Of course. Pocahontas County, often called "Nature's Mountain Playground," is rich with natural beauty, history, and unique scientific locations. Here are 40 notable places, categorized for clarity.
Towns, Villages & Communities
Marlinton - The county seat, located along the Greenbrier River, with shops, restaurants, and the Pocahontas County Opera House.
Hillsboro - A historic town, home to the Pearl S. Buck Birthplace.
Cass - A former company logging town, now the base for the Cass Scenic Railroad.
Durbin - A small railroad town at the northern end of the county, home to the Durbin Rocket.
Green Bank - The community surrounding the Green Bank Observatory, located deep within the National Radio Quiet Zone.
Snowshoe - The mountaintop resort village at Snowshoe Mountain.
Slatyfork - A hub for outdoor recreation, particularly mountain biking, near Snowshoe.
Huntersville - The original county seat, featuring the historic Huntersville Jail.
Arbovale - A small community near the Green Bank Observatory.
Seebert - A village situated directly on the Greenbrier River and Greenbrier River Trail, home to Watoga State Park.
State Parks & Forests
Watoga State Park - West Virginia's largest state park, offering hiking, a lake for boating and fishing, and historic CCC cabins.
Beartown State Park - A park featuring a boardwalk that winds through unique, moss-covered sandstone formations and crevasses.
Cass Scenic Railroad State Park - Encompasses the historic town of Cass, the railroad, and the forests the steam locomotives climb.
Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park - Site of a significant Civil War battle, with a small museum, trails, and a lookout tower.
Seneca State Forest - The oldest state forest in West Virginia, known for its rustic character, Seneca Lake, and the Thorny Mountain Fire Tower.
Calvin Price State Forest - A more primitive and undeveloped forest adjoining Watoga State Park.
Natural Landmarks & Recreation Areas
Cranberry Glades Botanical Area - An ecosystem of bogs resembling arctic tundra, with a boardwalk for easy viewing of unique flora and fauna.
The Falls of Hills Creek - A scenic area with a trail leading to three distinct and beautiful waterfalls.
Greenbrier River Trail - A 78-mile long rail-trail, popular for biking, hiking, and horseback riding.
Highland Scenic Highway - A designated National Scenic Byway offering spectacular views as it winds through the Allegheny Highlands.
Monongahela National Forest - A massive national forest that covers a large portion of the county, offering endless recreation.
Cranberry Wilderness - A federally designated wilderness area for those seeking rugged, remote hiking and backpacking.
Gaudineer Scenic Area - A protected stand of virgin red spruce forest with an interpretive trail.
The Greenbrier River - The longest free-flowing river in the Eastern U.S., ideal for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking.
Williams River - A renowned trout fishing stream.
Shavers Fork of the Cheat River - A high-altitude river that flows through the northern part of the county.
Handley Wildlife Management Area - A public area for hunting, trapping, and fishing.
Watoga Lake - An 11-acre lake within Watoga State Park, used for fishing, paddle boats, and kayaks.
Shavers Lake - A lake at the top of Snowshoe Mountain, used for summer recreation.
Attractions, Museums & Historic Sites
Green Bank Observatory (GBO) - Home to the world's largest fully steerable radio telescope, the Green Bank Telescope (GBT). Offers tours and a science center.
Cass Scenic Railroad - A heritage railway featuring historic Shay steam locomotives that climb the mountain to Whittaker Station and Bald Knob.
Pearl S. Buck Birthplace - The historic home and museum dedicated to the Nobel Prize-winning author in Hillsboro.
Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad - Features the "Durbin Rocket," a steam-powered train that runs along the Greenbrier River.
Pocahontas County Opera House - A restored, historic performance venue in Marlinton.
Cranberry Mountain Nature Center - A visitor center for the Cranberry Glades and surrounding scenic area.
National Radio Quiet Zone - Not a single point, but the entire region where radio transmissions are heavily restricted to protect the GBO. It's a defining feature of the county.
Locust Creek Covered Bridge - A historic covered bridge located just outside of Hillsboro.
Pocahontas County Historical Society Museum - A museum in Marlinton preserving the county's heritage.
Huntersville Jail and Museum - The preserved original county jail, built of stone in the 1880s.
Thorny Mountain Fire Tower - A lookout tower in Seneca State Forest that can be rented for overnight stays, offering unparalleled views.
Of course. Here are 25 more places and points of interest in Pocahontas County, delving deeper into specific recreational spots, overlooks, communities, and unique sites.
Specific Recreation Spots & Trails
Tea Creek Mountain Trail System - A renowned and challenging network of trails near Slatyfork, famous among expert mountain bikers and hikers.
