Cathedral State Park
Aurora, WV
Cathedral State Park is an ancient hemlock forest of majestic proportions, and one of the last living commemorations of the vast old-growth hemlock forest that once flourished in the Appalachian highlands.
Trees up to 90 feet tall and 16 feet in circumference from cloisters in the park. Throughout the woods, eastern hemlock is the dominant species. The 133 acre park is located on Rt. 50, in Preston County, in northeastern WV. The region is hilly to mountainous, but the park is located on rather gently sloping ground with an elevation varying from 2460 to 2620 feet.
More than 170 species of vascular flora have been cataloged, including: Nine species of fern; three species of club moss; more than 30 tree species; and more than 50 species of wildflowers.
Cathedral offers 6 miles of hiking trails. The combination of ancient Hemlocks, rhododendrons, ferns, mountain stream, and wildlife offers excellent hiking and photography opportunities.
The Cathedral Trail follows Rhine Creek through the forest allowing the opportunity to see a variety of plant and tree species.
Cathedral has a picnic area with two shelters and a playground area. Shelters may be reserved by calling the park office. Restrooms are also located in the picnic area.
Nearby Attractions:
Nearby Attractions:
Trip Inspiration
This Small West Virginia Town Plays a Big Role in ‘Captain America: Brave New World’
West Virginia is no stranger to making it on the big the screen lately, and now, the Mountain State is mentioned in a Marvel movie – Capt...
Read MoreThese 4 West Virginia Towns Made It to the Big Screen
If you are a film fanatic, chances are good that you have caught a scene or two that was shot in West Virginia without even realizing it. W...
Read MorePlan Your Spring Whitewater Rafting Adventure in West Virginia
After a long and chilly winter, the roaring rapids of West Virginia rivers are ready to set the stage for an epic, adrenaline-filled whitew...
Read MoreDid You Know You Can Visit 5 Waterfalls in One Day in West Virginia?
Nothing completes a West Virginia road trip like checking off waterfalls on the West Virginia Waterfall Trail. Whether you're looking to ea...
Read MoreCatching Spring Fever? Let West Virginia Waterfalls Be Your Cure
After a frosty winter in Almost Heaven, the waterfalls are eager to roar back to life. Whether you're into waterfalls with scenic hikes or ...
Read MoreThese 8 West Virginia Mountain Towns are Calling Your Name this Spring
Crowd-free is a way of life in the mountain towns of West Virginia, and mountain towns here will never leave you hanging. Here, you will ex...
Read MoreA Solo Traveler's 48-Hour Adventure in the Potomac Highlands of West Virginia
Imagine a backdrop where it's just you, an open country road and the mountains of Appalachia in one place. This picture will come to life w...
Read MoreJoin a West Virginia Fanbase and Cheer On These 6 Sports Teams
Known for its recreation wonders and thriving small towns, West Virginia is also a vibrant sports hub. From Saturday night D1 college footb...
Read MorePlan Your Most Relaxing Spring Getaway Yet at Berkeley Springs
Charm and relaxation never run dry at Berkeley Springs. This historic West Virginia town is known for its healing thermal waters and one-of...
Read More
