Appalachian Trail Visitor Center

Learn about the Appalachian Trail and get helpful hiking information at this visitor center in West Virginia.

The Appalachian Trail is the longest hiking-only footpath in the world, attracting millions of visitors a year. This trail encompasses over 2,000 miles within 14 states, from Maine to Georgia. The trail is protected by the National Park Service, and it is partnered with private, public, state, and federal programs. Hikers are encouraged to prepare and learn the area before venturing onto the trail.

This Visitor Center is one of the legendary stops along the Appalachian Trail. The welcome sign out front provides an optimal and popular photo op for all travelers.  Hikers can rest from hiking and relax in the comfortable hiker lounge. Hikers can rest, rehydrate, and charge electronics in the provided charging stations here. The lounge displays photo albums of over 30,000 hikers' photos since 1979. 

While you are here, check out the museum, which has unique exhibits, such as the 3D map of the Appalachian Trail. Visitors can also buy trail merchandise and souvenirs from the on-site gift shop. Popular souvenirs include t-shirts, mugs, patches, guide books, and maps. The friendly staff and volunteers are well educated about the center and local area. The staff has been known to give travelers suggestions to nearby historic sites, answer any questions, give tours to small groups, teach training classes, and more. This place is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm and is closed on major federal holidays. Parking options include free two-hour parking behind the building or the metered street parking below the center. Long-term parking for up to two weeks is available with a registered and approved parking permit.