Kennison Mountain Trail - Part of the Cranberry Wilderness, this trail offers a rugged hiking experience through beautiful high-altitude forests.
The Allegheny Trail - A 330-mile long-distance trail that runs north-south through West Virginia, with significant sections passing through Pocahontas County.
Knapps Creek - A major tributary of the Greenbrier River, known for excellent trout fishing, that runs through Marlinton.
Gay-Swinging Bridge - A pedestrian suspension bridge crossing the Greenbrier River in Marlinton, offering a lovely view of the waterway.
Buffalo Lake - A remote lake in the Monongahela National Forest, stocked with trout and accessible via a forest service road.
Edray Fish Hatchery - A West Virginia Division of Natural Resources facility near Marlinton where trout are raised to stock local rivers and streams.
Pocahontas County Country Club - A 9-hole public golf course located just south of Marlinton.
Scenic Overlooks
(These are specific, named overlooks, primarily along the Highland Scenic Highway)
Big Spruce Overlook - A stop on the Highland Scenic Highway offering views of the surrounding spruce forests.
Little Laurel Overlook - Another scenic stop on the highway with expansive westward views and stunning sunsets.
Red Lick Overlook - This overlook provides a unique view looking down into the valley that holds the Green Bank Observatory.
Williams River Overlook - A breathtaking viewpoint looking into the deep valley carved by the Williams River.
Campgrounds & Lodges
Tea Creek Campground - A rustic campground in the National Forest that serves as a popular base for users of the Tea Creek trail system.
Island Campground - A specific and sought-after campground located on an island in the Greenbrier River within Watoga State Park.
Whittaker Station - While a stop on the railroad, this location halfway up the mountain has picnic areas and a small camp for railroad volunteers, representing a destination in its own right.
The General Store at Cass - A massive, historic company store that is now a museum and gift shop, fully restored to its early 20th-century appearance.
Elk River Touring Center - A well-known inn and outfitter in Slatyfork, famous for its cross-country skiing, mountain biking, and food.
Additional Communities & Hamlets
Buckeye - A small community just south of Marlinton, home to the National Youth Science Camp's headquarters.
Edray - A community north of Marlinton, notable for the fish hatchery and its proximity to the Greenbrier River Trail.
Frost - A small community in the "Little Levels" valley; it is often cited as one of the coldest locations in the nation on winter mornings.
Stony Bottom - A riverside community located between Marlinton and Cass.
Lobelia - A tiny, rural community near Beartown and Droop Mountain State Parks.
More Points of Interest & Historic Sites
Stillwell Park - A community park in Marlinton with ballfields and a playground, serving as a local gathering spot.
McNeel Mill Ruins - The stone foundation ruins of a historic gristmill located near Hillsboro, part of the Millstone Trail network.
The C&O Railroad Depot (Marlinton) - The beautifully restored train station in Marlinton that now serves as the visitor center for the county.
Certainly. At this level, we are delving into very specific and granular points of interest that are well-known to locals or those who explore the county deeply. Here are 20 more places in Pocahontas County.
Hyper-Local Communities & Historic Place Names
Minnehaha Springs - A community known for the historic site of a former resort and girls' camp, now a private retreat center.
Clover Lick - A historic station site along the Greenbrier River Trail, once a bustling depot and community.
Sitlington - A small community at the foot of the Green Bank Observatory, named for a historic family.
Thornwood - A community at the northernmost tip of the county on the border with Pendleton County, near the headwaters of the Greenbrier River.
Wildell - The remote, ghost-town site of a former logging community deep in the Monongahela National Forest.
Denmar - The site of the Denmar Correctional Center, which was formerly the state's tuberculosis sanitarium for African Americans, a place of deep historical significance.
Specific Geographic & Natural Features
Mower Tract - A high-elevation section of the Monongahela National Forest on Cheat Mountain, known for its unique ecosystems, birding, and hiking trails.
West Fork of the Greenbrier River - A major tributary that joins the East Fork near Durbin, with its own distinct trail and fishing opportunities.
Thorny Creek - The primary creek flowing through Seneca State Forest, creating the valley where the park's cabins and lake are situated.
Cranberry Mountain - The large mountain massif that is home to the Cranberry Wilderness, Cranberry Glades, and the Highland Scenic Highway. It is a destination in itself.
Michael Mountain - A prominent ridge that runs parallel to the Greenbrier River south of Marlinton.
Specific Buildings, Businesses & Infrastructure
Pocahontas County Airport (87W) - The county's public-use general aviation airport, located near Buckeye.
