Monongahela National Forest!

The Monongahela National Forest is located in the rugged mountains of West Virginia, is a hidden gem for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Covering nearly a million acres, this vast forest is a sanctuary of natural beauty, offering diverse landscapes that range from rolling hills to dense woodlands, rivers, and stunning cliffs. Whether you’re here for hiking, camping, or simply to soak in the serene environment, we’ll showcase the best things to do in Monongahela National Forest during your visit to West Virginia.

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1. Must-See Attractions

Seneca Rocks

Towering close to 900 feet over the North Fork River, Seneca Rocks is a unique rock formation stands out in the landscape and draws in visitors who love the outdoors. The area is best known for rock climbing, with over 375 climbing routes ranging from beginner-friendly paths to advanced technical climbs. The Seneca Rocks Hiking Trail offers a 1.3 mile route leading to an observation platform near the top, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding valley. The rocks are made of Tuscarora quartzite, a durable stone formed over 440 million years ago, giving them their rugged appearance.

Spruce Knob

The Spruce Knob is the highest point in West Virginia at 4,863 feet, providing a breathtaking views, hiking and camping. At the summit, the Spruce Knob Observation Tower provides a 360-degree view of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making it a great spot for sightseeing. The Whispering Spruce Trail, a short half-mile loop, lets visitors explore the summit while learning about the ecosystem through interpretive signs. Strong winds in the area shape the red spruce trees, causing them to grow in one direction, and is filled with blueberry and huckleberry plants, reflecting seasonal colors.

Canaan Valley

The Canaan Valley is a high-elevation valley in northeastern West Virginia, known for its scenic landscapes and outdoor activities. The valley sits at an elevation of 3,200 feet, making it one of the highest large valleys east of the Mississippi River. It is home to Canaan Valley Resort State Park, which offers hiking, biking and skiing throughout the year. The Blackwater River flows through the valley, creating wetlands and supporting diverse plant and animal life. The area is part of the Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge, which protects local habitats and provides several trails for visitors to explore.

Elk River

Flowing through Monongahela National Forest, Elk River begins in Pocahontas County, where two streams, Big Spring Fork and Old Field Fork, come together near Slatyfork. It passes through Randolph, Webster, Braxton, Clay and Kanawha Counties, covering 172 miles before joining the Kanawha River in Charleston. The river also has a unique stretch called “The Dries,” where water disappears underground for about five miles, leaving behind a dry rock bed. Kayaking and canoeing are popular, especially in the higher elevation sections, where the water is crystal-clear and surrounded by forest hills.

Shavers Lake

Located near Snowshoe, Shavers Lake is a peaceful spot for outdoor activities sits at the base of Snowshoe Mountain, offering a quiet setting for kayaking, paddleboarding and fishing. The Shavers Lake Trail, a 1.6 mile loop, circles the water, providing an easy path for walking and enjoying the views. The area is surrounded by forests, creating a relaxing atmosphere for visitors. The lake is known for its clear water, making it a great place for swimming during warmer months. The lake is also part of the Snowshoe Mountain Resort, which offers additional activities like skiing and scenic chairlift rides.

Revenge of the Rattlesnake

The Revenge of the Rattlesnake is a long-running mountain bike race held in Monongahela National Forest. The race stretches about 40 miles, it starts and finishes in Davis. Riders take on a challenging course through Canaan Mountain, navigating rocky trails, steep climbs and muddy paths. The route changes every year, keeping the race exciting with unpredictable tracks. The terrain is rugged, with roots, rocks and stream crossings, making it a tough ride even for experienced cyclists. The trails are well-marked, but riders must be prepared for sudden elevation changes and technical sections.

Gaudineer Scenic Area

Located at an elevation of about 4,000 feet, Gaudineer Scenic Area covers 140 acres, with 50 acres of untouched forest that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. The trees here are over 300 years old, with some reaching 40 inches in diameter, making it a rare example of West Virginia’s original highland forests. The area is home to a mix of red spruce, yellow birch, beech and maple trees. Visitors can explore hiking trails, which offer quiet paths through the forest, perfect for a relaxing walk. The site is also a National Natural Landmark, recognized for its ecological importance in the region.

