Monongahela National Forest and Seneca Rocks

With elevations ranging from around 1,000 feet to 4,863 feet above sea level, the Monongahela National Forest offers beautiful views, wildlife, and the highest point in the state. The variety of terrain and rainfall across its more than 900,000 acres gives it one of the most diverse forest ecosystems in the country, supporting more than 225 bird species; 75 species of trees; and 70 fish species, both game and non-game.

Seneca Rocks is one of the best-known landmarks in West Virginia. These rocks have long been noted as a scenic attraction and are popular with rock climbers. The park are designated as the Spruce Knob-Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area, offering some of the best traditional multi-pitch technical climbing on the east coast. Seneca Rocks Trail is actually a well-maintained hiking trail to an observation platform with a gorgeous view of the rock faces.

Benches along the trail make great places to catch your breath. The trailhead features picnic areas and a visitor center. Some routes are moderate, but experts are challenged by the exposed summit pinnacle. You don’t need to be a climber to enjoy the park. Non-climbers can visit the Seneca Rocks Discovery Center, stay in the campgrounds at Seneca Shadows and Big Bend, go fishing, or hike and spot birds in the park’s thousands of acres of wildlands.

Official site: http://www.fs.usda.gov/mnf

Address: 200 Sycamore Street, Elkins, West Virginia

Phone: (304) 567-2827

Entrance fee: N/A

Google rating: 4.5/5.0