Hevener's Store - A classic, old-time general store located in the community of Boyer, north of Green Bank.
Dirtbean Cafe & Bike Shop - An iconic local business in Marlinton that serves as a cafe, a bike shop, and a hub for the outdoor community.
Richardson's Hardware - A long-standing, traditional hardware store on the main street of Marlinton.
Liberty Presbyterian Church - A historic church and cemetery established in the 1700s, located near Green Bank.
Jack Horner's Corner - A locally famous intersection where US-219 meets WV-66, the main turnoff to Snowshoe and Cass from the south.
Trailheads & Access Points
Greenbrier River Trail - Cass Terminus - The official northern starting point of the 78-mile trail, located right in the town of Cass.
Williams River Road (Forest Road 86) - This gravel road provides dozens of miles of direct access to the Williams River for fishing, camping, and sightseeing.
Gaudineer Knob Picnic Area - The developed day-use area that serves as the access point for the trails at the Gaudineer Scenic Area.
This list represents a deeper dive into the specific places that make up the fabric of daily life and recreation in Pocahontas County.
Of course. Pocahontas County is crisscrossed by an extensive network of U.S. Forest Service (USFS) roads that provide access to the vast Monongahela National Forest. These roads range from paved scenic byways to rugged, high-clearance 4WD tracks.
Important Note for Planning: As of the current date, Wednesday, July 30, 2025, most Forest Service roads should be open for summer access. However, conditions can change rapidly due to weather or maintenance. Many roads are also subject to seasonal closures in the winter and spring. Always check with the Monongahela National Forest, Marlinton-White Sulphur Ranger District for the most current road status and obtain a Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) before you go.
Here is a list of key Forest Service roads in Pocahontas County, categorized by their character and purpose.
Major Paved & Maintained Gravel Roads
These are the primary arteries through the National Forest, generally suitable for most passenger vehicles when clear of snow.
Highland Scenic Highway (WV 150 / FR 150)
Description: This is the crown jewel of the forest road system. It's a National Scenic Byway that runs for 43 miles, with 23 miles designated as a parkway. It offers spectacular overlooks, access to numerous trails, and connects the Cranberry Mountain Nature Center to US 219.
Surface: Paved.
Location: Runs north-south through the center of the county's highlands.
Williams River Road (FR 86 & FR 216)
Description: One of the most famous forest roads in the eastern U.S., it parallels the Williams River, a world-class trout stream. It provides access to numerous fishing spots, campgrounds (Day Run, Tea Creek), and hiking trails.
Surface: Well-maintained gravel for most of its length.
Location: Southern part of the county, west of the Highland Scenic Highway.
Cranberry Road (FR 76 & FR 102)
Description: FR 76 is the paved road that leads from WV 39/55 to the Cranberry Mountain Nature Center and the Cranberry Glades boardwalk. The road continues as FR 102 (gravel), providing access to the Cranberry River and the back side of the Cranberry Wilderness.
Surface: Paved (FR 76) and Gravel (FR 102).
Location: South-central Pocahontas County.
Key Connector & Recreation Access Roads
These are typically gravel roads that lead to specific, popular recreation areas.
Tea Creek Road (FR 82)
Description: This road turns off the Williams River Road (FR 86) and leads directly to the Tea Creek Campground, the main hub for the famous Tea Creek Mountain trail system.
Surface: Gravel.
Location: Off the Williams River Road.
Forest Road 44
Description: A key connector road that links the Highland Scenic Highway (near the Williams River Overlook) to the Williams River Road (FR 86). It allows for creating scenic driving loops.
Surface: Gravel.
Location: Connects the Highland Scenic Highway and Williams River.
Burner Mountain Road / Cass to Mower Tract (FR 55 & FR 250)
Description: This scenic road climbs from the Greenbrier River valley near Cass up to the high-elevation Mower Tract on Cheat Mountain. It offers incredible views and access to unique ecosystems.
Surface: Gravel.
Location: Starts near Cass and ascends Cheat Mountain.
Handley Road (FR 24)
Description: Provides primary access to the Handley Wildlife Management Area, a popular spot for hunting and fishing in its two ponds.
Surface: Gravel.
Location: South of Marlinton, off WV 92.
Scenic & More Remote Roads
These roads are often less traveled and may require a more capable vehicle.
Kennison Mountain / Cranberry Road (FR 51)
Description: A long, ridgetop road that travels along Kennison and Cranberry Mountains. It connects with multiple trails and offers a more remote backcountry driving experience.
Surface: Gravel / Dirt. Condition can vary.
Location: Runs north from the area near Beartown State Park.