2. Iconic Landmarks

Seneca Rocks Discovery Center

The Seneca Rocks Discovery Center offering visitors a great starting point to explore the area, providing interpretive exhibits, a gift shop and educational programs, helping visitors learn about the geology, history and outdoor activities nearby. The view from the center showcases the towering rock formation, which rises nearly 900 feet above the valley. A 1.3 mile trail leads to an observation platform, giving hikers a closer look at the rocks. The center hosts weekend programs from Memorial Day to Labor Day, featuring traditional Appalachian crafts, music and living history demonstrations.

Cranberry Glades Botanical Area

Covering 750 acres, Cranberry Glades Botanical Area is a unique wetland known for its boreal-type bogs, which are more common in northern regions like Canada. These bogs formed thousands of years ago, creating a rare ecosystem with peat-covered ground and acidic soil. The boardwalk trail, stretching 1.5 miles, allows visitors to explore the area without disturbing the fragile environment. Visitors can see carnivorous plants like purple pitcher plants and sundews, which trap insects for nutrients. The area is also a part of National Radio Quiet Zone, which means cell service in the forest is limited.

Highland Scenic Highway

The Highland Scenic Highway is a 43 miles route through Monongahela National Forest, offering views of mountains, valley and forests. The highway runs from Richwood to U.S. Route 219, passing through State Routes 39 and 150. The road climbs from 2,325 feet near Richwood to over 4,500 feet, making it one of the highest scenic drives in the region. Visitors can stop at four overlooks, including Williams River, Big Spruce, Little Laurel and Red Lick, each providing panoramic views. The highway passes near Summit Lake, a peaceful spot near Falls of Hills Creek, where visitors can see three waterfalls.

Canaan Valley Resort State Park

Located in Canaan Valley, Canaan Valley Resort State Park is one of the highest mountain valleys in the eastern United States at 3,100 feet. Warmer months are great for hiking, biking, fishing and spotting wildlife, while winter brings opportunities for skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing. The resort features 160 guest rooms, cabins and campsites, providing options for different types of stays. The 18-hole golf course, designed by Geoffrey Cornish, offers a relaxing way to enjoy mountain scenery. The resort also has a scenic chairlift, giving visitors a chance to enjoy panoramic views of the valley.

Harman’s Luxury Log Cabins

Located in Hopeville Canyon, Harman’s Luxury Log Cabins sits along the North Fork River, between North Fork Mountain and Dolly Sods, providing easy access to outdoor activities. Guests can enjoy hiking, fishing and exploring nearby attractions like Seneca Rocks, Blackwater Falls and Smoke Hole Caverns. The resort features one- to four-bedroom cabins, each fully furnished with a fireplace, kitchen and private outdoor hot tub. Some cabins also have indoor Jacuzzi tubs, making them ideal for a romantic retreat. The area is also known for trophy trout fishing, with private stream access for anglers.

Bickle Knob Observation Tower

Located at an elevation of 4,003 feet, Bickle Knob Observation Tower provides a 360-degree panoramic view, making it a great spot for sightseeing. Originally built as a fire tower, it now serves as a viewing platform where visitors can take in the landscape. The tower is simple to reach, with just a short walk from the parking lot. The area is known for its quiet atmosphere, making it a great place for photography, birdwatching, and enjoying nature. The observation tower is open during daylight hours, but visitors should check road conditions and get route maps, as access may be limited in winter.

Bickel Knob

Sitting at an elevation of 4,003 feet, Bickel Knob offers wide views of the surrounding forests and valleys. The Bickel Knob Observation Tower, once a fire tower, now serves as a viewing platform where visitors can take in 360-degree panoramic views of the landscape. The drive to Bickel Knob follows Forest Road 91, a gravel road that passes through the forest. The area is also known for its quiet atmosphere, making it a great spot for photography, birdwatching and enjoying nature. Nearby, the Otter Creek Wilderness offers hiking trails and stream fishing, offers an additional outdoor experience.

