The best walks and hikes in Monongahela National Forest

The Bear Rocks, Beaver Dam, and Dobbin Grade Loop offers a truly wild hiking experience in West Virginia's Dolly Sods Wilderness. You'll traverse varied terrain, from open balds with sweeping mountain views at Bear Rocks to dense forests and extensive muddy bogs, especially along the Dobbin Grade Trail. Expect to encounter numerous creek crossings and prepare for wet feet, as the trail is infamous for its challenging, often ankle-deep, muddy conditions that define this unique high-altitude landscape. This moderate 4.5-mile (7.2 km) hike, with 345 feet (105 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 2 hours, but the conditions can make it feel much longer.

Before heading out, be sure to check current trail conditions, as heavy rains can make parts of the route, particularly the Dobbin Grade Trail, very difficult to navigate. Waterproof boots and gaiters are highly recommended for this adventure. The trailhead is generally accessible, but it's always wise to arrive prepared for the remote nature of the Dolly Sods Wilderness. Remember that Dolly Sods was a WWII training ground, so never touch any suspicious metal objects you might encounter.

What makes this loop stand out is its unique ecosystem, resembling parts of Canada with its high-elevation pine and red spruce forests. The trail follows an old logging railroad grade, adding a historical dimension to your journey through an area known for distinct plant communities and the potential for wildlife sightings like black bears. The extensive beaver dams create large ponds and wet areas, contributing to the trail's defining character and making it a memorable, albeit muddy, exploration of Monongahela National Forest.

The Bear Rocks, Raven Ridge, and Dobbin Grade Trail offers a truly distinctive hiking experience, transporting you to a high-altitude, tundra-like environment that feels far removed from typical West Virginia landscapes. You'll traverse windswept rock outcrops, heath barrens, and sphagnum bogs, with the ground underfoot a mix of dirt and striking white sandstone formations. The highlight is undoubtedly the panoramic vistas from Bear Rocks, where you can gaze out over the South Branch Potomac River, but the journey through stunted red spruce and unique "rock streams" is equally captivating.

This moderate 5.7-mile (9.2 km) hike, with 470 feet (143 metres) of elevation gain and an estimated duration of 2 hours and 32 minutes, requires some preparation. The Dobbin Grade Trail section is particularly known for being very wet and muddy, sometimes ankle-deep, so waterproof footwear is essential. As part of the Dolly Sods Wilderness, it's important to stay on marked trails due to its historical use as an artillery training area. Arriving early is always a good idea to secure parking at the trailhead.

What makes this trail truly stand out is its unique subalpine heathland ecosystem, a rare find in West Virginia, resembling landscapes much further north. Beyond the dramatic geology and sweeping views, the area is a haven for unique plant communities and rare animal species, including snowshoe hares and saw-whet owls. It's a chance to experience a slice of wilderness that feels both ancient and otherworldly, offering a profound connection to nature.

The Bear Rocks and Lions Head Loop offers a truly unique wilderness experience within the Dolly Sods Wilderness, feeling more like Canada than West Virginia. This difficult 19.5-mile (31.4 km) hike, with its 1736 feet (529 metres) of elevation gain, takes around 8 hours and 41 minutes to complete, winding through high plateaus, expansive meadows, and distinctive wind-carved sandstone formations. You'll encounter varied terrain, from muddy bogs on the Dobbin Grade Trail to rocky sections along Rocky Ridge Trail, making it a challenging yet rewarding journey for those who love diverse landscapes.

Planning your visit requires some preparation for this demanding route. The loop is a popular backpacking destination, so be aware of numerous established campsites, particularly along Big Stonecoal Trail. It's wise to carry hiking poles to help navigate the rocky sections and muddy areas. Remember to hang bear bags, as bears and coyotes are present in the region. Autumn is a particularly striking time to visit, with vibrant fall foliage adding to the already stunning scenery.

This trail is notable for its iconic vistas, especially the nearly 270-degree panoramic views from Lion's Head and the impressive eastern views from Bear Rocks. The Dolly Sods Wilderness itself is distinguished by its high-altitude, sub-alpine environment. Historically, the area served as a former WWII bomb range, and its preservation is a testament to significant environmental efforts, offering a rich backdrop to your adventure.

Embark on the Breathed Mountain, Rocky Point, Dunkenbarger, and Big Stonecoal Loop, a moderate hike spanning 10.2 miles (16.5 km) with an elevation gain of 868 feet (264 metres). You can expect to complete this journey in about 4 hours and 32 minutes. The route takes you through diverse terrain, from dense pine forests and natural springs to rocky plains and upland bogs. Keep an eye out for impressive features like Lion's Head Rock, offering sweeping vistas of the unique West Virginia landscape.

Planning your hike requires some preparation for this remote area. Be ready for multiple stream crossings, which can become challenging after heavy rainfall, and expect some wet sections, especially on trails like Dunkenbarger. The trails are generally unmarked, so reliable navigation is key. Make sure to download a trail map before you go, as cell service is often nonexistent in the Dolly Sods Wilderness.

This loop offers a deep dive into the Dolly Sods Wilderness, known for its unique high-altitude plateau environment. You will traverse landscapes shaped by ancient logging, with sections like the Big Stonecoal Trail following old corridors. The area is characterized by its distinctive mix of rocky plains, upland bogs, and beautiful meadows, making it a truly special place to explore.