A New Trail System in Princeton
Mercer County is full of open spaces and hiking trails, but if you’re looking for a fresh adventure with new views, head to the Gardner Center Trails — the county’s outdoor destination, that is also educational.
Where to Find the Trails
Located at the Mercer County Gardner Center, this 23-acre woodland space in Princeton features six hiking trails ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. The property offers over 6,000 feet of walking paths, making it ideal for families, nature lovers, and casual hikers.
Trail Overview
Four easy trails — Falling Timber Trail, Longwood Trail, Picnic Fire Pit Trail, and Poor Farm Trail — are each under 0.2 miles and connect to other routes on the property. The Mountain Laurel Trail is a moderate 0.4-mile trail with a few rocky patches, while the longest trail, the Gardner Center Trail, stretches 0.5 miles and loops around the entire center.
A Historic Site with Roots in Forestry
The Gardner Center was formerly the U.S. Forest Service’s Forestry Sciences Laboratory, built in 1963 to honor President John F. Kennedy. For decades, the site served as a hub for forestry research, where scientists collected tree samples and planted species for long-term study.
In 2020, the Mercer County Commission acquired the property to preserve both its ecological and historical significance. The original stone-bordered trails remain intact, and informational signage shares details about the site’s legacy.
Trees, Plants, and Wildlife Along the Trails
While exploring the trails, visitors can enjoy a wide range of tree species, native plants, and local wildlife.
Common and Notable Tree Species:
- Eastern white pine
- Red oak
- Black gum
- Chestnut oak
- Black oak
- Scarlet oak
- Red spruce
- Yellow poplar
- Sweet birch
- Shagbark hickory
Rare and Imperiled Tree Species:
- Tamarack – A deciduous conifer with yellow autumn needles that drop in winter
- Eastern hemlock – An evergreen with dark green flat needles and two white stripes on the underside
The trails also feature rhododendrons (West Virginia’s state flower) and sightings of deer, squirrels, chipmunks, and a variety of birds.
When to Visit
The Gardner Center Trails are open year-round and only close for major holidays. Hours are:
- Monday–Friday: 7:30 a.m. – dark
- Saturday– 9:00 a.m. – 6 p.m.
- Sunday -2 p.m.-dark
For more details, visit the Gardner Center’s website.