Spotted Salamander Trail

This quarter-mile paved trail runs through the habitat of the spotted salamander, one of the most common amphibians in West Virginia. They may be widespread, but these secretive salamanders are rarely seen by trail visitors. That’s because they spend most of their adult lives hidden in the forest before they return to their birthplace to lay eggs and reproduce in nearby vernal pools every spring.

The Spotted Salamander Trail was opened in 1987 to give physically and visually-challenged hikers equal access to this interpretive nature trail. The trail was renovated in 2016 when rotted sign posts were replaced, guide ropes for the blind were re-installed and new interpretive signs for both sighted and blind guests were added, and the parking lot was paved. In addition, an adaptive playground and restroom were added.

This is a critical habitat for many native species, so take as many photos as you’d like, but please do not touch or pick the wildflowers or disturb the wildlife.

Click on the link below to learn about the interpretive signs along the trail!