Lost River State Park?
There is no fee to enter Lost River State Park or any other state parks in West Virginia.
How long is the hike to Cranny Crow Overlook?
The hike to the Cranny Crow Overlook is just over 2 miles. The trail is steep in sections.
Wrapping Up Our Hike to the Cranny Crow Overlook
After visiting Coopers Rock State Forest and getting a photo at the Almost Heaven swing there, I have been aiming to find them throughout the state. Fortunately, the hike to Cranny Crow offered beautiful views in addition to the swing!
We enjoyed the hike on the White Oak Trail to Cranny Crow. The trail’s steepness was a fun challenge, but it wasn’t too difficult for our family to conquer.
With the park being so close to the Virginia border, the trail isn’t too far of a drive from the Shenandoah Valley and would also be a fun day-trip hike from Washington, DC.
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