Hiking

Hardy County’s diverse terrain makes hiking and backpacking both easy and challenging, depending on which trails you decide to try.

The George Washington National Forest and Lost River State Park offer a system of marked trails for hikers of all abilities. Popular trails for those wanting easier hikes include the Rock Cliff Lake Trail at Trout Pond Recreation Area and Cranny Crow in Lost River State Park. There are many more hikes to choose from read more here.

Horseback Riding

Sometimes you need to leave the machines behind and get back to a more natural mode of transportation. The trails and scenic overlooks are calling you to get on your horse and ride. Don’t miss your calling, guided rides mean even the most inexperienced rider can enjoy themselves. Find out more about horseback riding in Hardy County here.

Biking

Scenic country roads winding through open valley hugged by hardwood-covered mountains invite bikers of all skill levels. Whether your passion is trail blazing mountain roads or road biking country hardtop, Hardy County offers West Virginia’s finest touring and backcountry opportunities.

In the eastern part of the county, the George Washington National Forest offers miles of forest roads and trails. Topographical maps can be found at many road side stores. In Lost River, the Lost River State park has opened two trails to mountain biking – East Ridge and Covey Cove. Read more about biking in Hardy County here.

Motorcycle Riding in Hardy County

Bicycling is fun and challenging but sometimes you just need to get your motor running. Hardy County offers some fantastic scenery for the perfect motorcycle road trips and rallies. Mountaineers are always free and freedom is calling you to ride through the mountains of Hardy County and the Potomac Highlands.

So what are you waiting for? Lean into the curve, twist that throttle, and roll on into Hardy County. Click here for more information.

Hunting and Fishing

There’s nothing quite like stocking and capturing your own food and Hardy County is your dream destination for hunting and fishing. Angler’s love fishing the rivers and the Trout Pond. If it’s bigger game you’re after head to one of several wildlife management areas or the George Washington National Forest. Squirrel, wild turkey, whitetail deer, and black bear are not uncommon sites in Hardy County’s many miles of wonderfully wild country.

Find out more information about hunting and fishing Hardy County here.

Boating

Three rivers run through Hardy County the South Branch of the Potomac River, Lost River, and Cacapon River. They offer great fishing, canoeing and swimming. Late fall, winter and early spring (November to April) waters suit whitewater rafting and kayaking. There are several outfitters nearby that work with the Inns and hotels in the area. Click here for more information.

Swimming

Hardy County is blessed with beautiful high-mountain scenery but after hiking or biking your way across the county cool down in a refreshing mountain lake or one of our municipal swimming pools.

The Trout Pond Recreation Area has a great beach but if pools are more your thing there are several at the municipal parks in Moorefield and Wardensville, in Lost River State Park, and at several of the Inns in Hardy County. Find out more about swimming in Hardy County here.

Golf

Hardy County is home to the Valley View Golf Course: Beautiful scenery is the added advantage to this challenging 18-hole course with a USGA course rating of 108/68.0 at the blue tee, 101/65.6 at the white, and 110/65.4 at the red tee. Located on US Route 220 between Moorefield and Petersburg. Contact the Pro Shop at (304) 538-6564 for current fees or visit the web.