National forests in West Virginia showcase the state’s stunning natural beauty and provide endless opportunities for outdoor adventure and relaxation. Home to the vast Monongahela National Forest and parts of the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, West Virginia offers visitors over 900,000 acres of scenic woodlands, rugged mountains, and pristine rivers. Hikers, campers, hunters, and wildlife watchers can explore miles of trails, secluded campsites, and breathtaking overlooks throughout these protected lands. Popular spots like Spruce Knob, Dolly Sods Wilderness, and Cranberry Glades highlight the rich biodiversity and unique landscapes that make West Virginia’s national forests a top destination for nature lovers seeking an authentic Appalachian escape.
RICHWOOD, W.Va. — Officials with the Monongahela National Forest in eastern West Virginia are inviting motorists to explore the forest highlands during National Scenic Drive Day on June 4 at the Cranberry Mountain Nature Center. Off the Highland Scenic Highway near Cranberry Glades and the Falls of Hills Creek, the visitor center is an ideal … Read more
ELKINS, W.Va. — The U.S. Capitol is going wild and wonderful this Christmas as West Virginia comes to the fore as the nation’s forest and outdoor recreation wonderland. In addition to providing the 70- to 80-foot tree that will be displayed on the west lawn of the U.S. Capitol this holiday season, smaller trees are … Read more
ELKINS, W.Va. — In light of dramatic increases in visitation in the Monongahela National Forest in eastern West Virginia, officials are advising guests to plan ahead when arranging to visit the forest, which protects more than 921,000 acres, including vast uninhabited regions. Forest Supervisor Shawn Cochran says the visitors may now find parking areas full … Read more
Weather permitting, officials at the Monongahela National Forest plan to conduct prescribed burns on 1,251 acres in Pocahontas, Greenbrier, and Pendleton counties from March through June. According to Kelly Bridges, a spokesperson for the forest service, the treatments aim to re-establish fire’s natural role in the forest ecosystem, improve forest health and wildlife habitat, and … Read more
Officials with the U.S. Forest Service have unveiled a new logo designed to commemorate the 2023 Capitol Christmas Tree, which will be harvested from the Monongahela National Forest in eastern West Virginia. Amy Albright, project manager for the Christmas tree project, unveiled the design, which draws on the mountain beauty of the Monongahela. “All of … Read more
A volunteer group that helps maintain the scenic Dolly Sods Wilderness in northern West Virginia is looking for additional volunteers to help maintain its trails. The stewards serve as a resource for visitors, helping them have a safe and enjoyable wilderness experience while working to preserve Dolly Sods for future visitors, according to David Johnston, … Read more
ELKINS, W.Va.– The Monongahela National Forest has been selected to provide the 2023 Christmas Tree for the U.S. capitol, kicking off a year-long celebration with the theme of “Endlessly Wild & Wonderful” to connect more Americans to West Virginia’s public lands. The U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree, known as “The People’s Tree” reflecting the nickname for … Read more
PETERSBURG, W.Va. — Roads leading through Dolly Sods in northern West Virginia will close to motor vehicles for the winter beginning on January 3, 2023, according to officials with the Monongahela National Forest. Rangers will close the gates on Forest Roads 19 and 75 to prevent emergencies in the high-elevation environment, according to Jim Morgan, … Read more
ELKINS, W.Va. — Visitors recreating in the Monongahela National Forest over the weekend may see impacts from the remnants of Hurricane Ian, according to National Forest Service officials The National Weather Service predicts heavy rain and high winds in some areas through Monday. The southern half of the national forest has the most potential for … Read more
HILLSBORO, W.Va. — Five hundred miles south of the Canadian muskegs, visitors to the highest mountains in West Virginia may be surprised to find a uniquely similar highland botanical area. Supported by the cool climate of the lofty Allegheny Mountains, the 750-acre Cranberry Glades Botanical Area includes plants that aren’t otherwise found so far south … Read more