Gaudineer Road (FR 27 & FR 209)
Description: FR 27 leads from US 250 to FR 209, which takes you directly to the Gaudineer Knob Picnic Area and the Gaudineer Scenic Area's virgin spruce forest.
Surface: Gravel.
Location: Northernmost part of the county, off US 250.
West Fork Road (FR 47)
Description: This road parallels a section of the West Fork of the Greenbrier River and provides access to the West Fork Trail, a scenic rail-trail.
Surface: Gravel.
Location: North of Durbin, accessible from US 250.
Laurel Run / Mine Road (FR 17)
Description: Travels from the Williams River area north towards the Slatyfork region, providing access to parts of the Tea Creek trail system and other remote areas.
Surface: Gravel / Primitive in sections.
Location: North of the Williams River.
Frosty Gap Road (FR 85)
Description: Connects the Greenbrier River valley near Clover Lick to the high country around Thorny Creek in Seneca State Forest.
Surface: Gravel.
Location: Central part of the county, east of Marlinton.
Excellent. This next list delves into more specific, less-traveled, and often more primitive Forest Service roads. These routes typically lead to specific trailheads, remote streams, or hunting areas and are best navigated by those with detailed maps and experience in backcountry travel.
CRITICAL ADVISORY: As of Wednesday, July 30, 2025, while summer conditions prevail, these secondary and primitive roads are far more likely to be affected by washouts, downed trees, or rough surfaces. Many of these roads require high-clearance, and often 4WD, vehicles. They are not suitable for standard passenger cars. It is imperative to consult the official Monongahela National Forest Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) and contact the ranger district office in Marlinton before attempting to travel on these roads.
Here are 12 more Forest Service roads for deep exploration of Pocahontas County.
Roads in the Northern District (Cass, Green Bank, Durbin Area)
FR 14 (Back Allegheny Mountain Road)
Description: A significant and scenic connector road running along Back Allegheny Mountain. It links the town of Cass to Seneca State Forest and eventually to US 219 south of Snowshoe. It provides access to numerous hiking trails and beautiful vistas.
Surface: Maintained Gravel.
Location: Runs between Cass and Seneca State Forest.
FR 251 (Sharps Knob Access)
Description: A spur road that climbs to the summit of Sharps Knob, just east of Cass. The road ends near a short trail to a fire tower site with panoramic views of the Greenbrier Valley and surrounding mountains.
Surface: Gravel/Dirt, can be steep.
Location: Off FR 55 (Burner Mountain Road) east of Cass.
FR 49
Description: A remote road that provides access to the upper reaches of the West Fork of the Greenbrier River and the West Fork Trail, north of the FR 47 access point.
Surface: Gravel/Primitive.
Location: North of Durbin, off US 250.
Roads in the Williams & Cranberry River Drainages
FR 108 (Dogway Road)
Description: A notoriously rugged road providing access to the Dogway Fork of the Cranberry River, a beautiful and remote trout stream. This is a classic destination for anglers and backpackers seeking solitude. High-clearance vehicle is essential.
Surface: Primitive/Rough.
Location: Off WV 150/39, south of the Cranberry Mountain Nature Center.
FR 99 (Bear Run Road)
Description: This road branches off the Williams River Road (FR 86) and provides access to the northern trailheads of the Tea Creek Mountain Trail System.
Surface: Gravel/Dirt.
Location: Off the Williams River Road, near Tea Creek Campground.
FR 101 (Little Laurel Road)
Description: A road branching off the Highland Scenic Highway that descends into the Cranberry River drainage. It provides access to the Lick Branch Trail and the northern part of the Cranberry Wilderness.
Surface: Gravel, can be steep with switchbacks.
Location: Off the Highland Scenic Highway (WV 150), north of the Cranberry Glades.
FR 81
Description: A dead-end spur road off the Williams River Road (FR 86) that leads to the start of the Hell for Certain Branch Trail, providing another access point into the backcountry.
Surface: Gravel.
Location: Branches off Williams River Road.
Roads in the Southern District (Marlinton, Hillsboro Area)
FR 300 (Jacox Road)
Description: A long connector road that runs through the National Forest lands between Hillsboro and the Droop Mountain area, providing access for hunting and dispersed camping.
Surface: Gravel.
Location: Between WV 39 and US 219, south of Mill Point.
FR 248 (Spice Run Road)
Description: This road provides one of the few access points to the boundary of the Spice Run Wilderness, a rugged and rarely visited area for experienced hikers.
Surface: Gravel/Dirt.
Location: North of Hillsboro, off WV 39.