Olson Observation Tower

The Olson Observation Tower is one of the last remaining fire towers in Monongahela National Forest, standing at 3,736 feet on Backbone Mountain. Built in 1963, it replaced the state’s first fire tower, originally constructed in 1922, and was named after Ernst B. Olson, who has dedicated 28 years to control the forest fire. The tower has 133 steps leading to the top platform, offering panoramic views of Blackwater Canyon, Canaan Mountain and Cheat River watershed. To get there, visitors can take Forest Road 18 from U.S. Route 219, then from there follow Forest Road 717 to the parking area.

3. Natural Attractions

Blackwater Falls

Located in Blackwater Falls State Park, Blackwater Falls is one of the most photographed spots in the state. The Blackwater River drops 57 feet, forming a distinct waterfall with deep amber-colored water, tinted by tannic acid from fallen needles of hemlock and red spruce trees. Visitors can take wooden steps down to the falls or view them from designated platforms. Visitors can explore Elakala Falls, Lindy Point and Pendleton Point Overlook, each offering beautiful views of the forest landscape. In winter, the park has the longest sledding magic carpet, making it a popular spot for seasonal activities.

Smoke Hole Canyon

The Smoke Hole Canyon stretches for 20 miles through Allegheny Mountains in eastern West Virginia, shaped over time by the flowing waters of South Branch Potomac River. It sits between North Fork Mountain and Cave Mountain, creating steep rock walls that rise over 1,000 feet in some areas. The Canyon lies within the Spruce Knob–Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area, though certain areas are privately owned. The name “Smoke Hole” has different stories behind it — some say Native Americans used the caves to smoke meat, while others believe moonshiners once hid their stills in the area.

Cranberry Wilderness

Spanning 47,815 acres across Pocahontas and Webster Counties, Cranberry Wilderness is one of the largest wilderness areas in Monongahela Forest. The wilderness includes Middle Fork of the Williams River and the North Fork of the Cranberry River, both offering scenic views and good fishing spots. The landscape varies in height, stretching from 2,400 feet up to more than 4,600 feet, forming a combination of valleys and towering ridges. The North-South Trail, North Fork Trail and Middle Fork Trail are popular routes, passing through Appalachian hardwood forests and red spruce woodlands.

Spice Run Wilderness

The Spice Run Wilderness stretches across 6,030 acres in Greenbrier County, offering a remote and more rugged landscape. It sits along the Greenbrier River, with elevations ranging from 2,000 to 2,800 feet. Spice Run has no marked trails, making navigation more challenging. Visitors must rely on maps and compasses to explore the landscape, which includes oak, hickory, maple and hemlock forests, along with rhododendron thickets and grassy meadows. These roads are rough and not recommended for regular vehicles, so high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicles are best for reaching the area.

Laurel Fork Wilderness

The Laurel Fork Wilderness is a quiet and remote area known for its untouched landscapes, rugged trails and peaceful streams. The wilderness runs along Laurel Fork of the Cheat River, covering high-elevation terrain with Middle Mountain rising to the west. It is divided into North and South sections, separated by Forest Road 423, which crosses the river at Laurel Fork Campground. The area has unmarked trails, offering a true backcountry experience for hikers looking for solitude. The 8.8 miles of Laurel River Trail passing through the valley, weaving past rocky streams, wetlands and forest paths.

Dolly Sods Wilderness

Covering 17,371 acres, Dolly Sods Wilderness features rocky plateaus, heath barrens and sphagnum bogs, creating a landscape more common in Canada. The wilderness sits at elevations ranging from 2,500 to over 4,700 feet, offering wide views of Allegheny Mountains. The Red Creek Trail, one of the most popular routes, leads hikers through dense forests, streams and waterfalls, making it a great way to explore the wilderness. The land was once used for military training during World War II and unexploded ordnance has been found in the past, so visitors are advised to stay on marked trails.

