I’ve tried to do one hiking trail every weekend if possible. While I was searching for a place to hike near Charleston, I found a nice shady trail called Charles and Betty Russell Park Hiking Trail in Ashland, Kentucky. It’s about an hour drive from Charleston, WV. I passed through the quiet neighborhood near King’s Daughters Medical Center and drove to the trailhead on Ashland Avenue. There are a few parking spots around the trailhead, just enough to park a few cars on the side of the road. Once I got out of the car, I could see the trailhead sign right away and began my walk into the woods.
A small getaway inside the city
Unlike most trails that sit deep in state parks or forest preserves, this one feels tucked right inside Ashland itself, it almost feels like the city has its own pocket of wilderness. Within minutes, the noise of the street fades, replaced by birds, rustling leaves, and the steady rhythm of your footsteps. The Charles and Betty Russell Park Loop winds through shaded forest and gently rolling hills.
The entire loop is about 1.8 miles, making it perfect for a short morning, evening walk or the weekend family activities. The path is mostly dirt and gravel, with a few small inclines that give your legs a nice stretch without feeling steep.
What You’ll See
Much of the trail is under a leafy canopy that keeps it pleasantly cool, even on warmer days. Sunlight filters through the trees, and in the fall, the colors would be beautiful. Along certain points, the trail opens to give small glimpses of the city below, a reminder that this quiet green space is only a few blocks away from daily life.
You’ll pass wildflowers, old tree roots, and a few benches where locals stop to rest or read. I met a couple of dog walkers and hikers; everyone seemed to know the trail well, giving it that “neighborhood favorite” feel.
Why It’s Worth the Trip
What I liked most about this trail was how accessible it is. You don’t need to pack a ton of gear or plan an all-day adventure. You can simply show up, walk a loop, and right away feel like you’ve had a dose of nature. For those of us in Charleston looking for new weekend hikes within an hour or so, it’s a perfect little discovery.
It’s also a nice reminder that not every rewarding hike has to come with sweeping cliffs or sharp rocks. Sometimes, the best trails are the ones that exist between neighborhoods, giving you space to think, breathe, and move.
What to Know Before You Go
Trail Length: 1.8 miles (loop)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate: short hills, mostly shaded paths
Elevation Gain: Around 200 feet
Parking: Limited roadside parking near Ashland Avenue trailhead
Footing: Dirt and gravel; can be muddy after rain
Dogs: Allowed, but keep them leashed
Facilities: None at the trailhead
A Small Escape Close to Home
The Charles and Betty Russell Park Trail may not be as famous as West Virginia’s mountain routes, but it offers its own kind of charm, peaceful, local, and easy to reach. If you’re looking for a short weekend hike that combines convenience with quiet natural beauty, this little loop in Ashland is worth adding to your list.
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