What to Do Before the Music Starts
Wild Trails Festival doesn’t just start when the gates open—it’s a full weekend experience. With the festival kicking off each afternoon, you’ve got plenty of time to explore the Greenbrier Valley and the surrounding areas before the music begins.
Whether you’re looking to relax, explore, or get a little adventurous, here’s how to make the most of your time in Wild, Wonderful West Virginia.
🌿 FREE & EASY OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
🚶♂️ Greenbrier River Trail
One of the most scenic and accessible trails in the region, the Greenbrier River Trail stretches for miles along the river and is perfect for walking, biking, or just taking in the views.
👉 Great for: Groups, casual mornings, and all fitness levels
👉 Tip: Jump on for as long or short as you want—no planning needed
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🌊 Blue Bend – Anthony Creek (Greenbrier State Forest Area)
A hidden gem just outside of town, Anthony Creek offers cool mountain water, shaded areas, and a quiet place to relax before the day picks up.
👉 Great for: Cooling off, relaxing, and unplugging
👉 Tip: Bring a chair or towel and take your time
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🌲 Greenbrier State Forest (Caldwell, WV)
Just minutes from Lewisburg, Greenbrier State Forest offers a peaceful escape into the woods with miles of hiking and biking trails, scenic overlooks, and shaded areas perfect for a relaxed morning. Whether you’re looking for a short walk or a longer ride, it’s an easy way to get outdoors without going far.
👉 Great for: Hiking, biking, and a quiet start to your day
👉 Tip: Hit an early trail and still be back in town well before gates open
👉 Pool available with a fee to enter
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🥏 Greenbrier State Forest Disc Golf Course
Free to play disc golf course and open recreation areas.
👉 Great for: Groups looking for something low-key and fun
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🪨 Beartown State Park (Renick, WV)
One of the most unique natural spots in the region, Beartown State Park features a boardwalk that winds through massive rock formations, narrow passageways, and moss-covered cliffs. It’s a quick, easy walk that feels completely different from anything else nearby.
👉 Great for: Exploring, photos, and something a little different
👉 Tip: Plan for about an hour—short, memorable, and worth the trip
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🏔️ Droop Mountain Battlefield & Lookout (Hillsboro, WV)
Take a short drive to one of the highest points in the area and enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. Droop Mountain Battlefield offers a mix of history and scenery, with an observation tower that gives you a full panoramic look at the region.
👉 Great for: Scenic views, light exploring, and a quick getaway
👉 Tip: Climb the lookout tower for one of the best views in the region
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🚣♂️ RIVER ADVENTURES & RENTALS
🌊 River City Bikes & River Adventures (Ronceverte, WV)
Located just minutes from Lewisburg, River City offers kayak, tube, bike, and e-bike rentals right along the scenic Greenbrier River.
Perfect for a laid-back morning float or a ride along the river trail with friends.
👉 Great for: Groups, casual adventurers, first-time visitors
👉 Timing: 2–3 hour float or ride before heading to the festival
🛶 Greenbrier River Campground & River Trips (Alderson, WV)
A great option for kayaking, canoeing, and tubing with easy river access and a relaxed atmosphere.
👉 Great for: Slower-paced mornings and easy group planning
🏔️ PREMIUM OUTDOOR EXPERIENCES
🎯 Greenbrier Outfitters (White Sulphur Springs, WV)
For those looking to level up their weekend, Greenbrier Outfitters offers guided outdoor experiences including paddleboarding, hiking, biking, and more.
👉 Great for: Couples, small groups, and those wanting a curated outdoor experience
🌊 EXPLORE A LITTLE FARTHER (WITHIN ~1 HOUR)
🏞️ Summersville Lake (Mount Nebo, WV)
One of the most beautiful spots in West Virginia, Summersville Lake offers clear water, cliff views, and opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, or swimming.
👉 Great for: Swimming, paddling, and unforgettable views
👉 Worth the drive if you’re making a full weekend out of it
🌄 New River Gorge Area (Fayetteville, WV)
Explore one of the newest National Parks with hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and incredible views.
👉 Great for: Hiking, photos, and exploring before heading back for the show
🌊 WHITEWATER RAFTING ADVENTURES
🚣 New River Gorge Whitewater (Fayetteville Area, WV)
Located about 60 minutes from Lewisburg, the New River Gorge is one of the most popular whitewater destinations in the country—and June is a great time to go.
With a mix of scenic stretches and exciting rapids, the New River offers something for everyone—from first-time rafters to experienced crews looking for a high-energy start to the day. Trips range from relaxed floats to Class III–IV rapids, all guided by experienced professionals.
👉 Great for: Groups, first-timers, and anyone looking for a memorable adventure
👉 Timing: Half-day trips available—easy to fit in before heading to the festival
👉 Distance: ~60 minutes from Lewisburg
🔥 TOP OUTFITTERS TO CHECK OUT
Adventures on the Gorge
One of the premier adventure outfitters in the region, offering guided rafting trips, ziplining, lodging, and dining all in one place. A great option if you want a full experience with everything handled for you.
New & Gauley River Adventures
A long-running, family-operated outfitter known for personalized trips and a range of options for all experience levels—from easy floats to more intense whitewater.
ACE Adventure Resort
A popular choice for rafting groups, offering access to the Lower New River Gorge along with additional adventure activities. Great for larger groups looking for a high-energy day.
New River Gorge Outfitters
A smaller, more personalized outfitter experience with guided trips and flexible scheduling—ideal if you’re looking for something a little less commercial.
🍔 EAT, DRINK & RELAX
Downtown Lewisburg and Ronceverte are packed with great local spots to grab lunch, a coffee, or a drink before heading to the festival.
👉 Plan a mid-day stop:
- Refuel
- Meet up with friends
- Relax before the night ahead