FR 139 (Beaver Lick Road)
Description: Travels along the top of Beaver Lick Mountain, providing hunter access and connecting to a network of other primitive roads south of Marlinton.
Surface: Gravel/Dirt.
Location: South of Marlinton, east of US 219.
FR 943
Description: A spur road within the Handley Wildlife Management Area that leads to the second of the two ponds (Handley Pond), a popular local fishing spot.
Surface: Gravel/Dirt.
Location: Within the Handley WMA.
FR 298 (Brushy Mountain Road)
Description: A ridgetop road that provides access to the Brushy Mountain area of the National Forest, primarily used by hunters.
Surface: Primitive.
Location: Southeast of Marlinton.
Given your continued interest, this list moves into an expert level of detail, highlighting specific micro-locations, trails, and features that are often known only to locals, dedicated historians, and the most avid backcountry explorers.
A Note on Exploration: As of late July 2025, access should be at its peak. However, reaching many of these specific points requires detailed topographic maps (like the USGS 7.5-minute series), GPS, and often, a willingness to hike or drive on primitive paths. Their status is not always marked on common maps.
Here are more specific points of interest in Pocahontas County.
Specific Trails & Lookout Towers
Red Spruce Knob Trail
A short, accessible loop trail at an elevation over 4,700 feet, leading to a wooden observation deck. It's located off a spur road from the Highland Scenic Highway and showcases a classic boreal forest environment.
Ann Bailey Lookout Tower
The historic fire tower located within Watoga State Park. It's accessible via the Ann Bailey Trail and offers one of the most commanding panoramic views of the Greenbrier River Valley and the park itself.
Cowpasture Trail
A challenging trail within the Tea Creek network, prized by expert mountain bikers and hikers for its technical, rugged terrain and remote feeling.
Black Mountain Fireman's Trail
A steep, historic trail located in the southern part of the county near the former site of the Black Mountain fire tower, used by hunters and serious hikers.
Honey Creek Trail
A lesser-known trail in the Williams River watershed that follows Honey Creek, offering a peaceful and remote streamside hiking experience.
Named Geographic Micro-Features
Leatherbark Run
The small, yet significant, stream that flows directly through the historic logging town of Cass and alongside the railroad tracks, eventually emptying into the Greenbrier River.
Top of Allegheny (or Allegheny Summit)
The specific mountain pass on the Virginia-West Virginia border where US Route 250 crosses the Allegheny Front. It's the highest point on US 250 in West Virginia and offers beautiful views, especially in the fall.
Gibson Knob
A prominent knob just east of Marlinton. While on private land, it is a major feature of the local landscape and the subject of many photographs from town.
The "Big Spring"
The spring that serves as the primary water source for the town of Marlinton, located in a small park at the base of the hill on the east side of town. It is a fundamental, though often overlooked, piece of local infrastructure.
Stillhouse Hollow
A named hollow typical of the Appalachian landscape, located near the Handley WMA. Its name hints at a history of illicit moonshining operations in the area's past.
Historic & Community Micro-Sites
The CCC Statue at Watoga State Park
Located near the park's main administration building, this specific statue is a tribute to the men of the Civilian Conservation Corps who built most of the park's foundational infrastructure in the 1930s.
The "Upper" Swinging Bridge in Marlinton
While the Gay-Swinging Bridge near the library is well-known, there is a second, smaller pedestrian suspension bridge further upstream (north) in Marlinton that residents use to cross the Greenbrier River.
Frank Tannery Ruins
Located in the small community of Frank, just north of Durbin, these are the decaying industrial remains of a massive leather tannery that was a major employer in the early 20th century.
Ruckman Cemetery
A historic, rural cemetery near Mill Point that is representative of the many small, family and community burial grounds scattered throughout the county's hollows.
Specific Day-Use & Recreation Sites
Day Run Picnic Area
A designated USFS day-use area located directly on the Williams River Road (FR 86). It serves as a popular and accessible spot for anglers and families to have a picnic lunch by the river.
Falls of Hills Creek Picnic Area
The designated picnic area at the trailhead for the Falls of Hills Creek. It's a common starting point for the short but steep hike down to the three waterfalls.
Riverside Picnic Area (Seneca State Forest)
A quiet picnic spot located along the Greenbrier River within Seneca State Forest, separate from the main lake area, offering a more peaceful setting.
At this level of detail, the best guides become the official maps themselves and conversations with the people who call Pocahontas County home.
Of course. Pocahontas County is famously known as the "Birthplace of Rivers." Due to its position atop the Allegheny Mountains, water flows in all directions, forming the headwaters of eight different rivers. As of late July 2025, stream levels are typically ideal for fishing, kayaking, and hiking.
