Huntington Museum of Art System

The Huntington Museum of Art is the largest art museum in West Virginia. While this museum is sympathetic enough to the artistic qualities of canines that it once hosted "Fine Arf," an exhibit of dog-themed paintings from the 16th through the 20th centuries, dogs are not allowed inside. However, they are welcome on the trail system that winds through the forested forty acres on the museum's property. You can complete the full loop in under an hour.

To begin your hike, take the Teubert Foundation Sensory Trail that begins at the butterfly garden next to the museum parking lot. It connects to the Tulip Tree Trail, which you should follow for most of its length. As you continue, take the short Spice Bush Trail loop, return to the Tulip Tree Trail, and continue until you reach the Gentle Oak Trail. The Gentle Oak Trail will take you back to a connection point on the Tulip Tree Trail you can take back to the Sensory Trail and the parking lot.

While this short, gentle trail loop is perfect for a quick exercise break, its primary feature is its beautiful visuals. It passes through natural woodlands and a scenic ravine where little streams trickle through. It can be muddy in the spring, when wildflowers are also abundant. You might spot a deer or two and will be surrounded by the sounds of singing birds. Several species of deciduous hardwoods cluster closely together in this dense, shady forest that feels surprisingly wild to be such a short distance from a museum's parking lot! The filtered light and the unique carved stone faces you'll find all along the trail will make you feel like you've escaped to some place out of a fairy tale.

Whether you use the Huntington Museum Trail System for a quick hike break or part of a longer day of exploring, you're sure to be delighted by the whimsy and magic of this unique place.