Big Draft Wilderness

The Big Draft Wilderness covers 5,144 acres in southeastern West Virginia, just south of Blue Bend Recreation Area and about 5 miles north of White Sulphur Springs. Named after Big Draft, a tributary of Anthony Creek, the wilderness features long ridges, steep mountain slopes and narrow summits, with elevations ranging from 1,800 to over 3,100 feet. The forest is mostly oak and hickory, with patches of hemlock and white pine, creating a mix of habitats for local wildlife. The area has a 14 miles trail system open to hikers and horseback riders, offering scenic views and paths through the woods.

Otter Creek Wilderness

Covering 20,698 acres, Otter Creek Wilderness is located in a bowl-shaped valley, formed by Otter Creek, between McGowan Mountain and Shavers Mountain. It was designated as a wilderness area in 1975, protecting its natural beauty and wildlife. The landscape features forests, rocky streams and wetlands, creating a peaceful setting for outdoor activities. The wilderness has 45 miles of hiking trails, with Otter Creek Trail being the longest at 11 miles. The area was once used for logging, but over time, the forest has recovered, making it a great place to see old-growth trees and diverse plant life.

4. Family-Friendly Activities

Scenic Drives

Monongahela National Forest offers some of the most scenic drives in West Virginia, with roads that pass through mountains and valleys. The Highland Scenic Highway, a 43 miles route, runs from Richwood to U.S. Route 219, offering four overlooks where visitors can stop and take in the landscape. Another beautiful drive is through Smoke Hole Canyon, a rugged area shaped by wind and water over millions of years, creating steep rock formations and deep valleys. The Williams River Road follows the Williams River, passing through forested areas and offering access to fishing spots and hiking trails.

Cranberry Mountain Nature Center

The Cranberry Mountain Nature Center is located at the junction of Route 150 and Route 39/55, making it easy to find for visitors exploring the Highland Scenic Highway. Inside, the exhibit hall features interactive displays about the forest, and the center hosts special events, including wildlife presentations and live snake shows. The auditorium offers short films on topics like Smokey Bear, wildflowers and forest conservation, giving visitors a chance to learn more about the region. Visitors can also enjoy a picnic area with scenic views, looking out toward Stamping Creek and the mountains of Virginia.

Waterfalls Viewing

Monongahela National Forest is home to some of the most beautiful waterfalls in West Virginia, offering peaceful spots for visitors to enjoy nature. Douglas Falls is a small but striking waterfall with deep orange rocks, shaped by iron deposits in the water. The Falls of Hills Creek features three waterfalls, with the tallest dropping 63 feet, and a boardwalk trail leading to scenic viewpoints. Elakala Falls, found in Blackwater Falls State Park, consists of a series of cascades flowing over moss-covered rocks. Seneca Creek Falls is located along the Seneca Creek Trail, is a peaceful spot deep in the forest.

Gaudineer Picnic Area

Located on Shavers Mountain, Gaudineer Picnic Area has secluded picnic sites at the end of a half-mile loop trail, which passes through old-growth red spruce trees. Some of these trees are over 300 years old, making this forest one of the few remaining virgin red spruce stands in the region. The Gaudineer Scenic Overlook sits along the trail, offering wide views of surrounding mountains. The Allegheny Trail and West Fork Trail provide more hiking options, with paths leading along Shavers Fork River. The picnic area is open from mid-April to November, but roads may close in winter due to snow.

North Bend Picnic Area

The North Bend Picnic Area is located 8 miles east of Richwood, along State Route 39/55. Located beside the North Fork Cherry River, this spot provides a quiet and relaxing place for visitors to enjoy a meal outdoors. The area has picnic tables, grills, trash cans and two accessible vault toilets, making it a simple and convenient stop for travelers. Camping is not allowed at the picnic area, but Summit Lake Campground is nearby for those wanting to stay overnight. The surrounding forest provides opportunities for hiking, fishing, horseback riding and wildlife viewing, with trails leading to scenic spots.