Here is a list of the significant streams, creeks, and rivers of Pocahontas County, organized by the major watershed they belong to.
The Greenbrier River System (Flowing South)
This is the dominant watershed in the county, with the main river serving as a central artery for recreation and communities.
Greenbrier River
The longest free-flowing river in the Allegheny Mountains. It defines the county's geography, is paralleled by the Greenbrier River Trail, and offers outstanding smallmouth bass and trout fishing, canoeing, and kayaking.
East Fork & West Fork Greenbrier River
These two rivers combine near the town of Durbin to form the main stem of the Greenbrier. The West Fork is followed by a scenic rail-trail.
Knapps Creek
A major tributary that flows through the heart of Marlinton before joining the Greenbrier. It is a large, popular, and heavily stocked trout stream.
Stony Creek
A significant creek that flows into the Greenbrier River just south of Cass.
Leatherbark Run
The iconic stream that runs through the historic logging town of Cass, flowing past the company houses and railroad depot.
Little River
A tributary of the West Fork of the Greenbrier, with headwaters near the Highland Scenic Highway.
The Gauley River System (Flowing West)
These are legendary, rugged mountain streams known for their wild character and world-class trout fishing.
Williams River
One of West Virginia's most renowned trout streams. It is followed for much of its length by the scenic Williams River Road (FR 86) and is a destination for anglers from across the country.
Cranberry River
A wild and remote river that flows through the heart of the Cranberry Wilderness. It is famous for its native brook trout and the special regulations that protect its fishery. Access is limited to hiking or gravel forest roads.
Tea Creek
A rugged, steep tributary of the Williams River. The creek and its surrounding mountains form the Tea Creek Recreation Area, a famous destination for challenging mountain biking and hiking.
Dogway Fork
A remote and difficult-to-access tributary of the Cranberry River, prized by anglers seeking a true wilderness fishing experience.
North Fork of the Cherry River
The headwaters of this major Gauley tributary are located in the southern part of Pocahontas County, draining the area around Black Mountain.
The Cheat River System (Flowing North)
This high-elevation system is characterized by its cold water and surrounding red spruce forests.
Shavers Fork of the Cheat River
The headwaters of this major river are located at over 4,800 feet on Cheat Mountain near Snowshoe Resort. In Pocahontas County, it is a cold, pristine stream that offers excellent trout fishing in a sub-alpine environment.
Big Run
A significant tributary of Shavers Fork, located in the remote forests of the northern part of the county.
The Elk River System (Flowing West)
Elk River
The headwaters of the iconic Elk River are located in the Slatyfork area. In its upper reaches within Pocahontas County, it is a superb trout stream before it grows into the large river famous for whitewater further west.
Slaty Fork
A tributary that gives its name to the community of Slatyfork and joins the Elk River there.
The Tygart Valley River System (Flowing North)
Tygart Valley River
The headwaters of this major West Virginia river are located on the Randolph/Pocahontas county line, flowing north through the state's highest valleys.
Of course. After covering the major rivers, focusing on the smaller creeks and runs reveals the fine details of Pocahontas County's landscape. These are the streams that carve the hollows and valleys, feeding the larger waterways.
Given the time of year, late July 2025, these creeks will be running clear, making them perfect for exploring, rock-hopping, and fly-fishing for native brook trout in their headwaters.
Here is a list of notable creeks and runs in Pocahontas County, organized by the river system they flow into.
Creeks of the Greenbrier River Watershed
Locust Creek
Tributary of: Greenbrier River
Significance: This picturesque creek is famous for the historic Locust Creek Covered Bridge that spans its banks just outside of Hillsboro.
Thorny Creek
Tributary of: Greenbrier River
Significance: The primary stream flowing through Seneca State Forest. The park's cabins are nestled along its banks, and it feeds Seneca Lake.
Sitlington Creek
Tributary of: West Fork Greenbrier River
Significance: Runs near the community of Arbovale and the Green Bank Observatory. Parts of it are followed by Forest Road 317, providing access to the surrounding National Forest.
Swago Creek
Tributary of: Greenbrier River
Significance: A large creek that enters the Greenbrier south of Marlinton. The Swago Recreation Area is located within its watershed.
Deer Creek
Tributary of: Greenbrier River
Significance: A well-known trout stream that flows into the Greenbrier River near the town of Cass.
Beaver Creek
Tributary of: Greenbrier River
Significance: Flows past the Pearl S. Buck Birthplace in Hillsboro, adding to the pastoral scenery of the Little Levels valley.
