Monongahela National Forest

Monongahela National Forest is a vast woodland spanning West Virginia's varied terrain with rivers and mountains. The landscape transitions from river valleys to ridges reaching roughly 4,000 feet (1,200 meters) in elevation.

The forest received protected status in 1915 after heavy logging had stripped much of the region's resources. This protection marked the beginning of a long process to restore the forest and allow ecosystems to recover.

The forest takes its name from the Monongahela River that runs through the region and has shaped local identity for centuries. The land holds traces of communities who built their lives around forestry and land stewardship.

The forest offers over 1,200 kilometers of trails at various difficulty levels along with designated areas for camping, fishing, and wildlife watching. Plan your visit based on the season, as weather and trail conditions vary significantly throughout the year.

Cranberry Glades contains rare wetlands with plants typically found in much colder northern regions. A specialized boardwalk allows visitors to explore this botanical area while protecting the fragile ecosystem beneath their feet.

Location: West Virginia

Elevation above the sea: 1,191 m

Operator: United States Forest Service

Website: https://fs.usda.gov/mnf

GPS coordinates: 38.92920,-79.84780

Latest update: December 6, 2025 22:08