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Laurel Fork Wilderness
The Laurel Fork of the Cheat River is characterized by its narrow valley floor with regularly dissected slopes and long narrow ridges. The continuous forest cover of primarily Beech, Maple, Birch, and Cherry is occasionally broken up by beautiful meadows along the river. Within the combined 11,839 acre Wilderness Area the elevations range from 2,900 feet to over 3,700 feet.
Laurel Fork Wilderness has 18.5 miles of trails, many of which follow old railroad grades and logging roads. Several possible loop hikes can made by combining trails. Fords of streams may be a problem to cross during high water events. There may be additional small stream crossings depending on water levels.
Additional Resources
At a Glance
| Restrictions: |
|
|---|---|
| Closest Towns: | Elkins, WV |
| Water: | Purify all water or bring your own. |
| Information Center: | Greenbrier Ranger Station |
General Information
Directions:The Laurel Fork North and South Wildernesses are accessible from the north via U.S. Route 33 east from Elkins or west from Harman to the top of Middle Mountain. Take Forest Road 14 south. This road is the western boundary of both Wildernesses. From the south, take WV 28 east from Bartow to FR 14, and follow Forest Road 14
to the Wilderness area.
Activities
River and Stream Fishing
Regularly stocked with trout by the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources. Also has an accessible fishing area.
A valid West Virginia State Fishing License is required, along with a National Forest stamp, a Conservation stamp, and a trout stamp. Please contact the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources for more information on fishing and hunting licensing requirements.
Day Hiking
Laurel Fork Wilderness has 18.5 miles of trails, many of which follow old railroad grades and logging roads. Listed below are several possible loop hikes. Fords indicate streams that may be a problem to cross during high water events. There may be additional small stream crossings.
Level of difficulty is based on people in average condition. Wilderness trails are not blazed and have very little signage. Good map and compass skills are recommended.
Camp Five Trail #315- 1.6 miles. GPS location of accessible trailhead (38.687554; -79.735683). Stay on established trails even when wet, muddy, or rutted.
- Stay on established trails even when wet, muddy, or rutted.
- Know the weather forecast~ carry a map and compass, first aid kit, food, water and warm clothing.
- Wear proper footwear.
- Purify all water before drinking, or bring your own.
- During hunting seasons, wear blaze orange clothing and remain on trails.
- Always let someone know where you are going.
- Conflicts can be avoided by showing courtesy and respect to other trail users
For trail information see Laurel Fork Wilderness Brochure and Map.
Backpacking
Laurel Fork Wilderness has 18.5 miles of trails, many of which follow old railroad grades and logging roads. Listed below are several possible loop hikes. Fords indicate streams that may be a problem to cross during high water events. There may be additional small stream crossings.
Level of difficulty is based on people in average condition. Wilderness trails are not blazed and have very little signage. Good map and compass skills are recommended.
- Practice Leave No Trace outdoor ethics: do not camp within 200 feet of trails and streams.
- Stay on established trails even when wet, muddy, or rutted.
- Know the weather forecast~ carry a map and compass, first aid kit, food, water and warm clothing.
- Wear proper footwear.
- Purify all water before drinking, or bring your own.
- During hunting seasons, wear blaze orange clothing and remain on trails.
- Always let someone know where you are going.
- Conflicts can be avoided by showing courtesy and respect to other trail users
For trail information see Laurel Fork Wilderness Brochure and Map.
Big Game Hunting
Common animals in the area include whitetail deer, wild turkey, bobcat, beaver, and other water-associated species. A small number of black bear may be seen as well.
A valid West Virginia State Hunting License is required, along with conservation stamps. All state hunting seasons enforced on National Forest lands. Please contact the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources for more information on fishing and hunting licensing requirements.
Small Game Hunting
Small animals such as wild turkey, squirrels, and beaver are common.
A valid West Virginia State Hunting License is required, along with conservation stamps. All state hunting seasons enforced on National Forest lands. Please contact the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources for more information on fishing and hunting licensing requirements.
Game Bird/Waterfowl
Wild turkey are common.
A valid West Virginia State Hunting License is required, along with conservation stamps. All state hunting seasons enforced on National Forest lands. Please contact the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources for more information on fishing and hunting licensing requirements.
Viewing Wildlife
Common animals in the area include whitetail deer, wild turkey, bobcat, beaver, and other water-associated species. A small number of black bear may be seen as well. Small mammals such as chipmunks, squirrels, and raccoons are common. Many songbirds use the area for nesting, migration, and over-wintering.
Viewing Plants
The Laurel Fork area is known for its Northern Hardwood Forest, cold mountain streams, and diversity of flora and fauna. The forest cover mainly consists of Beech, Birch, Cherry, and Maple, with young Red Spruce making an occasional appearance.
The forest floor is lush and green when not covered with snow, and in some locations may be dominated by several species of ferns and lycopodium. There are also planted stands of Red Pine and Norway Spruce within the Wilderness.
Viewing Scenery
The Laurel Fork area is known for its Northern Hardwood Forest, cold mountain streams, and diversity of flora and fauna. The forest cover mainly consists of Beech, Birch, Cherry, and Maple, with young Red Spruce making an occasional appearance.
The forest floor is lush and green when not covered with snow, and in some locations may be dominated by several species of ferns and lycopodium. There are also planted stands of Red Pine and Norway Spruce within the Wilderness.