Creeks of the Williams River Watershed
Tea Creek
Tributary of: Williams River
Significance: The legendary, boulder-strewn creek that gives its name to the Tea Creek Recreation Area. It is synonymous with rugged trails and dense, beautiful forests.
Hell for Certain Branch
Tributary of: Williams River
Significance: Known for its evocative name and the trail that follows it. A classic example of remote Appalachian geography and folklore.
Honey Creek
Tributary of: Williams River
Significance: A lesser-traveled stream with a trail following it, offering a more peaceful hiking experience than the popular Tea Creek area.
Sugar Creek
Tributary of: Williams River
Significance: A tributary known for its excellent water quality and as a habitat for native brook trout.
Creeks of the Cranberry River Watershed
Charles Creek
Tributary of: Cranberry River
Significance: Located deep within the Cranberry Wilderness, the Charles Creek backcountry shelter is situated along its banks, making it a key landmark for backpackers.
Lick Branch
Tributary of: Cranberry River
Significance: A small stream in the Cranberry backcountry with a trail named after it, providing access from the Highland Scenic Highway area down to the river.
Creeks of the Shavers Fork Watershed
Lamothe Run
Tributary of: Shavers Fork
Significance: A small, high-elevation stream in the Mower Tract area on Cheat Mountain, representative of the unique headwaters environment.
Red Run
Tributary of: Shavers Fork
Significance: A stream whose dark, tannin-stained water is characteristic of waterways originating in high-altitude spruce and peat bog environments.
Creeks of the Elk River Watershed
Big Spring Fork
Tributary of: Elk River
Significance: One of the two main branches that form the headwaters of the Elk River. It is a pristine, cold stream known for its healthy population of native brook trout.
Old Field Fork
Tributary of: Elk River
Significance: The other primary branch forming the Elk River's headwaters, originating in the high country near Snowshoe.
Excellent request. In the geography of Appalachia, a "knob" is a distinct, often rounded, hill or mountain peak. Pocahontas County is dotted with dozens of these knobs, ranging from famous, easily accessible tourist destinations to remote, forested summits known only to hunters and dedicated hikers.
As of late July 2025, the summer foliage is dense, creating lush green views from these high points. Trails should be clear and access at its peak.
Here is a list of notable knobs in Pocahontas County.
Major & Accessible Knobs
These are the most famous knobs in the county, featuring developed access and often, spectacular views or unique ecosystems.
Bald Knob
Elevation: 4,843 feet
Location/Access: The summit of Back Allegheny Mountain, reached via the Cass Scenic Railroad.
Notability: The third-highest point in West Virginia. The railroad journey culminates here at a clearing with a large observation deck, offering one of the most breathtaking views in the eastern United States, overlooking the Greenbrier Valley and the radio telescopes at Green Bank. The summit is a sub-alpine environment, home to a dense forest of Red Spruce.
Gaudineer Knob
Elevation: 4,432 feet
Location/Access: Northern Pocahontas County, easily reached by car from US Route 250 via Forest Roads 27 and 209.
Notability: This knob is famous for the adjacent Gaudineer Scenic Area, which preserves a stand of virgin red spruce forest. The knob itself has a picnic area and an overlook tower, making it a popular stop.
Red Spruce Knob
Elevation: 4,704 feet
Location/Access: Located directly off the Highland Scenic Highway (WV 150).
Notability: A premier example of a high-altitude boreal ecosystem. A short, accessible loop trail and boardwalk wind through a dense spruce forest to a wooden observation platform at the summit, offering 360-degree views.
Hiker's & Backcountry Knobs
These knobs typically require more effort to reach, often involving a hike or a drive on a gravel Forest Service road.
Sharp's Knob
Elevation: 4,406 feet
Location/Access: East of the town of Cass, accessible via FR 55 and FR 251.
Notability: The site of a former fire tower. A short trail leads to the summit, which provides an outstanding alternative view of the Greenbrier Valley, Cass, and Bald Knob across the valley.
Paddy Knob
Elevation: 4,477 feet
Location/Access: On the absolute eastern edge of Pocahontas County, sitting directly on the West Virginia-Virginia state line.
Notability: A remote peak sought out by peak-baggers and explorers of the George Washington National Forest. Reaching it requires navigating a network of Forest Service roads from the Virginia side or a long trek from within West Virginia.
Kennison Knob
Elevation: 4,445 feet
Location/Access: The highest point on Kennison Mountain, in the southern part of the county near the Cranberry Wilderness.
Notability: A destination for hikers on the Kennison Mountain Trail, this forested summit represents the rugged character of the southern Monongahela National Forest.
