Prominent Geographical Features of Pocahontas County

 

The sources offer a rich description of the prominent geographical features that shape the landscape of Pocahontas County, West Virginia. These features contribute to the county's unique character, impacting its climate, ecosystems, and human history.

• Mountains: The most striking characteristic of Pocahontas County is its mountainous terrain. The county is situated in the Allegheny Highlands, with the Allegheny Front forming its eastern boundary. The sources highlight several prominent peaks, including:
  • Spruce Knob: The highest point in West Virginia, standing at 4,860 feet above sea level.
  • Bald Knob: Located on Back Allegheny Mountain, it's one of the most prominent peaks in the region.
  • Mace Knob: Situated on Cheat Mountain, known for its scenic beauty and challenging terrain.
  • Droop Mountain: A prominent peak overlooking much of southern Pocahontas County and northern Greenbrier County, with a summit that offers panoramic views.
• Rivers and Creeks: The county's high elevation and mountainous terrain give rise to numerous rivers and creeks that carve through the valleys, creating diverse habitats and shaping the flow of water through the region. Some of the prominent waterways include:
  • Greenbrier River: Originating in the north highlands, it flows through the central portion of the county and is fed by numerous tributaries.
  • Williams River: Situated in the western part of the county, it eventually joins the Gauley River in Webster County.
  • Knapps Creek: Flowing through the eastern limits of the county, it joins the Greenbrier River at Marlinton, forming a fertile alluvial delta.
  • Shavers Fork of Cheat River: A major tributary of the Cheat River, it flows through the northeastern part of the county.
  • Elk River: Originating in the northern part of the county, several of its tributaries, including Dry Fork, Big Spring Fork, and Old Field Fork, create scenic valleys and contribute to the region's diverse topography.
• Valleys: The sources emphasize that the valleys of Pocahontas County, carved out by rivers over millennia, are fertile and suitable for agriculture. The interplay of mountains and valleys creates a visually stunning landscape, offering breathtaking views from various vantage points. Some of the prominent valleys include:
  • Little Levels: Known for its fertile soil and early settlement by prominent families like the McNeels and the Poages.
  • Clover Lick: Located in a valley overlooking Hillsboro, offering scenic views and agricultural potential.
  • Cranberry Glades: A unique wetland ecosystem characterized by its diverse flora and fauna.
  • Renick's Valley: Situated in the southern part of the county, it was home to families like the Gums and is characterized by its agricultural lands.
• Springs: The sources frequently note the abundance of springs in Pocahontas County, a testament to the region's unique geology and ample water resources. Some of the more well-known springs include:
  • Spring-House Spring: Located near the head of Clover Creek, it's known for its purported medicinal properties.
  • Lockridge Spring: Situated near Driscol, it has a local reputation for its health benefits and was even analyzed by a professor from the University of Virginia.
  • Curry Meadow Spring: Located on Back Allegheny Mountain, its waters were once believed to have remarkable effects on infants.

The sources paint a picture of Pocahontas County as a region defined by its rugged mountains, meandering waterways, fertile valleys, and abundant springs. These geographical features contribute to the county's scenic beauty, its ecological diversity, and its potential for both agriculture and tourism.