White Top

White Top is a mountain summit in Randolph County that rises to about 1,245 meters (4,085 feet) within the Cheat Mountain range. The peak offers views of the surrounding West Virginia landscape and contains remains of a historic fort site protected by the National Register.

The site was used by Native Americans and later by early American settlers and military forces who valued its elevated position for defense. Its long history of occupation and use eventually led to its designation on the National Register of Historic Places.

Artifacts found here show that both Native Americans and early settlers lived and used this hilltop location. The physical remains tell the story of two different populations inhabiting this mountain area.

Visitors can reach the site through established hiking trails that are clearly marked from the valley area. The best visiting conditions occur during warmer months when the trails are dry and easier to navigate.

The site preserves rare remains of defensive structures built using techniques predating modern fortress design. These early fortifications reveal how frontier communities approached military construction in mountainous terrain.

Location: Randolph County

Elevation above the sea: 1,245 m

Part of: Cheat Mountain

GPS coordinates: 38.62440,-79.87670

Latest update: December 12, 2025 07:57