Prominent Local & Geographic Knobs
These knobs are key features on topographic maps and are well-known landmarks to locals, though they may not have official trails or recreational facilities.
Gibson Knob
Elevation: 3,845 feet
Location/Access: The prominent peak rising directly east of the county seat, Marlinton.
Notability: While on private property, this knob is the defining feature of Marlinton's eastern skyline and is a crucial part of the town's landscape and identity.
Mace Knob
Elevation: 4,688 feet
Location/Access: A high peak on Cheat Mountain in the northern part of the county.
Notability: One of the many high peaks that make up the formidable Cheat Mountain range, contributing to the area's reputation for deep snow and cold temperatures.
Briery Knob
Elevation: 4,524 feet
Location/Access: North of Snowshoe Resort, part of the same high-altitude mountain complex.
Notability: An important geographic feature in a part of the county known for its elevation and ski resorts.
Jacox Knob
Elevation: 4,147 feet
Location/Access: Southern Pocahontas County, giving its name to Jacox Road (FR 300).
Notability: A landmark for hunters and those traveling the backroads of the National Forest between Hillsboro and Droop Mountain.
Of course. This is a wonderful and very specific request. In Appalachian culture and geography, a "hollow" (often pronounced "holler") is more than just a valley; it's a fundamental unit of the landscape, typically a narrow cove or glen with a stream, and often associated with the families who first settled there. The names of hollows are a living map of the county's history, folklore, and nature.
Given that it is late July 2025, these hollows are at their most lush and secluded, deep green with the sounds of insects and running water. Many are private property, while others are accessible via public roads and trails.
Here is a representative list of hollows in Pocahontas County, showcasing the origins of their names.
Hollows of Folklore, Flora, & Fauna
These names often reflect the natural environment or local legends and activities.
Stillhouse Hollow
General Location: This name appears in several locations, a common one being in the backcountry near the Williams River.
Significance: A name like this is almost certainly a direct reference to the historical location of an illicit distillery, or "still," used for making moonshine. These operations were hidden deep in remote hollows to evade revenuers.
Bear Wallow Hollow
General Location: Various locations throughout the county's extensive forests.
Significance: Named for the depressions or muddy areas where the large local black bear population would "wallow" to cool off or remove pests. It points to a place with a historically high concentration of wildlife.
Laurel Hollow
General Location: A common name found throughout the county, particularly in the National Forest lands.
Significance: Named for the dense thickets of Mountain Laurel (Kalmia latifolia) or Great Rhododendron (Rhododendron maximum) that grow in the acidic soil of these valleys. These thickets are sometimes called "laurel hells" for how difficult they are to pass through.
Possum Hollow
General Location: Near Hillsboro.
Significance: A classic Appalachian place name, simply referring to the abundance of a specific local animal, the opossum. These names reflect an intimate connection to the surrounding ecosystem.
Hollows of Family & Settlement
These hollows carry the names of the pioneering families who cleared the land and built their homesteads within them.
Sharp Hollow
General Location: Near the community of Frost in the "Little Levels" valley.
Significance: Named for the Sharp family, who were among the earliest and most prominent settlers in this part of the county. The name connects to other local landmarks like Sharp's Knob.
McNeel Hollow
General Location: Near Mill Point and Hillsboro.
Significance: Named for the McNeel family, who were historically significant landowners and operators of the McNeel Mill, the stone ruins of which are now a historic site.
Beverage Hollow
General Location: Eastern part of the county, near the Virginia line.
Significance: Named for the Beverage family, another name deeply rooted in the history of the Allegheny Highlands of West Virginia and Virginia.
Hollows of Industry & Resources
These names point to the way people used the land for their livelihood.
Sugar Camp Hollow
General Location: Near the Greenbrier River, north of Marlinton.
Significance: Indicates a place where maple trees were abundant and tapped for producing maple syrup and sugar. A "sugar camp" was the site of this seasonal operation.
Tannery Hollow
General Location: Near the town of Frank in the northern part of the county.
Significance: This name directly references the leather tanning industry. Frank was home to a massive tannery in the early 20th century, and smaller operations existed throughout the county, using the bark from hemlock and oak trees.
Lick Hollow
General Location: Near Droop Mountain.
Significance: Named for a natural salt or mineral lick. These spots were vital, attracting wildlife like deer, which made them crucial hunting grounds for Native Americans and early settlers alike. They were also used for grazing livestock.
Jericho Draft
General Location: Near Frost, running down to the Greenbrier River.
Significance: In this region, "draft" is another word for a hollow with a stream. This one carries a biblical name, a common naming practice among early Protestant settlers in Appalachia.
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