Nestled in the heart of Monongahela National Forest, the Allegheny Mountain Trail offers hikers a breathtaking journey through some of the most stunning landscapes in West Virginia. This 23-mile trail winds its way through dense forests, over babbling streams, and up to the summit of Spruce Knob, the highest point in the state. With its challenging terrain and stunning vistas, the Allegheny Mountain Trail is a must-do for any avid hiker looking to explore the beauty of the Appalachian Mountains.
Need to know
Trail Highlights
- The trail is located in the Allegheny Mountains, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- The trail passes through diverse ecosystems, including deciduous forests, meadows, and wetlands.
- Wildlife sightings, including black bears, white-tailed deer, and various bird species, are common along the trail.
- The trail features several historic sites, including old logging camps and abandoned homesteads.
- The trail is part of the larger Allegheny Trail System, which spans over 300 miles and offers a variety of hiking experiences.
- The trail is well-maintained and offers a range of difficulty levels, making it accessible to hikers of all skill levels.
- The trail passes through several state parks and forests, providing opportunities for camping and other outdoor activities.
- The trail is known for its wildflowers, with a variety of species blooming throughout the spring and summer months.
Total distance: 13.1 mile (23km)
Elevation gain: 383 ft (117m)
Difficulty: 3/5
Local Campgrounds
Camping in the Allegheny Mountain Trail area is a great option for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The best time of year to go camping in this area is during the summer months, from June to August when the weather is warm and sunny. However, from September to November, camping during the fall season can also be enjoyable as the foliage changes color and the temperatures become cooler.
These are some camping options in the area
1. Seneca Shadows Campground – located in Seneca Rocks, WV, this campground offers tent and RV sites, as well as cabins. It is situated in a beautiful wooded area and has access to hiking trails and rock climbing.
2. Spruce Knob Lake Campground – located in the Monongahela National Forest, this campground offers tent and RV sites, as well as cabins. It is situated near Spruce Knob, the highest point in West Virginia, and has access to hiking trails and fishing.
3. Blackwater Falls State Park Campground – located in Davis, WV, this campground offers tent and RV sites, as well as cabins. It is situated near Blackwater Falls, which is a popular attraction in the area. The campground also has access to hiking trails and fishing.
4. Dolly Sods Wilderness Area – located in the Monongahela National Forest, this area offers primitive camping and backpacking opportunities. It is known for its unique landscape and offers access to hiking trails and fishing.
5. Smoke Hole Canyon – located in Cabins, WV, this area offers primitive camping and RV sites. It is situated near the South Branch Potomac River and offers access to fishing and kayaking.
Other Activities:
In addition to hiking, there are many other ways to discover this beautiful wildness. If you are planning a trip to Allegheny Mountain Trail be sure to consider some of the following:
– Mountain biking
– Camping
– Fishing
– Hunting
– Wildlife watching
– Rock climbing
– Canoeing/kayaking
– Horseback riding
– Snowshoeing
– Cross-country skiing
– Birdwatching
– Photography
– Geocaching
– Stargazing
Allegheny Mountain Trail FAQS
Are dogs allowed? Yes, dogs need to be kept on a leash in the Allegheny Mountain Trail area.
Is the trail well signed? Yes, this trail is marked with blue blazes.