Camping Sites

Monongahela National Forest offers a variety of camping sites, ranging from developed campgrounds to remote backcountry spots. Snowshoe Valley Camping in Slaty Fork provides a peaceful setting with easy access to outdoor activities. Whittaker Campground, located in Cass, is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a quiet retreat for nature lovers. Snowshoe Campground, also in Slaty Fork, is bordered by creeks and mountains, creating a relaxing environment for campers.

Riverside Campground in Hillsboro is a great option for those looking to camp near the water. Red Creek Campground, found in the Dolly Sods Wilderness, is a popular spot for hikers exploring the rugged trails. Czar Haus Cabins and RV Sites in Helvetia offers riverside camping with scenic views. Other options include Seneca Shadows Campground, which overlooks Seneca Rocks, and Lake Sherwood Recreation Area, where campers can stay near the lake and enjoy fishing and hiking.

5. Outdoor Adventures

Greenbrier River Trail

Stretching for 78 miles through Monongahela Forest, Greenbrier River Trail is a scenic path that provides an opportunity for hiking, biking and horseback riding. Once a railroad line, the trail now offers a peaceful outdoor experience, passing through small towns and open fields. As visitors walking through the route, they pass over 35 bridges and also go through two tunnels — Droop Mountain Tunnel, built in 1900, and Sharps Tunnel, completed in 1899. The gentle elevation makes it accessible for all skill levels, with the highest point at Cass Scenic Railroad State Park and the lowest at Caldwell.

Hiking Trails

Monongahela National Forest has some of the best hiking trails in West Virginia, offering a mix of easy walks and challenging climbs. Seneca Rocks Trail is a 3.6 miles hike leading to an observation platform with a great view of the rock formations. North Fork Mountain Trail is a 24.7 miles route known for its ridge-top views, making it a favorite for backpackers. Bear Rocks and Lions Head Loop is an 18.7 miles trail in Dolly Sods Wilderness, passing through open fields and rocky terrain.

Red Creek Trail is a 7.3 miles hike that leads to Lion’s Head Rocks, a scenic overlook in the wilderness. High Falls Trail is an 8.2 miles route that climbs up Shavers Mountain to a wide waterfall. Greenbrier River Trail is a 78 miles former railroad path, great for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The forest has over 825 miles of trails, with options for all skill levels. Some trails are well-marked, while others offer a true backcountry experience.

Kayaking and Canoeing

Monongahela National Forest offers great spots for kayaking and canoeing, with rivers and lakes that provide both calm waters and exciting rapids. Shavers Fork of the Cheat River passing through remote terrain, offering sections of gentle flows and sometimes challenging rapids, ranging from Class I to Class IV, making it ideal for multi-day paddling adventures. Buffalo Lake is a calm and quiet spot for fishing and paddling, where only electric trolling motors are permitted for a pleasant experience. Outfitters like Blackwater Outdoor Adventures offer guided trips and rentals to explore the waterways.

Mountain Biking

Monongahela National Forest offers great mountain biking trails, with routes that pass through forests, ridges, and valleys. Blackwater Canyon Trail, a 20.6 miles ride, follows the Blackwater River, offering scenic views and waterfalls along the way. Tea Creek Mountain Trail, a 9.7 miles route, is known for its technical terrain, making it a challenge for experienced riders. Cow Pasture Trail is a 7.1 miles ride, passing through dense forest areas and it’s an ideal option for bikers of intermediate levels.

Greenbrier River Trail, a 78 miles former railroad path, is a smoother ride, great for those looking for a long-distance biking experience. The Cranberry River Area has roads that are closed to motorized traffic but open to bikes, providing a quiet ride through the forest. Some trails are well-marked, while others offer a true backcountry experience. Riders should check conditions before heading out, as some areas may be muddy or difficult after rain.

