Cathedral State Park

David Sibray examines a giant hemlock at Cathedral State Park near Aurora, West Virginia, in southern Preston County.

Groves of ancient hemlock reach as high as 90 feet above the forest floor at Cathedral State Park, a 133-acre woodland preserve listed in the National Registry for Natural History Landmarks. The plat of evergreen was sold to the state in 1942, with the provision that it remain “untouched by ax or saw.”

More than 170 species of plant have been cataloged at Cathedral, including nine of fern, three of club moss, more than 30 of tree, and more than 50 of wildflower. Many are observable from the six miles of trail that wander the densely wooded park. A playground and a picnic area with two shelters and public restrooms are also available for park guests.

Directions: Cathedral State Park is located south of Terra Alta, WV, in southern Preston County in the Allegheny Highlands Region of northern West Virginia.The park is located just beyond the northern extent of the Monongahela National Forest.

Hotels near Cathedral State Park

Terra Alta (WV) Hotels

Attractions near Cathedral State Park

Timberline Ski Area
Fairfax Stone State Park
Canaan Valley Resort State Park
Blackwater Falls State Park
Cransville Swamp Natural Area
Briery Mountain Wildlife Management Area

Cathedral State Park
12 Cathedral Way
Aurora, WV 26705-9631
CSP Website
Phone: (304) 735-3771