Photo by Jay Mantri on Unsplash
Easy

Buffalo Creek Trail

Widen, Ohio · Clay County · lwn · WV State Parks

18-mile trail runs parallel to RR track along Buffalo Creek. Novel "rail-bike" rides opened in 2024 (fee). Trail alongside (or on) tracks most suitable for hikers, popular destination for trout fishermen.

🧭 Get Directions🗺️ Open in OSM
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38.46017, -80.96204
Open in OpenStreetMap

About Buffalo Creek Trail

18-mile trail runs parallel to RR track along Buffalo Creek. Novel "rail-bike" rides opened in 2024 (fee). Trail alongside (or on) tracks most suitable for hikers, popular destination for trout fishermen.

What “Easy” Means

Gentle terrain, well-marked. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

Difficulty is derived from OpenStreetMap’s Swiss Alpine Club (SAC) hiking scale, trail visibility, surface, distance, and elevation gain. Always verify current conditions before heading out.

See more easy trails →All Ohio trails →

What to Pack & Wear

Personalised to this trail’s length, elevation, difficulty, and the live forecast.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    Long-sleeve shirt
    Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
  • 🧥
    Light shell or windbreaker
    Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
  • 👖
    Hiking pants or convertible
    Layer for variable conditions.
  • 🥾
    Trail runners or low boots
    Comfortable, broken in.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection
    Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
  • 🩹
    First-aid kit
    Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
  • 🗺
    Offline map
    Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.

Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.

Trail Safety in Ohio

Trail conditions in Ohio change with weather, season, and fire activity. Closures, washouts, and rerouting are common. Before heading out:

  • Check with the land manager for current conditions and closures
  • Tell someone your plan and expected return time
  • Know your turn-around limits — conditions can change fast
  • Carry the 10 essentials: water, food, navigation, first aid, light, fire, shelter, knife, sun protection, extra clothes

Frequently Asked Questions

How hard is Buffalo Creek Trail?

Buffalo Creek Trail is rated Easy. Suitable for most hikers including families.

When is the best time to hike Buffalo Creek Trail?

Ohio has trail conditions that vary by season. Spring and fall usually offer the best mix of temperature and trail conditions. Check the 5-day forecast above for current outlook. Always verify trail status (closures, washouts, fire restrictions) with the local land manager before going.

Who manages Buffalo Creek Trail?

Buffalo Creek Trail is managed by WV State Parks as part of the lwn network. Check the operator’s website for current permits, fees, and restrictions.

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