Rock Climbing

Monongahela National Forest offers great rock climbing spots, with routes that challenge both beginners and experienced climbers. Seneca Rocks, one of the most famous climbing areas in the eastern United States, features Tuscarora quartzite cliffs with multi-pitch trad climbs and stunning views. NROCKS Outdoor Adventures, located in Pendleton County, offers guided climbing trips on Nelson Rocks, a unique rock formation with steep fins and exposed routes. Table Rock, found in the Potomac Ranger District, is another great spot, offering scenic climbs with views of the surrounding forest.

Fishing Spots

Monongahela National Forest offers great fishing spots, with rivers, streams, and lakes that provide a variety of fishing experiences. The forest has more than 600 miles of cold-water streams, home to native brook trout, rainbow trout and brown trout. The Greenbrier River is a popular place for smallmouth bass fishing, with calm waters that make it easy to cast a line. The Williams River is another great spot, offering clear mountain streams with stocked trout. Some areas require a West Virginia fishing license, and certain streams have additional regulations to protect fish populations and nature.

Winter Sports

Monongahela National Forest offers great winter sports opportunities, with snow-covered trails, scenic mountain views and backcountry areas. Canaan Valley Resort State Park and Blackwater Falls State Park, provide skiing and snowboarding options for visitors. The Highland Scenic Highway is the only area where snowmobiling is permitted, offering a unique ride through the snowy landscape. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular activities, with miles of ungroomed trails and unplowed forest roads that transform into winter routes, while visitors can find lodging in nearby towns.

Horseback Riding

Monongahela Forest offers great horseback riding opportunities, with trails passing through forests, mountains and valleys. Mountain View Trail is leading riders through open meadows with scenic views of the Allegheny Mountains. Bee Run Trail, stretching 12.5 miles, combines old logging roads and forest paths, creating a challenging ride. Cheat Mountain Trail is a 21 miles route, passes through bogs and high-elevation forests, making it a great long-distance ride. Guided rides are available at Autumn Breeze Stables, Mountain Trail Rides and Hidden Trails Stables, providing options for all riders.

How to Reach Monongahela National Forest

Monongahela National Forest is accessible by car, with major routes including U.S. Route 219, State Route 28, and State Route 55, passing through different sections. Travelers starting in Charleston can head north on Interstate 79, then take U.S. Route 33 east, which leads to Elkins, a key entry point to the forest. The nearest airports are Yeager Airport (CRW) in Charleston, about 100 miles from the southern edge of the forest, and Greenbrier Valley Airport in Lewisburg, both offering rental car services.

Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT), roughly 140 miles from the northern sections, provides more flight options, making it a convenient choice for travelers from farther locations. For those who enjoy a scenic drive, the forest is well connected by highways, making road travel a great alternative. From Washington, D.C., the drive is about 3.5 hours, while Pittsburgh is approximately 2.5 hours away. Those traveling from Washington, D.C., can follow Interstate 66 west, then take Interstate 81 south before heading west on U.S. Route 33.

Local Transportation

Monongahela National Forest is a large and remote area, so visitors rely mostly on personal vehicles to get around. The forest has several main roads, including U.S. Route 219, State Route 28, and State Route 55, which connect different sections. Some roads are paved, but many forest roads are gravel or dirt, making them rough in certain weather conditions. Public transportation options are limited, but travelers can take a bus to Sutton, and drive from there.

Some areas, like Dolly Sods Wilderness, have roads that may close in winter due to snow and ice. The Highland Scenic Highway is a popular route for sightseeing, offering wide views of the mountains. Visitors should check road conditions before traveling, as some roads may be seasonally closed or require high-clearance vehicles. Whether driving through scenic highways or taking backroads into the wilderness, Monongahela National Forest provides a simple and accessible way to explore West Virginia’s natural beauty.

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FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)

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